DANCE FOUNDATIONS 8
Through daily warm-ups, team-building activities, and choreography exploration, this course introduces students to basic dance technique and performance skills using the elements of movement. With a progressive approach, students can expect to improve strength, flexibility, stamina, balance, and coordination, while also building confidence and developing trust within the group.
Students will work in pairs, small groups, and as a full class in preparation for the Year End Dance Recital. No prior experience or prerequisites are required.
Students with extensive dance training may contact the dance teacher and submit videos for assessment. If the student meets the requirements, placement in Dance Company 9 may be offered. Please see the Dance Company 9 course description below for more information.
CLICK HERE for a look at a grade 8/9 performance
CLICK HERE for a look at a warm up session during the pandemic
MUSICAL THEATRE DANCE 8 (Yes for 2026/7!)
Musical Theatre Dance is a 4-credit course offered during years when Burnaby South produces a large musical, which occurs every second year. No prior experience or prerequisite is required.
Students in this course learn multiple dance numbers as part of a large ensemble of dancers and actors. Dancers work closely with actors, musicians, and production students as they prepare for the final school musical, which typically runs in March.
Sessions take place after school at least twice a week. This course also qualifies toward the scholarship requirement.
WORLD DANCE (Not offered 2026/7)
World Dance is a 4-credit after-school course open to students in Grades 9–12, with Grade 8 students welcome to participate as club members. No previous dance experience is required.
Students explore a variety of world dance styles, which may include Bhangra, Tahitian, Tinikling, Hawaiian, Broadway Jazz, Musical Theatre, and Māori Poi. Throughout the course, students learn dance technique, choreography, cultural history, and additional elements such as costuming and performance skills.
Students may be invited to perform at school and community events, including the Year End Dance Recital. This course is offered every other year.
CLICK HERE for a look at an after school world dance performance
CLICK HERE to look at a practice session in World Dance
DANCE COMPANY 9 (special permission only) 
Dance Company does not offer a Grade 8 level course. However, during the first two weeks of school, the teacher may identify Grade 8 students who would be better suited for a higher-level dance class. In these cases, qualified students may be invited to join Dance Company. Please note that this class includes students from Grades 9–12, and only a small number of Grade 8 students are typically selected.
All interested Grade 8 students should register for Dance Foundations 8 as usual; students invited into Dance Company will still receive a Foundations 8 credit.
Students with extensive dance training may also contact the dance teacher and submit dance videos for assessment. If the student is qualified, placement in Dance Company 9 may be offered. The teacher will ensure every student is placed in the most appropriate course.
If you believe you are a strong candidate, please contact: Christina.wilson@burnabyschools.ca
CLICK HERE to look at a Dance Company Modern group performance
CLICK HERE to look at a Dance Company Hip Hop group performance
Contact Christina.wilson@burnabyschools.ca for any further questions.