Imagine coming to a high school musical and forgetting you were at a school. That’s the reality at The McDonald College, Sydney’s leading performance-centred K-12 school. A recent production of “A Chorus Line” left audience members speechless, with one commenting, “I forgot I was at a school performance. The student talent and the level of production are simply phenomenal.”
This exceptional level of talent is a product of College’s unique approach to education. Academic classes and up to two hours of daily training in students’ chosen disciplines such as ballet, dance, music, musical theatre, acting or technical production go hand in hand. The daily immersion in students’ passion cultivates exceptional skills and a deep understanding of the performing arts.
But The McDonald College goes beyond artistic excellence. It offers a strong academic foundation and a nurturing environment for young performers, many of whom board at the on-site facility. Here, students receive not just academic and wellbeing support. They also receive guidance and care from dedicated staff like Rebecca Rogers, Head of Boarding.
“We take pride in treating each other with kindness and tolerance,” says Rogers. “It’s a small boarding house with a family feel, and the support the students show each other, whether they’re aspiring ballerinas or musicians, is truly special.”
This supportive community fosters not just artistic student talent but also essential life skills. Boarders learn independence, self-care, effective time management, and the importance of teamwork. They develop a strong work ethic and the resilience needed to navigate the demanding world of performance.
The McDonald College experience doesn’t end on stage. The school actively encourages students to pursue professional opportunities, facilitating external auditions and providing guidance throughout the process. Many graduates go on to prestigious performing arts institutions like NIDA, WAAPA, or The Royal Ballet School in London, while others choose completely unrelated paths, empowered by the skills and confidence gained at The McDonald College.
The McDonald College promotes both academic achievement and artistic passion. Here, students don’t just learn the arts; they live, breathe, and excel in them, leaving audiences in awe with every performance.
Visit us at our next Open Day www.mcdonald.nsw.edu.au/apply/open-days.