I have been with Radiance for over a year and a half now, when I first decided to move studios, I was worried about the transition from RAD to ATOD syllabuses. Since I joined during the middle of the year, I still wanted to complete the dance exams for that year, to stay on track with my goal of completing the highest advanced levels before grade 12 in 2024. The teachers guided me through the process and really helped me to do well in my ballet and jazz exams. They were kind and really encouraging throughout this. The teachers offered a really fun and effective way of learning the syllabus, using anatomical descriptions of how our bodies move, using constructive criticism on corrections and having clear structures for the classes to know what we should be prepared for, for the following class. The students and staff at radiance have really encouraged my passion in dance and welcomed me into the studio. I really look forward to the next few years and new opportunities at Radiance. 

Although at first I was nervous about starting at a new studio after 8 years at my previous dance school, I found that as soon as I arrived at my first class, everyone was welcoming and open to including me into the groups.  I felt that I could be myself and people were accepting of that and were very friendly and kind.  After a few weeks, I felt like I had been part of this dance family for a long time, I have made many new friends here.  The happy and fun environment of Radiance has allowed me to enjoy myself and have fun with peers. It has helped me become more confident in my dancing and challenge myself more.

Being a new boarder in Toowoomba this year, I have had many difficult moments settling in but when I go to class each week, I feel that I am cared for and encouraged by everyone. I look forward to my classes every week, it is the highlight of my week!  I really love working with my teachers and my friends who have taught me so much. I am finding the Certificate III very enjoyable and rewarding because of the support I am getting from my teachers and peers in the Cert class. An important aspect I've found at Radiance is that they strive to help young people build strong teamwork skills and teach people to be accepting of everyone's individuality. 

I kept dancing in year 11 to finish off my 10^th year with the studio, however, year 11 was a lot harder than I expected and dance ended up being a big stress reliever for me that year. I came to the realisation that I needed to continue dance for some physical activity during year 12 and a mental escape from the workload. The teachers and other students have been so supportive this year, plus it was amazing having friends in year 12 from different schools. Melissa, Erin, Kiera and I have shared a lot of stories, moments and tears this year, which honestly, I don’t think I would have survived year 12 without.

Labore et Honore UniSQ Proxime Accessit Award. This is the award Lofty presents to the runner-up Dux of the year 2022

Dance has been an essential part of my life this year and a crucial escape from the stress of school and grade 12. I always meant to continue dancing this year for the sheer joy of it, but I’ve also been able to maintain friendships outside of school while dancing for fitness. Often, dance has been a great way for me to clear my head and take a step back from the trials of grade 12. Though I have had to juggle assignments and revision with multiple dance classes a week, I wouldn’t have missed a second if it. Without the support of my friends and teachers at dance, I’m not sure I would have made it.

Dux of St Ursulas 2022 

My name is Kiera Louise Jahnke, and I am 18 years old. I really love creating and anything to do with the arts. I love visual art, drama, and dancing! I dance with Radiance Academy Toowoomba, and this year marks my 4th year with them! I have made friendships that will last a lifetime, found my confidence, my passion for teaching and performing, my career, and my 2nd family💕 I do a variety of styles including ballet, pointe, jazz, hip hop, musical theatre, character, lyrical, and am also part of the performance and Cert team. 

2022 was definitely a challenge for me. Especially while trying to balance year 12, dance, a cert, work, and my health. But I have loved every single second. Dance was such a massive help and was a place I could enjoy myself. A place where I felt loved, accepted, and joyful. 

Last year I completed my cert III in dance, and now am currently completing my cert IV in dance. I am so glad that I decided to do these courses, especially in senior schooling as it aided in gaining QCE points. I have enjoyed being able to teach dance at both my high school and at the Radiance studio. I have also learnt so much and have grown as a dancer both in my technique and theory knowledge. It has also helped me grow as a person and taught me important life skills such as teamwork, resilience, time management and many more. 

Next year I have the honour of continuing my dance training with QUT in a Bachelor of Fine Arts in dance. I hope to complete my degree and become a successful dance teacher or a performer. I will never forget what the Radiance family has done for me and taught me over the years. I couldn't have done it without them and I'm going to miss them so much.