RAD Ballet Exams
Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) Ballet Exams & Class Awards
Our ballet classes follow the pr RAD syllabus, the largest ballet organisation in the world.
If your child pursues dance in our competition troupes, HSC Dance, full-time study, or other performing opportunities, RAD exams provide a strong foundation and technical pathway.
We offer:
Class Awards – a fun, low-pressure way to celebrate progress
Graded Exams – a formal assessment with certificates and feedback
Exams are held annually in late July or early August at our Toukley studio.
Exact dates are confirmed approximately one month prior.
New to Exams?
Exams are a positive and rewarding experience.
Each year, students show amazing progress.
Even to the untrained eye, the difference in students who take exams is noticeable.
Younger students have their teacher present in the exam room for support.
RAD examiners are highly experienced and create a calm, encouraging environment so every child feels comfortable and confident.
Class Awards vs Full Examinations
1. RAD Class Award
Purpose: Recognise progress and achievements in class, not a formal exam.
Focus: Confidence, enjoyment, and performance over technical perfection.
Format: In-studio with teacher; perform exercises and short routines.
Assessment: Feedback and a certificate (no pass/fail).
Who it suits: New or younger students, nervous students, or those who haven’t met hours for a full exam.
Benefits:
Builds confidence in a supportive environment
Celebrates progress and effort
Encourages participation and engagement
Develops posture, balance, and body awareness
Friendly feedback from teachers
Great first step before full exams
2. RAD Examination
Purpose: Formal assessment of technique, performance, and syllabus skills.
Assessment: Graded Pass, Merit, or Distinction, plus detailed feedback.
Who it suits: Students aiming for recognition, progression, or a dance portfolio.
Benefits:
Structured learning and progression
Certificates or medals as formal recognition
Professional feedback on technique, posture, and alignment
Builds discipline, focus, and confidence
Enhances performance, musicality, and expression
Improves core strength, posture, coordination, and body awareness
Opens pathways for scholarships, auditions, and further study
Exam Requirements
To participate, students must attend:
At least two weekly ballet classes (three preferred)
**Please note even attending correct amount of classes doesn't guarantee your child will be ready for exam.
We work on each child as an individual.
Exam Intensive – Week 1, July School Holidays (6–8 July)
Private lessons are optional if students cannot attend intensive
Purpose of Intensive:
Practice in the exam space (spatial awareness is assessed)
Refine technique
Build confidence performing independently
Home Practice:
Official RAD videos available through the RAD Video App.
Even short sessions at home improve confidence and retention.
This allows dancers to watch and practise their exam exercises at home.
Even short weekend practice sessions can greatly improve confidence and retention.
The app is free to download, with grades available for individual purchase.
Please note that not all exercises will look exactly the same as they do on the app. Teachers are given some flexibility in how they prepare students and may adjust the way exercises are taught or performed to best suit the class.
Exam and Awards Class Uniform Links
Primary
Leotard (with skirt).
Tights
Ballet Shoes
Grade 1
Leotard
Tights
Ballet Shoes
Character Shoes - Accent heels
Character Skirt
Grade 2
Leotard
Tights
Ballet Shoes
Character Shoes - Accent heels
Character Skirt
Grade 3
Leotard
Tights
Ballet Shoes
Character Shoes - Cuban Heels
Character Skirt
Grade 4
Leotard
Tights
Ballet Shoes
Character Shoes - Cuban Heels
Character Skirt
Grade 5
Leotard
Tights
Ballet Shoes
Character Shoes - Cuban Heels
Character Skirt
*not all students will require character skirt
Grade 6
Leotard Black
*Own Style Choice
Tights
Ballet Shoes
Character Shoes - Cuban Heels
Character Skirt
Black Grade 6-7-8 Skirt
Grade 7
Leotard Black
*Own Style Choice
Tights
Ballet Shoes
Character Shoes - Cuban Heels
Character Skirt
Black Grade 6-7-8 Skirt
Grade 8
Leotard Black
*Own Style Choice
Tights
Ballet Shoes
Character Shoes - Cuban Heels
Character Skirt
Black Grade 6-7-8 Skirt
Boys:
White leotard or t-shirt, black leggings/shorts, white socks & ballet shoes
Neat, tidy hair
* We will check with Miss Alice first.
Girls hair video - https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/ph4234utl8uwknn6sdon5/IMG_1167.mp4?rlkey=mhmtvzwknydcsdbh6v2xdn06p&st=s8gr4bus&dl=0
Eligibility & Fees
Attendance: 90% minimum
Meet RAD age requirements
Exam Costs (due 4 May 2026):
Primary – $101
Grade 1 – $111
Grade 2 – $126
Grade 4 – $142
Grade 5 – $148
Grade 8 – $172
(Fees include exam administration)
Intensive classes are charged separately from regular class fees.
**Everything must be worn in class as well, not just for exams.
Grade 5 students and Awards Class students: check with Miss Alice before buying character shoes or skirts - you may not need them
Competition Crew
At CMDA, we offer competition classes for students who are committed to taking their dance journey to the next level. These classes prepare students to compete in various eisteddfods and competitions throughout the year—usually around 3–4 events annually.
Unlike some studios, we prioritise commitment and dedication over natural talent when selecting dancers for our teams. We believe that camaraderie, teamwork, and reliability are just as important as skill, and these attributes help build a strong and supportive team environment.
Eligibility for Competition Teams:
Students must attend a minimum of one ballet class per week-preferably two as the foundations of technique are taught in ballet classes.
Students should attend Saturday competition training whenever possible.
Children typically become eligible from around 6–7 years of age.
If your child is interested in joining a competition team, please email Cathy, who will guide you through the process.
It’s important for both parents and students to understand that competition classes require commitment. If social activities—like going to the beach or prioritising other hobbies—take precedence over training, competition classes may not be the right fit.
Solo Competitions:
Many students also pursue individual solo competitions. The same criteria of dedication and commitment apply.
For solos, it’s highly recommended that students attend two ballet classes per week and do their ballet exams to strengthen their technique. A good starting age for solo competition is around 6–7 years. If your child is interested in solo competitions, please contact Cath for further guidance.