Royal Academy of Dancing
The Royal Academy of Dancing is an international teacher training and examining organization for classical ballet whose aim is to develop the highest possible standards of teaching. Examiners are sent to over 64 countries around the world. Teachers following the Royal Academy system encourage young people to achieve their personal best. Whatever age or stage they may have reached, young people who study with an RAD teacher can be confident that they are receiving the most comprehensive, well structured and relevant program of classical ballet available. They can be sure that they will be taught according to safe teaching principles and know that regular evaluation through progressively spaced Examinations is available to them.
The RAD is 87 years old. It was founded under the inspiring leadership of five distinguished teachers each representing a different style of ballet - Danish, Russian, Italian, French, and English. This was a historic event. It was the first time teachers banded together to raise the standard of their profession. The important and unique role of the Association was reorganized by the late Queen Mary and in 1928 it was granted a Royal Charter at which time it became the Royal Academy of Dancing. Upon the death of Queen Mary in 1953, her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II graciously consented to be the new Patron.
The syllabus has been carefully structured for children 6 through 18 years of age. The Academy feels that its program of carefully graded ballet instruction is the ultimate service it can render to ballet students and their parents. Only registered teachers may enter candidates for RAD examinations. Registration status is reviewed regularly to assure that standards are maintained. Teachers are required to attend annual seminars to maintain standards and improve teaching skills.
Examinations offer students a challenge to show their understanding of the work. They are open to all students. Those who are interested must enroll in the RAD class corresponding to their grade level class with permission by the director. In this class the student will learn the required exam syllabus; barre work, center work, free movement, character dancing, which is national dancing from various countries, and dances. The younger grade levels do not incorporate all of these.
There are five pass categories: Honours, Highly Commended, Commended, Pass Plus, Pass. If the child does not meet the criteria in any of these categories they will receive unsuccessful. Each student at the end of the exam will receive a report by the examiner indicating their strengths and weaknesses as well as a certificate for those who are successful. Students who are interested but are physically challenged may participate by taking an assessment instead of an exam. This student is not measured by the specific categories indicating success, but instead receives a report indicating his/her strengths and weaknesses and receives a Certificate of Participation.
The qualities gained from the study of the exams is an awareness of ones own body and the capabilities for movement, expression and sensitivity, the sense of achievement which comes from mastering a goal and moving on to the next challenge. Above all, the syllabus is designed to be enjoyed. It should bring pleasure as well as a sense of achievement. Annual exams are an invaluable yardstick by which parents and teachers can measure the student's progress and level of achievement. Young people may move into other areas of interest which happens often in growing up, but the pleasure and physical benefit gained from the ballet experience will last a life time.