Exams are optional at our school. Although we do encourage them, they are not right for everyone’s needs.

We believe taking dance exams provides the children with a good work ethic knowing if they work hard, they can achieve.

A dance exam is not easy and students have to learn a lot of exercises to demonstrate to the best of their ability. We are always proud of our students for their hard work and determination at exam time.

We are very proud to be an Imperial society of teachers of dance, school.

The Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing (ISTD) is one of the world’s leading dance examination boards. Students at Lksa can take ISTD exams in ballet and tap.

The ISTD syllabus has a clearly defined structure and allows learning to take place in the context of safe dance practice.

The examination structure of the ISTD is designed to cater equally for those who wish to progress to making dance their profession, either as a performer or dance teacher, and for those pursuing dance purely as a leisure activity.

Class exams-

These are taken in groups of up to 5 children. Their teacher will go into the exam room with them and conduct the class. The examiner will observe the students doing the prepared syllabus and give each child an individual mark.

Grade exams

These are taken solo or in twos and the students go into the exam alone. The examiner conducts the exam and watches the prepared syllabus exercises. In grade exams, free work is also given by the examiner, the examiner will verbally direct the students using the French terminology to create a combination not known to the students.

The exams start from pre primary which can be taken approx age 6. It then goes to primary and then on to grade 1-6 Ofqual accredited or standard 1-8 for class exams.

For the more serious dancer after reaching grade 6/standard 8 vocational exams can be taken. UCAS points can be gained from passing these high level exams.

We will let you know when you or your child is ready to take an exam. Please remember all children progress at different rates.

We are very proud to have 100% pass rate with the ISTD exams.