The McDonald College After Hours Program follows the renowned Royal Academy of Dance (R.A.D) syllabus for all our Classical Ballet based classes and examinations. The R.A.D is one of the largest and most influential dance education and training organisations in the world and features exquisite music and beautiful new enchainments to challenge today’s ballet students. Whilst many students commence ballet simply for enjoyment and fitness, many students go on to sit ballet examinations.
What are the benefits of sitting a ballet examination?
- Having a goal to work towards
- Attaining a higher standard of technique, musicality and performance
- Receiving recognition from the world’s largest ballet examining body
- Receiving a report, certificate, and medal in recognition of achievement
- Gaining confidence and increasing enjoyment in dance
Our RAD Ballet Examinations are always held in the November session each year. Exact dates are not known until closer to the time, so it’s important students remain as available as possible. In order for students to reach their personal best, there are several requirements you must meet before being considered to sit an examination:
For Primary to Grade 5 level
Must attend the week day and Saturday syllabus classes per week, plus an additional Exam Coaching Class which commences in Term 3 and runs until the examinations are over.
Vocational Level Ballet (Intermediate Foundation to Advanced 2):
Must attend both syllabus classes per week, a Pointe class and a compulsory Open Class held on Saturdays. Additional Exam Coaching sessions may be called closer to the exams if needed.
Compulsory October School Holiday Ballet Examination Workshops – held at the College:
All Exam students must attend compulsory exam workshops held in the October School Holiday period, usually in the second week of the school holidays. These Workshops are held at the College in our studios. The fee for this Workshop is included in the Exam entry fee for Primary to Grade 5. Vocational levels will incur a seperate charge.
Private Lessons for Exam Preparation:
Your child may be required to have weekly private lessons to assist them with their ballet exam preparation. This will be at the teachers discretion.
Fee Information:
There are additional fees involved when entering for a ballet examination. Please speak with the office in regards to the fees.
IMPORTANT:
The final decision of exam entry is at the discretion of your childs ballet teacher and the Head of the After Hours Program. You may be required to pay your exam entry fee, coaching classes and private lessons in advance at the discretion of the Manager. Please note that the exam entry fee, coaching classes and private lessons are all additional costs on top of term fees.
If you would like your child to be considered for an examination at the College please first speak with Lisa Haack, Head of After Hours who will then discuss this with your child’s ballet teacher.