The Studio of Performing Arts (SOPA) is Australia’s only dance + circus school, that is a registered provider of Outside School Hours Care. Our Philosophy “Growing through the Arts”, is based on developing a child’s voice, self-esteem, and self- awareness, improving their self-efficacy and their community around them. SOPA-OSHC is a family-based small business, led by Director and Approved Provider Danielle Lennon. Danielle, is an accredited school teacher with much experience at local Springfield schools, she is completing her Masters of Education: Guidance & Counselling.

the SOPA-OSHC team of educators show a strong commitment towards positive mental and physical health. During the 2020 Covid Lockdown, SOPA-OSHC became a Beyond Blue: Be You learning community. This team of inspiring educators becomes more like an extension of your family than ‘just’ a childcare. SOPA Educators are passionate about their role within the Greater Springfield community, in helping children and families grow through the arts. Emotionally and physically they are building the stars of our future.

Children bring so much creative thinking and imagination to their play. Affordance theory is all about children developing ‘their own’ uses of loose parts. What was once a block, can become a horse, part of a tower or a seahorse. SOPA educators, model creative play, getting on the floor, building and developing new games, to then discreetly remove themselves and allow the child’s imagination to take the lead.

SOPA-OSHC allows children the time to develop their interests and build friendship groups outside of their school cohort. As children play, they are navigating social intelligence,negotiating new friendships and creating ways of operating.Children’s voices are important and their ability to speak-up and their confidence in being heard is fostered by SOPA educators who value this life-skill. Technical devices, including those for educators, are only used during Homework Hub,meaning that your child feels valued, nurtured and supported.You can be assured that your child will LOVE SOPA-OSHC!

Children deserve an environment where they are able to test,learn and experience. Risk assessment is an integral part of adult life and children are encouraged to embrace safe-risk taking. SOPA-OSHC is a place for children to connect with each other and learn how to strengthen and use their bodies.Whether it is in a dance or gymnastics class, or during a morning nature walk, children relish their unique environment and get stronger and more confident each day.

Active Play is important as a life-skill and whether it is an educator teaching a child to juggle, or competing in a balancing competition. SOPA-OSHC educators demonstrate that movement is a skill for life. Children are encouraged to move and challenged to change the way their mind and body interacts with others as well as self.

Did you know that there are many ways a child can develop upper body strength? In SOPA-OSHC gymnastics lessons children spend half of their lesson on their hands. Children love the activities and play during ASC lessons and Vacation Care workshops. They learn to be willing to take risks within a supportive environment that is focused on their physical and mental well-being.