RAD Vocational Ballet

The Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) Vocational Graded Ballet syllabus is designed for serious ballet students Grade 3 Ballet and up who are considering a career in dance. It provides a deep dive into classical ballet technique, preparing dancers for the rigors of professional training and performance, with a specific focus on pointe work for female candidates.

Here's a breakdown of the RAD Vocational Ballet syllabi:

• Levels: The syllabus progresses through five levels: Intermediate Foundation, Intermediate, Advanced Foundation, Advanced 1, and Advanced 2.

• Pointe Work Introduction: Pointe work is typically introduced at the Intermediate Foundation level, though this can vary depending on the student's individual development and strength. A teacher's evaluation of a student's individual development will determine when pointe work is appropriate. Pointe work requires strong feet, ankles, and core muscles. Proper training and conditioning are crucial to prevent injuries

• Focus: Each level builds upon the previous one, with a strong emphasis on technical skill development, musicality, and performance ability.

• Training: Students aiming for RAD Vocational Graded exams should be prepared for intensive training, both physically and mentally.

If you are interested in any of our Vocational Ballet classes, email us at mdcpupilinfo@aol.com for more information!

ISTD Vocational Modern

The Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing (ISTD) offers vocational graded examinations in Modern Theatre Dance following their set syllabus. This syllabus is designed to prepare students for a career in dance.

The ISTD vocational modern syllabi are divided into levels:

• Intermediate Foundation

• Intermediate

• Advanced 1

• Advanced 2

These levels focus on developing strong technique, artistry, and performance skills in Modern Dance.

Here's a summary of what the ISTD vocational modern syllabi aim to achieve:

• Technical Skills: Develop proper posture, a comprehensive understanding of modern dance techniques, and a strong sense of body line.

• Performance Skills: Enhance musicality, rhythm interpretation, and spatial awareness.

• Artistry: Cultivate self-expression, performance quality, and audience connection.

If you are interested in any of our Vocational Modern class, get in touch at mdcpupilinfo@aol.com!

The ISTD vocational tap syllabus is designed to equip dancers with a strong foundation in tap technique, while also nurturing their artistry and performance skills. It picks up where the graded examinations (pre-primary to Grade 6) leave off, offering a more intensive training program for those aiming for a professional dance career or higher-level teaching qualifications.

The syllabus emphasizes the following:

• Technical Proficiency: Correct posture, comprehensive tap technique, clear footwork with good tonal quality, and an understanding of tap terminology.

• Musicality: Understanding rhythm and its development, appreciating various musical styles and interpreting them through dance.

• Performance: Developing a sense of line and movement through the body, using space effectively, captivating the audience, and expressing oneself artistically.

• Creativity: Encouraging improvisation and using rhythm and movement creatively.

The ISTD offers three vocational grades: Intermediate, and Advanced 1 & 2. These equate to regulated qualifications on the Qualifications and Credit Framework.

If you are interested in our Vocational Tap classes, get in touch at mdcpupilinfo@aol.com