Peninsula School of Dance: Award-Winning Dance Education on the Mornington Peninsula
Looking for the best dance school in Rosebud or Frankston? Peninsula School of Dance stands as the Peninsula’s leading choice for high-quality, inclusive and award-winning dance education.
A Legacy of Excellence Since 1961
For more than 60 years, Peninsula School of Dance has been a cultural cornerstone of the Mornington Peninsula. Founded in Rosebud in 1961 by Sandra Allan OAM, the studio began with just a handful of students, a pianist and a piano funded by the local community. Miss Allan created a legacy of strong classical ballet training and a love of dance that influenced generations of young people, including notable figures such as Jason Coleman.
In 2006, Director Melanie Gard took the helm, moving the studio from the Rosebud Memorial Hall into purpose-built facilities and expanding the program offerings while maintaining the high standards and nurturing environment that have defined PSD since its inception. With studios now in both Rosebud and Frankston, PSD continues to provide exceptional training across classical ballet, jazz, tap, contemporary, hip hop, and musical theatre.
A Studio Built to Last
Peninsula School of Dance is not only a leader in dance education but also a well-established and future-focused business. With a history that spans more than six decades, the studio has continually adapted to meet the evolving needs of students, families and the broader community. Under the long-standing leadership of Director Melanie Gard, a nationally recognised voice in dance education and Chair of the Dance Arts Alliance, PSD has helped shape best-practice standards in child safety, inclusion and governance across the performing arts sector.
The studio’s alumni are represented in full-time dance institutions, tertiary performing arts programs and the broader creative industries, with many going on to become teachers, choreographers and arts leaders. Peninsula School of Dance has proudly maintained a 100 percent pass rate in all Cecchetti ballet examinations, with every student receiving a mark of Commended or higher, a testament to the high quality of its technical instruction.
Through certified Rhythm Works programs and strong NDIS partnerships, the inclusive approach at PSD allows students of all abilities to participate and thrive. The DanceStep leadership program continues to equip senior students with teaching skills, workplace readiness and real career pathways, with many graduates now part of the teaching team.
Peninsula School of Dance’s contribution extends well beyond the studio. From school fetes to local festivals and community fundraisers, PSD performs regularly throughout the Mornington Peninsula, helping to strengthen cultural engagement across the region. As the studio prepares to celebrate its 65th anniversary, Peninsula School of Dance stands as a secure, adaptable and future-ready organisation, built to inspire the next generation of dancers and creative leaders for decades to come.
Transforming Lives Through Dance
Peninsula School of Dance is more than a place to learn steps and technique. It is a dynamic, welcoming community where students of all ages and abilities are empowered to reach their full potential. Families choose PSD for its nurturing and non-competitive culture, its highly professional teaching team and its emphasis on developing resilience, creativity and confidence alongside strong technical skills.
Students can begin their journey in our Petite Dancers preschool program and progress through a range of dance styles and pathways tailored to their goals, whether dancing recreationally for fun or preparing for a professional career. Out-of-class activities including holiday intensives, dance camps, industry workshops and musical theatre productions provide rich opportunities for growth, connection and leadership.
Why Peninsula School of Dance is the Peninsula’s Leading Choice
PSD offers a rare combination of elite training, a deep commitment to inclusivity and a focus on community connection. Under Melanie Gard’s leadership the studio has become nationally recognised for merging high standards with accessibility, ensuring that every student has the chance to experience the transformative power of dance. Its alumni, exam results and leadership initiatives are proof of a studio where excellence and empathy go hand in hand.
Enrol Now
Peninsula School of Dance is now enrolling for Rosebud and Frankston studio classes. If you are looking for a dance school that combines elite training, industry leadership and deep community roots, PSD offers a place where your child can thrive.
Visit www.peninsuladance.com.au to book a trial class or explore the full program range. https://peninsuladance.com.au/free-trial-day/
Peninsula School of Dance empowers resilient, creative and empathetic individuals through transformative dance education and stands ready to serve the Mornington Peninsula for another 65 years and beyond.