Curriculum in basic education in the circus arts

1. General information	6. Contents of basic syllabus education
2. Sorin Sirkus philosophy	7. Contents of advanced syllabus education
3. Sorin Sirkus offers	8. Assessment develops Sorin Sirkus
4. I want to join Sorin Sirkus	9. Cooperation
5. Contents of pre-primary education	10. Other activity

1. GENERAL INFORMATION

1.1 Sorin Sirkus (registered association)

Sorin Sirkus is an association, whose purpose is to make circus arts more known, and to promote, maintain and develop circus arts as an interest especially among children and young people.

Sorin Sirkus started off in 1985 as a club, which was a part of the Tampere City youth association. The circus established its own association in 1989. An executive committee consisting of a chairman and 6-8 regular members are responsible for the affairs of the association.

In 1993 Sorin Sirkus began providing basic education in the arts among the first institutions in Finland. The circus has about 250 pupils nowadays. There are four full-time teachers and on a weekly basis 10 part-time teachers. Sorin Sirkus also has two producers, a costume designer and a cleaner on a monthly salary. The premises of Sorin Sirkus are located in Nekala, Ahlmanintie 63

1.2 Basic Education in the Arts

Circus arts is one of the performing arts orientation choices of the basic education in the arts. The extra-curricular art education offers different art forms in its syllabus, the education is goal-oriented and progressing from one level to another and it is mainly directed at children and young people. It gives pupils a foundation to express themselves and the eligibility to apply for vocational, polytechnic and university studies of the chosen art form.

The aims of the education are based on the Act on the Basic Education in the Arts (633/98), which is based on the national core curriculum, which is then applied on a local level. The basic education in the arts in Sorin Sirkus is implemented in cooperation with the City of Tampere.

Physical education, art education, social and mental development, and the interdisciplinary nature of circus arts are well combined in the basic education of circus arts. The pupils of the basic education of circus arts get to know an international atmosphere through visiting teachers and performances.

2. SORIN SIRKUS PHILOSOPHY

2.1 Better people through art

Sorin Sirkus sows a seed in the green garden of life.
It helps the sprout to grow, and creates safety for all in a common environment.
When the time is ripe, the sprouts are trained as creative and colourful individuals.
The circus supports and fertilizes the demanding task of growing up.
It gives water and space for each flower, for them all to rise up towards the sun
and towards their individual brilliance.

2.2 Learning by doing

Sorin Sirkus emphasises learning by doing and experimenting. The pupil is encouraged towards creativity, openness and acting in a group. The pupil is guided to practise, perform and take care of the circus equipment. The pupil learns to take responsibility for him/herself and others. Trying and applying what has been previously learnt is a way of finding his/her own personal way of approaching circus arts. Asking questions and solving problems is an attempt to create something new. In Sorin Sirkus, multiculturality and internationality are seen as a richness, which develops the circus arts. The teaching is implemented through constructivist, social and behaviouristic learning conceptions.

2.3 ABC at Ahlmanintie

Education is provided according to the curriculum in individual and group lessons. An individual study plan will help in the attempt to meet the pupil´s own goals. The pupil chooses a discipline on the basis of his/her liking, talents and a recommendation by a teacher. The pupil´s development and progress in the studies are discussed together with the pupil and the parents.

Sorin Sirkus has its own facilities in Nekala, Tampere. The address is Ahlmanintie 63, 33800 Tampere, Finland. The four training halls have been renovated to be suitable to practise circus arts. In addition, a 13-metre-high circus centre of 1000m² was built in the spring of 2006, which enables the performing of different shows and spectacular aerial routines. Special care has been paid to the safety of the facilities and equipment.

3. SORIN SIRKUS OFFERS

The school year consists of 33 study weeks. One lesson hour (L) lasts 45 minutes.

Pre-primary education

Pre-primary education in Sorin Sirkus is meant for children under compulsory school age (4-6 years old).

General aims:

The pupil becomes acquainted with circus arts
The pupil learns to work in a group
The pupil learns to focus
The development of the pupil´s imagination and initiative is supported

1-3 years

1 time = 60 min/week

44 L/year

3.2 Basic syllabus

The basic syllabus contains 500 lessons. The studies are composed of 10 study modules, which are divided into basic studies and workshop studies. In Sorin Sirkus the basic syllabus can be completed either in three or four years or in accordance with an individual study plan. The focus group is children and young people of compulsory school age.

General aims:

The pupil becomes acquainted with the different areas of circus arts and trains them in a persistent manner
The pupil learns to work in a group
The pupil learns to understand and make use of the interdisciplinary nature of circus arts
The pupil´s performing skills develop

“The happy atmosphere and joy of doing in Sorin Sirkus meets you already at the door” / mother of a pupil

4-year path 500 lessons
1st year	1 time = 2 L/week	66 L
2nd year	1 time = 2 L/week	66 L
3rd year	2 times= 4 L/week	132 L
4th year	3 times= 6 L/week	198 L
In addition to weekly lessons, productions 38 L

3-year path500 lessons
1st year	2times = 4 L/week	132 L
2nd year	2 times = 4 L/week	132 L
3rd year	3 times = 6 L/week	198 L
In addition to weekly lessons, productions 38 L

3.3 Advanced syllabus

The advanced syllabus contains 1300 lessons. The syllabus is composed of basic studies, during which different areas of circus are examined diversely, and advanced studies, in the beginning of which a major subject and possible minor subjects are chosen. The advanced syllabus is completed in four years. Studying may be started at the age of 9.

General aims:

The pupil learns to understand circus arts and its cultural meaning
The pupil learns self-initiative, responsibility and ability to work in a group
The pupil learns to practise in a persistent manner
The pupil learns to perform and find his/her stage persona

Basic studies 500 L
1st year	3 times = 6 L/week	198 L
2nd year	4 times= 8 L/week	264 L
In addition to weekly lessons, productions 38 L

Advanced studies 800 L
3rd year	5 times=10 L/week +1 L/week	363 L
4th year	6 times=12 L/week	396 L
In addition to weekly lessons, productions 38 L

Fina projects

Basic studies

At the end of the studies the pupil prepares a performance either alone or in a group under the teacher´s guidance. The pupil assesses his/her own work and receives written feedback.

Advanced studies

At the end of the studies the pupil prepares a final project. The performance can be made either alone or in a group. The final project contains a written plan and report of the work. The pupil assesses his/her own work according to the goals he/she has set. The pupil receives both an oral and a written assessment.

4.. HALUAN SORIN SIRKUKSEEN

4. I WANT TO JOIN SORIN SIRKUS

4.1 Pupil admission

The training groups of Sorin Sirkus are filled purposefully and within possibilities. The pupil is expected to have learning potential.

The pupils of Pre-primary education and Basic syllabus are selected purposefully and by drafting. The pupils who have participated in the summer camp are given priority when selecting new pupils. Registering takes place on the premises of Sorin Sirkus, or by e-mail on a day that is notified beforehand.

The pupil is elected as an Advanced syllabus pupil. The motivation of the pupil and the facility for long-term studies are determined by discussions. The pupils who have completed the basic syllabus are given priority. Teacher´s statement of the level of skills is taken into account. The wishes and goals of the pupil are discussed with the teacher, the pupil and the guardian of the pupil.
Applicants without prior experience are discussed case-specifically.

The teachers of the advanced syllabus make the decision on pupil admission.

4.2 Admission of scholarship pupils

Scholarship pupil positions are applied for in writing from the executive committee of Sorin Sirkus. The application must contain a proof of income and an account of the financial state of the family. The committee discusses the applications case-specifically. This arrangement makes it possible, that financial matters are not a hindrance to studying at Sorin Sirkus.

5. CONTENTS OF PRE-PRIMARY EDUCATION

	Aim	Core contents
Circus games	the pupil: - learns the basics of physical awareness - develops coordination - has fun	- practising balance and coordination with the help of circus games
Circus skills	the pupil: -tries out different areas of circus arts - gets acquainted with different aspects of a circus act	- doing exercises that support different areas of circus arts - getting to know the equipment and learning their names - having make-up done - trying out costumes - learning to move with music
Group work	the pupil: - learns to take other members of the group into account	- doing exercises of being in a group
Expressive skills	- the pupil has the courage to be the centre of attention in the group - preparing a circus act in the group under the guidance of the teacher	- encouraging the pupil to be centre of attention - practising circus tricks in order and performing them - playing games that encourage the pupil´s expressive skills
Concentration	the pupil: - learns to focus on the task at hand - learns to pay attention to instructions	- giving clear instructions - directing the pupil´s concentration on the task at hand

6. CONTENTS OF BASIC SYLLABUS EDUCATION

Study module	500 L	When	Goal	Core contents
1. Technique	230	continuously	the pupil: -gets acquainted with different circus acts - learns the motor skills necessary in circus tricks - learns safety	-experimenting with different areas of circus arts and learning necessary skills - learning safe practising
2. Physical awareness	50	continuously	the pupil learns: - physical awareness and coordination - taking care of his/her body - to trust him/herself and others - to get to know and respect his/her own body	- doing coordination exercises - doing strength-, stretching and relaxation exercises - doing group and trust exercises - getting to know the possibilities of his/her own physique through circus
3. Circus games	40		the pupil: - gets to know the group, equipment and premises - learns coordination - learns concentration - has fun	- playing different games of warming up, coordination, balance, expression and circus
4. Performing	25	*4-year path* 1-3 class *3-year path* 1-2 class	the pupil: - has the courage to perform in front of an audience- learns self-expression	- doing different expressive exercises - experimenting with performing
5. Knowledge of circus arts	15	continuously	the pupil: - gets to know the basic concepts of circus - views circus performances	-viewing different circus performances - learning the names of circus equipment and acts
6. Diversity of circus art	15	continuously	the pupil: - gets to know the different aspects of a circus performance	-practising make-up - designing a costume - choosing music
7. Circus arts in the history and today	10	final year	the pupil: - gets acquainted with circus of the history and the modern day	- studying the history and modern day of circus arts
8. Preparing a performance	60	every spring	the pupil: - prepares a circus act in the chosen orientation under the teacher´s guidance, and performs it in the annual spring show - practises being a part of a work team	-preparing a solo act or an ensemble.
9. Practising performing	25	continuously	the pupil: - prepares small acts in the chosen orientation and performs them	- encouraging the pupil to plan and practise acts on their own
10. Preparing a performance independently	30	spring of final year	the pupil - prepares a circus act independently or in a group in the chosen orientation	- choosing a skill, which is practised all spring - planning and preparing a circus act

7. CONTENTS OF ADVANCED SYLLABUS EDUCATION

7.1 Basic studies

Practising continuously	500 L	Stress	Goal	Core contents
Technique	214	- acrobatics - balance - juggling	the pupil learns: - the basic techniques of different circus acts - to value the beauty of different circus acts - purity of movement, aesthetics, and safety	- practising techniques of different circus acts persistently - getting to know different acts as diversely as possible - getting to know the safety aspects of circus training
Physical awareness	72	- caring and maintaining the body	the pupil learns: - the meaning of stretching and strength exercises - to get to know and respect his/her own body - to trust him/herself and others	- doing strength exercises, stretching and relaxing exercises - emphasising the pupil´s positive and natural relationship with his/her own body - doing trust exercises and exercises that develop coordination and rhythmic skills - getting to know the possibilities of his/her own body through music and dance
Knowledge of circus arts	65	- viewing performances - circus knowledge - portfolio	the pupil learns: - circus knowledge and history of circus - the meaning of cooperation between different art forms - to make a portfolio	- getting to know the operation of a performing circus, viewing shows and learning to analyse and interpret what has been experienced - developing circus knowledge, know-how and terminology - getting to know the history of circus and circus arts - following up on their own learning with the help of a portfolio
Performing	112	-performance experiment	the pupil learns: - performing skills - to enjoy performing	- developing performing skills as an individual and a group through improvisation and games -encouraging the pupil to perform - preparing different acts and getting performing experience - getting to know the creation of a circus performance as a whole
Final project spring of 2nd year	37		the pupil: - prepares a circus act under the teacher´s guidance	- planning an act - practising a solo or an ensemble - practising self-assessment

“Considering the fact that Sorin Sirkus is a youth circus, the technical skills are fantastic!” / Helsingin Sanomat

7.2 Advanced studies

Practising continuously	800 L	Stress	Goal	Core contentes
Technique	490	- finding the chosen orientation	the pupil: - learns the know-how in the chosen major - continues diverse practising	- deepening the know-how in the chosen major - practising art forms that support circus training - developing the skills in the minor subjects
Physical awareness	70	- the body as a tool	the pupil learns: - to use his/her own body in a varied manner when performing - to take responsibility of his/her body	- learning to maintain and develop balance: flexibility, strength, durability and coordination - deepening body language through music and dance - guiding the pupil towards independent training
Knowledge of circus arts	72	- analysing performances	the pupil: - deepens his/her circus knowledge - gets acquainted with modern circus - gets acquainted with the internationality of circus - expresses the circus world orally	- viewing shows and learning to assess them in writing - getting to know the history and terminology of the chosen major and exploring its possibilities - acquiring international circus experiences - producing texts in the topic of circus
Performing	108	- creating an act	the pupil learns: - to understand a circus act as a multi-artistic unit - to find his/her own stage persona	- exploring and training to prepare a circus act - deepening performing skills by concentrating on individual expression
Final project final year	60		the pupil: - prepares a circus act according to the goals he/she has set	- making a written work plan - practising an act either alone or in a group - assessing oneself according to the goals set before

8. ASSESSMENT DEVELOPS SORIN SIRKUS

Sorin Sirkus follows the level of education and the learning environment through assessment. The circus creates a safe and developing environment for their pupils and staff, and takes care of the condition and safety of the premises and the equipment. Sorin Sirkus pursues to train their staff. Sorin Sirkus evaluates its own operation when drawing up the annual report. The City of Tampere and the Ministry of Education follow the operation of Sorin Sirkus annually by reading the report of the association.

The development of the professionalism of the teachers is monitored, updated and feedback is aspired to give. Once a year the pupils give feedback on the activity and operation of the circus and the teachers in a written form by answering a questionnaire. The teachers assess their own work and the quality of the teaching on a weekly basis in teacher meetings and half-yearly in an assessment meeting of the institution.

8.1 Pupil assessment

The assessment given by the teacher is always encouraging and positive. The teacher gives oral feedback on the pupil´s progress during lessons. The given assessment strives to strengthen the motivation of the pupil and ease learning. The assessment is given in a discussive manner; the teacher and the pupil assess together the pupil´s progress. The pupil learns to follow up his/her own progress and assess his/her achievements according to the goals set before.

The pupil of the basic syllabus receives a transcript of completed study modules at the end of the spring term.
The pupil of the advanced syllabus receives a certificate annually containing a written evaluation.

8.2 Certificate of the basic syllabus

After completing 10 study modules the pupil receives a certificate of the basic syllabus for the basic education in the arts. All the study modules the pupil has completed are marked down in the certificate.

8.3 Certificate and assessment criteria of the advanced syllabus

Certificate of the basic studies
The pupil receives a certificate and a written description of the final project made by two (2) assessors.

Final project of the advanced studies
The pupil receives a certificate, which contains a written assessment and a grade of the advanced studies and the final project of the advanced studies. There must be at least two (2) assessors to assess the final project.

Assessment criteria of the basic studies
Basic studies are completed, when the pupil has prepared a final project. The objects of assessment are the performance and the technical skills.

Assessment criteria of the final project of the advanced studies
Advanced studies are completed, when the pupil has prepared a final project, a written work plan and a report. The assessment stresses the achievement of set goals, the performance and the technical skills.

8.4 Certificates

Contents of the transcript of completed study modules

Sorin Sirkus ry
pupil´s name
duration of studies
studies provided
signature of the teacher and stamp of the institution

Transcript of completed study modules of the basic syllabus of circus arts

Sorin Sirkus ry
transcript of completed study modules in the basic education of circus arts
pupil´s name and date of birth
pupil has completed _ lesson hours in the basic studies of circus arts
signature of the headmaster and stamp of the institution
City of Tampere authorisation to provide education 93/ 574/KUL 549
education is based on the Act on the Basic Education in the Arts (633/1998)
curriculum is accepted by the City of Tampere Culture and Leisure Board, June 7th , 2006

Certificate of the basic syllabus of circus arts

Sorin Sirkus ry
basic education of circus arts, containing basic studies
pupil´s name and date of birth
pupil has completed 500 lesson hours of the basic education in the arts
date of completion
pupil´s participation in projects
signature of the headmaster and stamp of the institution
City of Tampere authorisation to provide education 93/ 574/KUL 549
education is based on the Act on the Basic Education in the Arts (633/1998)
curriculum is accepted by the City of Tampere Culture and Leisure Board, June 7th , 2006
the basic syllabus of the circus arts consists of 10 study modules

Transcript of completed study modules of the advanced syllabus of circus arts

Sorin Sirkus ry
transcript of completed study modules of the advanced syllabus of circus arts
pupil´s name and date of birth
pupil has completed _ lesson hours in the basic studies of circus arts
signature of the headmaster and stamp of the institution
education is based on the Act of the Basic Education in the Arts (633/1998)
curriculum is accepted by the City of Tampere Culture and Leisure Board, June 7th , 2006
education is implemented according to the national core curriculum adopted by the National Board of Education (regulation 10/011/2005)

Certificate of the basic studies of the advanced syllabus of circus arts

Sorin Sirkus ry
basic education of circus arts, advanced syllabus, containing basic and advanced studies
pupils´s name and date of birth
pupil has completed 500 lesson hours of the basic education in the arts
pupil´s final project, date of completion
pupil´s participation in projects
signature of the headmaster and stamp of the institution
curriculum is accepted by the City of Tampere Culture and Leisure Board, June 7th , 2006
education is based on the Act of the Basic Education in the Arts (633/1998)
education is implemented according to the national core curriculum confirmed by the National Board of Education (regulation 10/011/2005)

Certificate of the advanced studies of the advanced syllabus of circus arts

Sorin Sirkus ry
basic education of circus arts, advanced syllabus, containing basic and advanced studies
pupil´s name and date of birth
pupil has completed 1300 lesson hours of the basic education in the arts
pupil´s final project, grade, written assessment, date of completion
pupil´s participation in projects
signature of the headmaster and stamp of the institution
curriculum is accepted by the City of Tampere Culture and Leisure Board, June 7th , 2006
education is based on the Act on the Basic Education in the Arts (633/1998)
education is implemented according to the national core curriculum confirmed by the National Board of Education (regulation 10/011/2005)
scale of grades 1-5

The certificate of the advanced studies also acts as a document for completing the advanced syllabus of the basic education of circus arts. In the basic education of circus arts, the pupil receives a certificate after completing the advanced studies, a certificate of basic studies after completing basic studies, and a transcript of completed study modules if needed.

“Sorin Sirkus has become a trademark, whose quality is guaranteed”, / Aamulehti

9. COOPERATION

Sorin Sirkus cooperates with many different people and institutions. Cooperation is developed and increased within possibilities.

9.1 Circus and the home

Sorin Sirkus encourages its teachers towards openness and good relations with the pupils and their parents. The circus strives to organize “Get to know the circus” -evenings twice a year, in which performing, spending time together and the possibility for open discussion make the relations of the circus and the home closer.

The parent´s input in different volunteer work is greatly valued.

9.2 Art institutes etc.

The teachers of Sorin Sirkus act as visiting teachers in many art institutes, courses and camps all around Finland (The University of Tampere / Department of Acting, Art Academy at Turku University of Applied Sciences, Lahti Institution of Arts and Crafts).
The cooperation of Sorin Sirkus with different youth circuses has continued for years. Sorin Sirkus wants to help smaller circus clubs to develop. Sorin Sirkus wants to create good friendships between the teachers and pupils of different circuses.
Sorin Sirkus acts as a good a place for practical training for students from many art institutes. Different art forms meet in productions, where there are circus trainer students, costume makers, set designers, make-up designers, sound and lighting designers, graphic designers etc.

Sorin Sirkus cooperates with the professionals in the field of circus, theatre and television.

9.3 Memberships and representation

Sorin Sirkus is a member of the Finnish Youth Circus Association (FYCA). Sorin Sirkus teacher Mette Ylikorva is the chairman of the association, Seela Wanvik is a member of the committee, and Jani Suihkonen acts as a deputy member.
FYCA office is located at the premises of Sorin Sirkus at Ahlmanintie.
Sorin Sirkus is a member of Tampere for Children and The Promoting Tampere Association, and thus it helps the development of children and young people´s culture in Tampere.

The ringmaster Taina Kopra is a member of the circus arts section of the Arts Council of Finland, and is involved in the national development of circus arts.

9.4 City of Tampere and the Ministry of Education

The City of Tampere and the Ministry of Education support Sorin Sirkus in a substantial manner. Tampere and the Ministry of Education have made it possible for Sorin Sirkus to acquire the new premises and their renovation in Nekala in 2005-2006.

9.5 Internationality

Internationality is an essential part of circus arts. Sorin Sirkus strives to give their pupils a touch of the international circus world.
International professionals and teachers are always welcome to visit. Within possibilities, the circus participates in international festivals and happenings.
The circus is a part of international N.I.C.E network (Network of International Circus Exchange). The reputation and relations of Sorin Sirkus in the world are outstanding. International interaction is pursued to develop still.

10. OTHER ACTIVITY

10.1 The performing company

Ringmaster Taina Kopra chooses the performing company. The company represents Sorin Sirkus in Finland and abroad. Performers practise throughout the year for 42 weeks: 12-30 lesson hours a week; 504- 1260 lesson hours a year. Their privilege is to train a lot in a varied manner and with top teachers. The duty of the performing company is to perform in small and big happenings. Each member of the performing company has at least one major and several minor subjects. They have one or more circus acts suitable for performing.

12-30 L/week

44 study weeks/year

504-1250 L/year

10.2. National development

During its 20-year existence Sorin Sirkus has become one the most substantial youth circuses in Finland. The development has lead to the point that Sorin Sirkus is ready and willing to develop circus arts also on a national level. The teachers have been to many cities and towns in local circus schools to give orientation-specific teaching, and also to train teachers. One of the projects in the near future is to give teacher training to physical education teachers, trainers and trainers of special groups as part of a national Aladdin´s Lamp -project.
20 years of know-how is a valuable asset, which Sorin Sirkus is more than happy to share.