About ISTD Examinations
The examination structure of the ISTD is designed to cater equally for the 'once a week' child and the child who will go on to make dance his/her profession, either as a performer or as a teacher. The work progresses through each level, building on the lessons previously learned as well as adding new skills. Musicality and artistry are valued as highly as technical execution and all syllabi are regularly reviewed to keep them up to date.

The Professional examinations are structured to give the new teacher the best possible foundation from which to work. Care of the growing child is emphasised as is a knowledge of anatomy as it relates specifically to the dancer and the possible effects of dance on the growing body.

Grade/Class Examinations
Grade examinations and Class examinations may be taken in Classical Ballet (Cecchetti and Imperial Methods), Modern Theatre and Tap Dance, National Dance, Classical Greek Dance and South Asian Dance. There are eight levels of examination from Pre-Primary to Grade 6.

Medal Tests
These tests may be taken in Modern Ballroom, Latin American, Sequence, Disco, Rock 'n' Roll, Country Western, Classical Greek, Jazz, Tap, National and Scottish Country and Highland Dance. The levels ascend from Bronze to Silver, Gold, Gold Star and Supreme Awards in up to four divisions.

Vocational Examinations (Imperial Dance & Theatre Faculties)
In the Theatre Faculties the Intermediate Foundation, Intermediate, Advanced 1 and Advanced 2 examinations form a cohesive bridge between the work covered in the Grades and the work of the Professional examinations.

Professional Examinations
These may be taken in all Faculties and are linked with membership of the ISTD.

Certificate in Applied Anatomy and Physiology/History and Development of Western Dance
These examinations are divided into two parts each and both of the parts consist of one written paper and a special subject chosen by the applicant.

For a full listing of all exams offered by the ISTD click here>>