Our Examining body

The Royal Academy of Dance (RAD)

The RAD is one of the most influential dance training organisations globally. Established in the UK in 1920 by a group of professionals representing the leading ballet styles of the period, their aim was to improve the standards of dance teaching. Today the RAD’s patron is the late Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and, it’s president Dame Darcey Bussell, DBE oversees a network of 13,000 skilled employees, teachers and members in 89 countries.

At Andrea Taylor School of Dance we teach the RAD’s renowned classical ballet syllabus. The syllabus follows a progressive structure with an option of examination at every grade, when/if our teachers and principal deem a student ready. Every year, 250,000 students worldwide take ballet examinations with the RAD. They not only provide a quality record of achievement but are also recognised on the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) in England. At Level 3 on the RQF equating to RAD grade 6-8 and vocational level, students accrue UCAS points upon passing their examination which can be used when applying to any university. Moreover, RAD vocational grades are recognised by the leading colleges in the industry.

the disciplines we offer

Classical Ballet

Classical ballet is a disciplined style based on formalised movements and positions of the body, designed to enable the dancer to move with the greatest possible agility, control, speed and grace. The technique promotes correct posture and poise; contributing to core strength and a dancers flexibility. It's subject matter may be romantic, realistic or mythological.

our recommended grade age boundaries

Ballet:

Pre-School - 3-4 years

Pre-Primary - 4-5.5 years

Primary - 5-6.5 years

Grade 1 - 6-7.5 years

Grades 2 to 5 - 7+ years

Grades 6 to 8 - 10+ years

Vocational Grades - Entry upon invitation or passing Grade 6

*these age boundaries are only recommended and are highly dependent on a students ability and prior experience, our principal will discuss them with you upon enquiry.

performance opportunities

We offer our students to take part in large scale dance productions. In October 2022, we choreographed our own version of Alice in Wonderland, ‘Dreaming of Wonderland’. The entire school took part at The Hexagon Theatre, followed by a wrap party at the Imperial Sports Ground. It was a wonderful weekend and experience for all.

the disciplines we currently have suspended