Resources · 5 min read
What is RAD ballet?
The Royal Academy of Dance syllabus is one of the world’s most widely taught ballet methods. Here is what it means for your child.
A syllabus, not a style of dancing
The RAD sets out what is taught at each level and in what order, from the first pre-school class through to the advanced vocational grades. A student who moves cities can pick up where they left off.
The levels, in order
Pre-Primary and Primary in Dance come first, then Grades 1 to 8. Students who continue move into the vocational levels: Intermediate Foundation, Intermediate, Advanced Foundation, Advanced 1 and Advanced 2.
Examinations are optional
Examinations exist at almost every level, but no student has to sit one. They are useful as a milestone and an external assessment, and some students prefer to dance without them.
Why it suits a small school
The syllabus gives a clear path. A parent can see at the outset where a four-year-old will be in five years, and a teacher can be precise about what a child is working towards this term.
Draft written from general ballet-education practice. Every paragraph needs Miss Chew’s review before publication.
Ready to start?
Classes at Orchid Country Club, Yishun, for ages four and above.