Royal Academy of Dance
Royal Academy of Dance examinations are part of an internationally renowned system of assessments that draw on the research and academic practices of twenty awarding organisations. These organisations promote progressive mastery in music, dance, drama and musical theatre.
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EXAMINATIONS
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Exams and assessments aim to motivate and reward students of all ages and abilities. The focus is on creativity and musicality, providing opportunities to progress and achieve.
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The graded syllabus (Pre-Primary in Dance, Primary in Dance and Grade 1–8) provides a broad practical dance education that develops technical, musical and performance skills (age 5+).
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Vocational graded examinations (Intermediate Foundation, Intermediate, Advanced Foundation, Advanced 1, Advanced 2) provide an in-depth study of ballet and prepare students for a career in dance (age 11+).
Graded Syllabus
Pre-Primary & Primary in Dance
5-7 years old
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These structured classes develop students’ physical skills, discipline, stamina, creativity, expression and musicality using a range of movements and musical styles. The syllabi prepare students for a successful transition to ballet and other dance genres at higher levels.
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Grades 1 – 8
7+ years old
The Graded Examinations consist of three dance disciplines:
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Classical Ballet Technique
The foundation and the most important part of the syllabus.
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Free Movement
Incorporating and influenced by movements common with other dance styles such as Natural Movement, Contemporary and Classical Greek Dance.
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Character
The theatrical presentation of national dance using original ethnic dance and music, freely adapted for the theatre. The three styles — Hungarian, Russian and Polish — were selected because of their historic importance in the development of the nineteenth century full-length classical ballets.
Vocational Syllabus
Intermediate Foundation – Advanced 2
11+ years old
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The Vocational Graded Examinations provides an in-depth study of Ballet, developing students’ technique, musicality and performance skills. Pointe work is introduced for female candidates. This highly-focused and practical training prepares students for a dance, or dance-related, career. The syllabi are appropriate for students from the age of 11 years. Students wishing to study for Vocational Graded examinations should have the maturity and technical aptitude for demanding study.