Examinations and Medal Tests

Dance Tests in London

Pupils are regularly entered for ISTD examinations (www.istd.org). For an examination you can choose to dance either with your partner or with a teacher. You can also choose the role in which you dance either as Leader or Follower and some pupils enjoy learning both.

There is a wide ranging syllabus: Social Dance Test, Pre Bronze, Bronze, Silver, Gold and Gold Star through to Supreme Award. Each level provides a tangible goal and a sense of achievement.

Social Dance Tests are introductory examinations at a social level which may be taken by candidates of any age. There is a specified syllabus of figures up to Gold and a good selection of these should be demonstrated in your examination. The quality of movement expected and technique required will increase as you progress. By working to dance at a high standard for each test the move to the next level is a natural progression.

If you have already attended group classes you will be able to use some of the experience you have, consolidating your knowledge and enjoying the confidence which comes from really understanding what you are doing.

Grade Examinations (Grades 1 to 6) are also available. These are accredited on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) for England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

The aim of Graded Examinations is to provide an assessment scheme for dance, which gives the basis for the measurement of the individual candidate’s progress and development, whether the candidate is pursuing dance as a leisure activity or as preparation for a professional career.