Academy of Creative Arts (ACA)
Program of Excellence | Years 7–12
About the Program
The Academy of Creative Arts (ACA) is James Nash State High School’s co-curricular Arts Program of Excellence for students in Years 7–12. Designed for passionate and dedicated learners, ACA offers specialised ensemble opportunities across Drama, Dance, Music, and Visual Art.
The program extends learning beyond the classroom, fostering creativity, collaboration, and technical skill development. Students take part in regular rehearsals, workshops, and showcases, with opportunities to perform and exhibit at community events, competitions, and galleries throughout the year.
A biennial major production is held for students in Years 8–12, providing a large-scale, professional performance experience.
Year 6 students applying for enrolment at James Nash can also engage through the Junior ACA (JACA) Transition Workshop, leading into the Year 7 Junior Acting and Movement (JAAM) ensemble.
Why Arts Education Matters
Engagement in the arts enriches students’ academic and personal development. Research shows that arts education:
Enhances creativity, innovation, and critical thinking
Builds emotional intelligence, empathy, and self-awareness
Improves academic achievement, literacy, and focus
Promotes collaboration, adaptability, and resilience
Offers an outlet for personal expression and identity development
ACA empowers students to become confident, reflective, and articulate individuals—skills that are essential in all career pathways.
What Will Students Learn?
ACA supports students to:
Develop technical and expressive skills in their chosen artform
Enhance creative thinking and problem-solving abilities
Build confidence and communication skills
Learn the discipline of rehearsal and project commitment
Collaborate with peers across year levels and disciplines
Explore pathways within the creative industries
Student Outcomes
Students participating in ACA will:
Present their work through performances, exhibitions, and competitions
Contribute to school and community events
Build skills in a supportive, high-expectation environment
Take part in the biennial ACA Production (Years 8–12)
Develop a strong creative portfolio for future education or careers
Leadership Opportunities
ACA encourages students to grow as creative leaders and contributors. Opportunities include:
Mentoring younger students and supporting junior ensembles
Leading collaborative projects, rehearsals, or group work
Representing ACA at events or assisting in production leadership
Applying for Creative Arts School Captain in Year 12
These roles build confidence, communication, and project management skills valuable for both school and future pathways.
Eligibility & Commitment
ACA is open to all students in Years 7–12 who have an interest or background in the arts. Students in Years 9–12 must be enrolled in an Arts subject as part of their school timetable.
Entry into ACA ensembles requires an application or audition process.
Students must demonstrate:
A high level of dedication, teamwork, and commitment
Willingness to rehearse and perform outside school hours
A commitment to creative growth and personal responsibility
Alignment with school-wide behaviour and effort expectations