RAD Examinations Parent Information
🩰 Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) Examinations
At Dakodas, we are proud to offer Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) Ballet training, providing students with a structured pathway through internationally recognised ballet examinations.
RAD examinations help students develop strong technical foundations, discipline, confidence, artistry and a sense of achievement, whilst working towards clear progression goals.
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Graded Examinations
Explore Graded ClassesStudents perform exercises and dances individually or in small groups before an RAD Examiner.
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Vocational Examinations
Explore Vocational classesAn invite-only class. More advanced examinations focused on technical excellence and preparation for higher-level training.
📚 Examination Pathways
Students can progress through the RAD syllabus as they grow and develop
Vocational Graded Examinations
Each level builds upon the knowledge, technique and artistry developed in previous grades.
⭐ Examination Formats
Nurturing achievement through flexible, supportive options that fit every dancer's journey.
Class Awards
An informal assessment conducted entirely within a reassuring group setting, perfect for building classroom confidence.
Presentation Classes
A highly supportive, pressure-free introduction to milestones, beautifully tailored for our younger students.
Graded Examinations
Students perform structured exercises and technical dances individually or in small groups directly before an RAD Examiner.
Vocational Examinations
More advanced examinations strictly focused on elite technical excellence and direct preparation for professional training structures.
UCAS Tariff Points
Turn your passion into university credits! From Intermediate level onwards, certain RAD vocational examinations attract official UCAS tariff points.
These higher-level dance qualifications directly contribute toward future university applications in the UK, helping your profile stand out to admissions teams.
Commitment
Showcases years of continuous focus, dedication, and personal drive.
Resilience
Proves the ability to embrace challenges, refine technique, and overcome obstacles.
Achievement
Validates elite skill levels against strict, internationally recognized benchmarks.
💜 Benefits of Taking Examinations
"Many students describe their examination experience as one of their proudest dance milestones."
📅 Attendance Expectations
From Grade 2 upwards, students wishing to take RAD examinations must attend a minimum of two ballet classes per week.
Essential for:
- Technical development
- Strength building
- Retention of syllabus work
- Examination readiness
*Examination entry is always at the discretion of the teaching team.
🏡 Practising at Home
Students are encouraged to reinforce learning between classes:
- Practise corrections given in class
- Review exercises regularly
- Listen to examination music
- Use the RAD App for additional support
Required Uniform
Students must attend examination sessions in the correct RAD uniform.
This includes:
- Approved leotard
- Ballet tights
- Ballet shoes
- Correctly styled ballet hair
- Any grade-specific character skirt or props where required
Teachers will provide full examination uniform requirements well in advance.
Practising at Home
Regular practice at home helps students build confidence and reinforce learning between classes.
Students are encouraged to:
- Practise corrections given in class
- Review exercises regularly
- Listen to examination music
- Use the RAD App for additional support
Even 10-15 minutes of practice each week can make a significant difference.
