Examinations 2010
Frequently asked questions
What is the Royal Academy of Dance?
The Royal Academy of Dance is an international teacher education and awarding body for classical ballet.
It was established in the 1920's with the aim of developing and maintaining the highest possible standard in classical ballet.
Why should I consider exams for my child?
The Somerset School of Dancing in conjunction with The Royal Academy of Dance stresses the importance of every student having an achievable goal. This is carried out in two ways; firstly the syllabus is related to development rather than age, secondly achievement is measured by examinations or presentation classes.
What benefits can my child get from entering for a Royal Academy exam?
Exams offer the students an opportunity to show their understanding of the steps studied. Students must meet the criteria for each level so they can confidently move on to the next level.
The Academy is one of the first awarding bodies in dance to have its qualifications admitted to the National qualifying framework in the U.K The academy is now working towards equivalent bodies overseas so its qualifications are recognized as widely as possible.
What is the difference between the exam and presentation class?
The presentation class is an alternative program of work based on the exam syllabus with certain exercises adapted or excluded.
The syllabus has been designed for students who for a variety of reasons may prefer not to take formal exams or are unable to attend the time required to study.
What if my child is nervous or unwilling to take the exam?
When faced with exams children may appear nervous or unwilling. This is usually because of the unknown factor. The situation may be helped by letting the child know what happens from an older sibling or friend and parents can make sure the exam is a special occasion which should be exciting not scary.
At what age is my child eligible for exams?
Children must be 5 years old or over to enter for the first level of exams – Pre Primary.
What does the exam involve?
For the Pre Primary exam and all Presentation classes the students go into the exam as a group with the teacher who conducts the exam like a class (without correcting!!)
For all other Grade exams the students enter in groups of 4 or less and the exam is conducted by the examiner (the teacher does not enter)
Only the pianist, examiner and students are allowed in the studio during an exam.
Where does the examiner come from?
The Royal academy of Dance has a board of examiners spread throughout the world. Based on her schedule at the time an examiner is chosen to come from London, Australia, USA, Canada or Europe as part of her examining tour.
At which location do the exams take place?
All exams take place at the Berkeley Rd Studio.
When and how do I know if my child has been entered for her RAD exam?
Each child is assessed at the mock exam held from January through to April each year. A progress report helps us to decide who has the following:
• Sound knowledge of all her Grade syllabus.
• Is able to execute all the work with good technique and style.
Parents will be notified of our decision no later than May 14 th .
Any student not taking the RAD examination will be given our internal school exam by the end of the term.
What if I choose not to enter my daughter for her exam?
If a student has been selected by us to take the exam and you wish to decline, you must notify Mrs. Hodgson immediately otherwise you will be responsible for the exam fee.
Phone 234-2164 Email : ssod@northrock.bm
Why does my child have to take extra classes before exams?
As we build up to exams it is necessary from Primary level upward for the children to attend extra classes. It is strongly recommended by the academy that at least 1 term of these extra classes be taken in order for the student to reach her full potential. Entering for the exam the students should feel confident in the knowledge of the work she has been studying as well as having the added strength to achieve her very best. This extra work helps to build stamina and confidence.
At Grade 2 level and upward students are not considered for exams unless they have been attending regular classes twice a week, as the workload at this level is much more challenging.
How are the students marked?
The marking system is as follows:
Unclassified = 0-39%
Pass = 40-54%
Pass with merit = 55-74%
Pass with distinction = 75-100%
How soon do we get the results?
After the exams the examiner returns the paperwork to London for processing. The results are returned to us after approximately 4-6 weeks.
Each candidate receives a result form, which will show the marks achieved in each section and the overall result they are also awarded a certificate stating the level passed.
What does my child need to wear for the exam?
There is a full uniform list available at the studio. Also before you child's exam you will receive an individual notice of exam time and uniform requirements.
How does my daughter wear her hair for the exam?
If your daughter's hair is long enough she will need to have it in a tidy ballet bun with no wisps. Don't worry if you are unable to do this as all the teachers are very experienced in doing ballet hair and are on hand to do it. Please allow time before the exam though if you do need a teacher to do hair and please bring your own hairbrush, pins, hairnets and hairspray or gel.
If a child has a short hairstyle a plain headband is acceptable or again one of the teachers will make sure that it is neatly gelled back.
Are parents allowed to wait at the studio for their daughters?
We don't mind parents waiting for children especially if it is for the younger exams, which only take a short while. However we prefer as few people waiting around as possible so as not to hinder the next students entering for exams. If you choose to wait at the studio please remember we must keep noise levels down.
How much earlier than the exam should I bring my daughter?
On the individual sheet you will receive before the exams as well as the uniform requirements there will be the exact arrival and departure time.
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