Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions regarding the Società Dante Alighieri Gold Coast. If you can't find the answer to your question here, feel free to contact us!
When do classes start?
Classes follow a Semester system, starting in late January and July each year.
- Semester 1: Monday, 9 February 2026
- Semester 2: Monday, 13 July 2026
Students are expected to attend for the whole semester. Term dates align with Queensland public school holidays. For specific term dates, click here.
For those wishing to attend only some lessons, private classes are available. Click here for more details.
Where are we located?
The Società Dante Alighieri Gold Coast Inc. has its facilities (clubrooms and library) at the rear of the Italo-Australian Club in Clear Island Waters.
Click here for directions to the Dante Rooms.
When are classes held?
Classes are offered both during the day and evening, Monday to Friday.
How long do classes last?
Each class lasts for two hours, with a 10-minute tea/coffee break in the middle.
What are the costs of classes?
The Dante Society is a not-for-profit organisation, and we aim to keep the costs as low as possible while ensuring sustainability.
For details on current fees, click here.
We offer early bird discounts for those who pay for the entire semester before a given date.
- Semester 1, 2026 Early Bird Price: $560 (includes membership; must be paid on or before Wednesday, 7 January 2026)
- Standard Semester Fee: $590 + $20 membership = $610
- Term 1 (8 weeks): $272 + $20 membership (if not already a member) = $292
- Term 2 (10 weeks): $340 + $20 membership (if not already a member) = $360
- Casual lessons: $40 per lesson (for students wanting a few extra lessons before travel, etc.)
- Discounts are available for pensioners, students, and families.
If a class is cancelled due to insufficient enrolment, we'll offer alternatives or refund all fees.
Can I pay by credit card?
Unfortunately, we don't accept credit card payments due to processing fees (2%-5%).
Fees can be paid in cash or by Direct Deposit:
- Bank: Società Dante Alighieri, Gold Coast
- BSB: 034216
- Account No.: 862414
- Please use your surname as the reference.
Students wishing to pay in cash will be contacted by the School Director.
Do I need to attend an Enrolment Day?
We no longer hold an Enrolment Day. Instead, enrolment is completed online through our website.
Click here to enrol and complete the necessary forms.
How do I know what level to enrol in?
If you're new to the school, please contact our School Director, Rita Lo Presti, to determine the best class for your level.
New students with no prior knowledge of Italian will begin in Beginners 1.
Students with some prior knowledge will be assigned to a class based on their proficiency.
Do I need to buy textbooks?
Most classes use textbooks for one or two years. The Dante Society purchases books in bulk, allowing us to offer them at discounted prices.
Check with us or your teacher during the first lesson to know which book you need.
Teachers will also provide printed materials at no extra cost.
Will I get a certificate for my studies?
Yes! At the end of each semester, students receive an attractive certificate celebrating their completion of the course.
Do my studies qualify me for a PLIDA Certificate?
The PLIDA Certificate (Progetto Lingua Italiana Dante Alighieri) certifies Italian proficiency through a formal exam.
The Gold Coast Dante Society is not authorised to issue these certificates, but our sister organisation in Brisbane may assist you.
Click here for more details.
Are classes face-to-face or online?
Our regular classes are held face-to-face at the Dante Rooms. However, if Covid-19 restrictions are in place, classes may be held online via Zoom.
What are mini-courses?
Mini-courses are short-term courses designed to extend or maintain your skills during holidays.
Some popular topics include:
- 🍝 Cooking Classes
- 🎨 Italian Artworks
- 🎬 Film Appreciation
- 💬 Grammar and Conversation Workshops
- 🍽️ Pasta and Gnocchi Making Workshops
Mini-courses are available at various levels and may have a small fee.
Does Dante have newsletters?
Yes! The Dante Society produces a monthly newsletter, sent to all students and members. It includes information about school activities, Italian culture, and history.
If you don't wish to receive newsletters, you can easily opt out.
Do you offer courses for children?
Currently, we don't run classes specifically for children. However, private lessons can be arranged for younger students.
Click here for more info.
Do you offer private lessons?
Yes! We offer private lessons for individuals or small groups.
To learn more about private lessons, including pricing, click here.
Which social media platforms do you use?
Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for regular updates on Dante activities and events in Italy.
Stay connected and see photos of students in class and other activities!
Visit our Facebook | Follow us on Instagram.
Do you have any social functions?
We're bringing back Italian-themed social functions, such as:
- 🍽️ Dinners
- 🎶 Bocce games
- 🎤 Fashion Parades
- 🎬 Cooking Demonstrations
- 🎭 Opera Visits
We're planning more events throughout 2026!
Do I need to be a student to attend Dante functions?
No! You don't need to be a student to join our social events. Membership is open to anyone with an interest in Italian culture.
Members enjoy:
- 📰 Newsletters
- 📚 Library access
- 🎉 Invitations to social functions
Click here to become a member or download the membership form.
What if a class is full or not on the timetable?
If you're interested in a class that is fully booked or not currently offered on the timetable, you can add your name to our Waiting List.
This helps us gauge demand and potentially schedule additional classes in the future.
Click here for further information and to join the Waiting List.