Dance Examinations

ISTD is an internationally recognised dance qualification

The Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing (ISTD) is one of the world’s leading dance examination boards. From Ballet to Ballroom, we have 11 dance faculties covering Theatre, Dancesport and Social Dance.

Since 1904 we have provided training for dance teachers and examiners, enabling teachers to enter their students for examinations, develop new techniques and spread the joy of dance.

As a registered educational charity and membership association, the ISTD’s mission is to educate the public in the art of dancing in all its forms, to promote knowledge of dance, to provide up-to-date techniques for our members, and to maintain and improve teaching standards. We support our members through updated teaching syllabi and techniques, plus a wide variety of courses, summer schools and congresses.

Vocational Grades

The Vocational Grades are accredited by Ofqual and include Intermediate Foundation, Intermediate, Advanced 1 and Advanced 2. These examinations form a cohesive bridge between grade work and professional examinations to provide the basis for either a career as a dancer, or further training as a dance teacher.

At MAD we offer examinations in:

Imperial Ballet

Modern Theatre

Tap

Contemporary

How it works

Examination sessions are typically booked twice a year.

These take place in Ramsbury Memorial Hall

When we feel a student is ready for an examination, we will contact the parent to offer them the opportunity to take an exam.

You will then be required to do 4-6 coaching lessons to prepare. These typically take place in Marlborough on Saturday afternoons or Sunday mornings.

It is very important to us that the student feels ready and confident.

Ultimately we want an examination to be a positive experience for the student and we want it to only enhance their passion and confidence.

If you have an queries about exams, please contact Cheryl at madmarlborough@gmail.com