ROYAL ACADEMY OF DANCE
BALLET EXAMS
Our Ballet classes follow the prestigious Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) syllabus, the largest ballet organisation internationally. For students looking to boost confidence, refine technique, and receive a grading, we offer Class Awards, Exams, and Solo Performance Awards. These are held annually in November or early December at our Roseville studios, with exact dates confirmed one month prior.
If this is your first exam: Exams are exciting and rewarding - over 80% of our ballet students participate each year! We have a 100% success rate, and many dancers walk out of their exam asking, "Can we do that again?!" Younger students (Kindy & Yr 1) are guided by their teacher in the exam room and all RAD examiners are experienced teachers who create a positive, supportive environment to ensure a rewarding experience.
HOW TO ENTER
Entries are booked and paid for via our online shop. Please write your child's name as you’d like it to appear on their certificate in the "make a note" section.
Entries open in Term 2 & close on 20th July (9pm).
Late entries cannot be accepted by RAD, so please don’t delay.
ARE THERE EXTRA EXAM REHEARSALS?
To participate in exams, students must attend:
✔ Two weekend rehearsals: Saturday 18th & 25th October
✔ Two holiday classes (or private lessons if away)
✔ Their weekly Ballet class
These rehearsals help students practice in the exam space (they are assessed on spatial awareness), refine technique and build confidence performing their dances. If your child misses these extra rehearsals they will not be able to participate and the exam fee will be forfeited.
WEEKEND REHEARSALS (included in the exam fee)
Roseville Studio – 28 Lord St, Roseville
Saturday 18th & 25th October 2025:
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Pre-Primary & Primary: 9:30am - 10:30am
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Grade 1 & 2: 10:30am - 12:00pm
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Grade 3, 4 & 5: 12:00pm - 1:30pm
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Intermediate Foundation: 1:30pm - 2:30pm
If your child misses a rehearsal due to illness, a 30-minute private lesson ($65) will be required to catch up. No refunds/credits for missed rehearsals.
HOLIDAY CLASSES (not included in the exam fee)
Roseville Studio – 28 Lord St, Roseville
Thursday 10th & Friday 11th October, 9am - 3pm
✔ Pack morning tea, lunch, and a water bottle
✔ Holiday class costs are not included in the exam entry fee – Book here
If away, private lessons must be booked. Email Regina: info@sdga.com.au to organise.
PRIVATE LESSONS
Most students don’t require extra lessons, as all exam content is covered in weekly classes, rehearsals, and holiday classes. However, if additional practice is needed or your child has missed lessons or rehearsals, private lessons are available:
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30 mins – $65
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60 mins – $85
📩 Email Regina: info@sdga.com.au
HOME PRACTICE WITH THE ROYAL ACADEMY OF DANCE APP
The Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) app – "RAD VIDEO" allows students to watch and follow official RAD videos for extra practice. Even a quick weekend review can boost confidence & retention. The app is free to download, and grades can be purchased separately.
EXAM FEES
TBC term 2 when set by the Royal Academy of dance
WHAT DO STUDENTS WEAR IN EXAMS?
EXAM UNIFORM
✔ Leotards are provided by SDGA on the exam day (hire is included in the exam fee).
✔ Girls are to provide their own ballet stockings (pale pink or skin tone) and ballet shoes (canvas or leather, no embellishments).
✔ Boys will be provided with a white leotard or t-shirt and are to provide their own plain black or navy leggings, white socks and white ballet shoes.
EXAM HAIR
Girls require a ballet bun for exams, the same as for our concerts. Our teacher are happy to assist on the day - please bring hairpins, nets, or purchase a bun kit through our shop. A hair ribbon will be added when you arrive at your exam. Boys require neat hair.
Exam invitations will be sent to eligible students during term 2. We’re excited for another fantastic exam season—let us know if you have any questions! info@sdga.com.au