Dance & Performing Arts

    Royal Academy of Dance
    Vocational

    Specification: 100/1342/8

    The ROYAL-ACADEMY-OF-DANCE Vocational Dance & Performing Arts specification covers 34 topics with 78 learning objectives (100/1342/8). Use the topic browser below to explore subtopics, exam tips, common mistakes, and key terminology for each area of the course.

    This subject will help you develop key knowledge and skills required for exam success.

    34

    Units

    78

    Learning Outcomes

    145

    Assessment Guidance

    153

    Key Skills

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    Key Features

    • Master key concepts
    • Develop exam technique
    • Apply knowledge effectively

    Common Exam Mistakes

    Pitfalls to avoid in your exams

    • •Lack of turnout or alignment.
    • •Ignoring musical phrasing.
    • •Inconsistent performance quality.
    • •Collapsing the supporting side in arabesque or développé
    • •Rushing through musical counts without phrasing or breathing
    • •Tensing the shoulders and arms during turns and balances
    • •Poor use of head and eyeline, resulting in a lack of focus and connection
    • •Insufficient use of plié in jumps, leading to heavy landings

    Top Examiner Tips

    Expert advice for exam success

    • •Practice with a pianist or recorded music.
    • •Focus on expression and storytelling.
    • •Maintain stamina through full variations.
    • •Practice counting the music aloud to internalize the rhythm before the exam
    • •Focus on breathing through movements to maintain fluidity and reduce tension
    • •Ensure you hold balances at the barre and in centre to demonstrate stability and control
    • •Make clear transitions between steps to show continuity of movement and musicality
    • •Project confidence and engagement with the examiner as the audience, treating the exam as a performance

    Qualification Units

    34 units

    How this qualification is graded

    Vocational qualifications are marked against criteria, not an exam percentage. Each unit is assessed across three bands - build up from Pass by applying your knowledge to realistic workplace scenarios.

    Pass

    Accurately describe and explain the core knowledge for the unit and link it to the given scenario.

    Merit

    Apply and analyse that knowledge in detail, showing why it matters in the workplace context.

    Distinction

    Evaluate and justify decisions, weigh up alternatives and make well-reasoned professional recommendations.

    Vocational Graded Examination in Ballet: Solo Seal

    This advanced ballet examination requires demonstration of technical skill, musicality, and performance quality. Learners perform complex variations with accuracy and artistry.

    RAD Level 5 Certificate in Vocational Graded Examination in Dance: Solo Seal (Ballet)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    RAD Graded Examination in Ballet: Grade 4

    RAD Grade 4 Ballet consolidates foundational technique while introducing more complex movement sequences that demand control, coordination, and expressive execution. Learners develop musicality and artistry through the performance of ballet exercises and dances, bridging elementary skills and intermediate proficiency with an emphasis on stylistic accuracy and individual flair.

    RAD Level 2 Award in Graded Examination in Dance: Grade 4 (Ballet)

    6 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    RAD Graded Examination in Ballet: Grade 6

    The RAD Grade 6 Ballet syllabus represents an advanced level of classical ballet training, where dancers refine complex technical skills, intricate musicality, and expressive artistry. Through the performance of demanding enchaînements and choreographic variations, candidates demonstrate readiness for pre-professional study. Mastery at this level involves seamless integration of alignment, coordination, and performance quality across a broad ballet vocabulary.

    RAD Level 3 Certificate in Graded Examination in Dance: Grade 6 (Ballet)

    6 learning outcomes12 guidance points

    RAD Graded Examination in Dance: Grade 3 (Creative Training: Ballet)

    This subtopic develops foundational classical ballet technique through creative exercises, expanding movement vocabulary and musicality. It focuses on integrating precise timing, rhythm, and expressive performance to build confidence when presenting to an audience, preparing candidates for more advanced graded examinations.

    RAD Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Dance: Grade 3 (Creative Training)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    RAD Graded Examination in Ballet: Grade 2

    RAD Grade 2 Ballet consolidates basic technique through simple sequences and short dances, focusing on correct posture, turnout, and coordination. Learners develop musical responsiveness by matching movements to rhythm and mood, while beginning to express artistic intention. This grade establishes safe practice habits and performance confidence essential for progression in classical ballet.

    RAD Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Dance: Grade 2 (Ballet)

    6 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Solo Performance Award in Dance: Grade 1

    The Grade 1 Solo Performance Award assesses a candidate's ability to perform three set solo dances from the RAD syllabus, integrating basic ballet technique, musical responsiveness, and expressive performance quality. At this foundational level, dancers must demonstrate secure posture, accurate placement, and coordinated movements while conveying the character and mood of each dance through clear musical timing and engaging presentation.

    RAD Level 1 Award in Solo Performance in Dance: Grade 1

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Solo Performance Award in Dance: Grade 5

    This element assesses the candidate's ability to perform three contrasting dances of intermediate difficulty, integrating secure technique, precise musicality, and expressive performance skills. It requires thorough preparation to demonstrate controlled execution of movement vocabulary, accurate rhythmic response, and engaging communication with the audience. Success reflects a holistic command of the genre-specific style and individual artistry at a Grade 5 standard.

    RAD Level 2 Award in Solo Performance in Dance: Grade 5

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    RAD Graded Examination in Dance: Grade 4 (Creative Training: Ballet)

    This element focuses on consolidating the technical foundation of classical ballet at RAD Grade 4, integrating more complex coordinations and longer movement phrases. Students develop heightened musical awareness, learning to phrase movements with dynamics and stylistic nuance appropriate to the ballet vocabulary. Practical application includes performing set exercises and a creative study with assured confidence and expressive quality, preparing candidates for the rigours of higher grades and vocational training.

    RAD Level 2 Award in Graded Examination in Dance: Grade 4 (Creative Training)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    RAD Graded Examination in Ballet: Grade 3

    This component of the RAD Grade 3 Ballet examination assesses the candidate's ability to execute foundational ballet movements with correct posture, alignment, coordination, and control. Candidates are expected to demonstrate musicality through rhythmic accuracy, phrasing, and dynamic response to accompaniment. Performance skills such as expression, projection, and stage presence are also evaluated within simple to moderate sequences and dances.

    RAD Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Dance: Grade 3 (Ballet)

    7 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    RAD Vocational Graded Examination in Ballet: Intermediate

    This subtopic assesses the candidate's ability to integrate secure ballet technique, refined musicality, and expressive performance skills within a range of challenging movement sequences at the Intermediate vocational level. Practical application focuses on demonstrating readiness for advanced vocational studies and professional training through consistent application of RAD syllabus fundamentals, including correct placement, alignment, and dynamic quality.

    RAD Level 3 Certificate in Vocational Graded Examination in Dance: Intermediate (Ballet)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    RAD Vocational Graded Examination in Ballet: Advanced Foundation

    This Advanced Foundation ballet examination assesses the candidate's ability to perform a range of increasingly complex movement sequences with technical accuracy, expressive musicality, and confident performance quality. It consolidates the dancer's understanding of advanced ballet vocabulary and technique, demanding secure placement, control of rotation, and fluidity in transitions. The syllabus serves as a bridge to professional training, emphasizing the integration of technical skill with artistic interpretation.

    RAD Level 3 Certificate in Vocational Graded Examination in Dance: Advanced Foundation (Ballet)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    RAD Graded Examination in Dance: Grade 2 (Creative Training: Ballet)

    This subtopic focuses on consolidating foundational ballet technique at Grade 2 level, expanding the dancer's movement vocabulary with greater emphasis on precision, coordination, and musicality. It develops creative expression within structured exercises, encouraging students to perform with emerging confidence and a clear sense of audience awareness. The work builds readiness for more complex sequences and performance contexts.

    RAD Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Dance: Grade 2 (Creative Training)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    RAD Vocational Graded Examination in Ballet: Advanced 2

    The Advanced 2 examination represents the culmination of the RAD vocational graded syllabi, demanding a synthesis of refined classical technique, artistic maturity, and professional readiness. Candidates perform complex enchaînements and variations that integrate advanced vocabulary—such as multiple turns, intricate allegro, and expressive adage—with a heightened sense of musical dynamics and performance projection. This element assesses the dancer’s ability to embody the stylistic nuances of ballet while demonstrating the stamina, control, and interpretive skills essential for pre-professional training.

    RAD Level 4 Diploma in Vocational Graded Examination in Dance: Advanced 2 (Ballet)

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Classical Ballet Repertoire Level 3: Class

    This unit focuses on the execution of advanced classical ballet exercises within a structured 'class' format, requiring candidates to demonstrate technical precision, musical responsiveness, and expressive performance quality across demanding sequences. Mastery of secure technique, nuanced musicality, and compelling artistry is assessed through progressively complex barre and centre work.

    RAD Level 3 Certificate in Classical Ballet Repertoire

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Solo Performance Award in Dance: Grade 2

    This element assesses the learner's ability to perform three set solo dances from the RAD Grade 2 syllabus, integrating fundamental ballet technique, musical awareness, and expressive performance. It evaluates technical precision—such as posture, turnout, and coordination—while demanding clear artistic interpretation and confident communication with the audience.

    RAD Level 1 Award in Solo Performance in Dance: Grade 2

    5 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    RAD Vocational Graded Examination in Ballet: Advanced 1

    RAD Advanced 1 Ballet focuses on consolidating advanced technical vocabulary and artistic maturity. Learners apply secure ballet technique, musical sensitivity, and expressive performance skills to complex sequences, often including pointe work. This level prepares dancers for pre-professional proficiency, emphasizing precision, stamina, and individual artistry.

    RAD Level 4 Certificate in Vocational Graded Examination in Dance: Advanced 1 (Ballet)

    6 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    RAD Graded Examination in Ballet: Grade 8

    The RAD Grade 8 Ballet examination represents the culmination of graded ballet training, requiring the learner to synthesise advanced technical proficiency, nuanced musicality, and expressive performance across ballet, character and free movement genres. Candidates perform complex enchaînements and solo dances that demand refined coordination, strength, and artistic interpretation, demonstrating readiness for vocational or professional pathways in dance.

    RAD Level 3 Certificate in Graded Examination in Dance: Grade 8 (Ballet)

    6 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    RAD Graded Examination in Ballet: Grade 7

    RAD Grade 7 ballet examination consolidates advanced classical technique, emphasizing precision, control, and expressive artistry. Candidates perform complex enchaînements and variations that demand refined épaulement, dynamic musicality, and strong performance projection, bridging graded work and vocational readiness.

    RAD Level 3 Certificate in Graded Examination in Dance: Grade 7 (Ballet)

    5 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    RAD Graded Examination in Dance: Grade 1 (Creative Training: Ballet)

    This subtopic focuses on developing foundational classical ballet technique at the Grade 1 level, where learners expand their movement vocabulary through structured exercises that emphasise correct posture, alignment, and coordination. Practical application centres on the integration of basic ballet movements with musicality, enabling students to perform with a sense of timing and rhythm, while also building confidence to engage an audience through controlled, expressive performance.

    RAD Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Dance: Grade 1 (Creative Training)

    1 learning outcomes11 guidance points

    RAD Graded Examination in Ballet: Grade 1

    This subtopic focuses on the foundational techniques and artistry required for the Royal Academy of Dance Grade 1 ballet examination. Learners will develop core ballet skills including posture, alignment, coordination, and basic steps, while integrating musicality and expressive performance. The assessment evaluates the dancer's ability to execute simple movement sequences and dances with technical accuracy, rhythmic awareness, and engaging performance quality.

    RAD Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Dance: Grade 1 (Ballet)

    6 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Solo Performance Award in Dance: Grade 3

    This element assesses the candidate's ability to perform three solo dances of increasing complexity, integrating technical accuracy, musical sensitivity, and expressive performance. The focus is on demonstrating a secure foundation in ballet technique, clear musicality, and an engaging stage presence, all essential for progression in dance. Successful candidates show consistent application of correct posture, alignment, and controlled execution across the varied choreography.

    RAD Level 1 Award in Solo Performance in Dance: Grade 3

    1 learning outcomes4 guidance points

    RAD Graded Examination in Ballet: Grade 5

    This subtopic covers the performance of Grade 5 RAD ballet syllabus exercises, including centre work, adage, pirouettes, allegro, and variation études. It assesses the integration of secure technique, sensitive musicality, and expressive performance quality required at this intermediate level, preparing candidates for advanced vocational training.

    RAD Level 2 Award in Graded Examination in Dance: Grade 5 (Ballet)

    1 learning outcomes7 guidance points

    Classical Ballet Repertoire Level 2: Class

    The RAD Level 2 Certificate in Classical Ballet Repertoire: Class consolidates intermediate ballet technique through structured barre and centre exercises, emphasising the seamless integration of secure placement, coordinated épaulement, and dynamic musical response. This class format challenges learners to execute moderately demanding enchaînements with clarity and control, bridging foundational training with the expressive demands of classical repertoire, and fostering the stamina and artistry essential for performance contexts.

    RAD Level 2 Certificate in Classical Ballet Repertoire

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    RAD Graded Examination in Dance: Grade 5 (Creative Training: Ballet)

    This subtopic focuses on the Grade 5 Creative Training syllabus, which integrates advanced classical ballet technique with expressive performance. Candidates are required to demonstrate refined technical execution, musicality, and stylistic coherence in longer, more complex sequences. The assessment emphasizes both the consolidation of fundamental skills and the emergence of artistic confidence, preparing learners for higher vocational training or professional development.

    RAD Level 2 Award in Graded Examination in Dance: Grade 5 (Creative Training)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Classical Ballet Repertoire Level 4: Class

    This subtopic centers on the execution of advanced classical ballet exercises within a traditional class structure, demanding secure technical proficiency, nuanced musicality, and compelling performance quality. It develops the stamina, coordination, and artistic insight required for vocational-level repertoire, bridging the gap between studio training and professional expectations.

    RAD Level 4 Certificate in Classical Ballet Repertoire

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    RAD Vocational Graded Examination in Ballet: Intermediate Foundation

    The Intermediate Foundation ballet examination assesses the dancer's ability to execute moderately challenging sequences that integrate established ballet technique with emerging artistry. Candidates demonstrate secure alignment, controlled turnout, and precise footwork while responding to musical phrasing and dynamics. This level bridges foundational training and more advanced vocational study, requiring both physical competence and expressive performance quality.

    RAD Level 2 Certificate in Vocational Graded Examination in Dance: Intermediate Foundation (Ballet)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Solo Performance Award in Dance: Grade 4

    This subtopic requires the learner to perform three contrasting dances of moderate difficulty, integrating technical precision, musical interpretation, and expressive performance. It assesses the candidate's ability to apply foundational dance skills in a solo context, demonstrating control, coordination, and stylistic awareness. Mastery involves seamless execution of set exercises and variations, reflecting the RAD's emphasis on artistry and physical competence.

    RAD Level 2 Award in Solo Performance in Dance: Grade 4

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Entry Level Award In Graded Examination in Dance: Primary in Dance

    The Primary in Dance level introduces young learners to the fundamental principles of ballet and creative movement, focusing on basic anatomy, spatial awareness, and expressive performance. Through structured exercises and imaginative sequences, students develop physical coordination, musicality, and the ability to communicate simple narratives, establishing a solid foundation for progressive dance training.

    RAD Entry Level Award In Graded Examination in Dance: Primary in Dance

    1 learning outcomes20 guidance points

    Classical Ballet Repertoire Level 2: Variation 1

    This subtopic centres on the performance of a set classical ballet variation from the RAD Level 2 repertoire, designed to consolidate moderately demanding technical and artistic skills. The learner integrates secure ballet technique—such as controlled turns, precise footwork, and sustained balances—with expressive musicality and performance qualities. Mastery of this variation serves as a practical demonstration of vocational readiness for progression in dance training or performance contexts.

    RAD Level 2 Certificate in Classical Ballet Repertoire

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Classical Ballet Repertoire Level 3: Variation 1

    This subtopic centres on the performance of a set classical variation from the RAD Level 3 syllabus, demanding a synthesis of advanced technical security, musical responsiveness, and expressive artistry. At this level, candidates must demonstrate a mature integration of ballet fundamentals—such as refined turnout, strong core stability, and precise footwork—within the stylistic context of the chosen repertoire, ensuring that technical execution serves the narrative and musical intention of the variation. Mastery is evidenced through seamless transitions, elevated spatial awareness, and a compelling stage presence that communicates the character and mood of the piece to the examiner or audience.

    RAD Level 3 Certificate in Classical Ballet Repertoire

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Classical Ballet Repertoire Level 4: Variation 1

    This element focuses on the performance of a set classical ballet variation, typically extracted from renowned repertoire, which integrates challenging development exercises to consolidate advanced technical skills. It requires the learner to execute complex steps with precision, while simultaneously embodying the stylistic and expressive nuances of the ballet. Success in this component demonstrates a synthesis of secure technique, refined musicality, and compelling performance artistry essential for progression in professional dance training.

    RAD Level 4 Certificate in Classical Ballet Repertoire

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Classical Ballet Repertoire Level 4: Variation 2

    This subtopic focuses on the execution of Variation 2 from the classical ballet repertoire at Level 4 standard, requiring the dancer to integrate advanced technical skills, nuanced musicality, and expressive performance quality. Learners must demonstrate secure technique, precise timing, and artistic interpretation within the stylistic demands of the chosen repertoire, reflecting a holistic command of ballet vocabulary.

    RAD Level 4 Certificate in Classical Ballet Repertoire

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Classical Ballet Repertoire Level 2: Variation 2

    Classical Ballet Repertoire Level 2: Variation 2 focuses on consolidating technical security, musicality, and performance skills through a set variation from the RAD syllabus. It requires learners to execute moderately demanding enchaînements with clean lines, accurate footwork, and expressive artistry, demonstrating readiness for progression to higher levels.

    RAD Level 2 Certificate in Classical Ballet Repertoire

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Classical Ballet Repertoire Level 3: Variation 2

    This subtopic focuses on the performance of a more demanding classical ballet variation, requiring the learner to integrate secure technical execution with artistic interpretation. It assesses the dancer's ability to maintain alignment, turnout, and control throughout complex enchaînements, while conveying musical phrasing and expressive dynamics. The variation serves as a culmination of developmental exercises, showcasing the dancer's stamina, precision, and performance quality.

    RAD Level 3 Certificate in Classical Ballet Repertoire

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

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    Royal Academy of Dance Vocational Dance & Performing Arts