Learn To Dance has been preparing students for NATD Ballroom and Latin American examinations for almost as long as we've run classes (and we started in 2006!).
Our students currently work across a wide range of levels, from absolute beginners up to those that have been dancing for decades, with each examination providing an opportunity to recognise progress, improve technique and celebrate a personal achievement.
Dance exams are entirely optional. Some students enjoy progressing steadily from one award to the next, while others choose an examination to mark a particular stage in their dancing. There is no requirement to compete, complete every level or work to somebody else’s timetable.
A personal achievement at your own pace
There are many reasons to work towards a dance examination.
You may enjoy having a clear goal, want to focus more closely on your technique or simply feel that it would be rewarding to have your progress formally recognised.
For some students, an examination provides extra motivation and structure. For others, it is a chance to prove to themselves how far they have come.
Whatever your reason, we will help you work towards an examination that is appropriate for your dancing, your experience and the amount of time you would like to commit.
Nearly 20 years of examination experience
NATD examinations have formed part of Learn To Dance’s teaching programme for almost our entire 20-year history.
During that time, we have helped students prepare for their first medal, progress through successive grades and work towards advanced awards, as well as compete (and win) in National competitions.
Our current examination students range from dancers preparing for Bronze through to experienced students working towards Premier Award (8th out of 9 possible levels).
That breadth of experience means we understand that every student approaches examinations differently. Some thrive on having a deadline, while others prefer a more gradual preparation period. Some enjoy working through the grades in sequence, while others take an examination only when it feels like the right personal goal.
There is no one-size-fits-all route.
Why take a dance examination?
An examination can help you:
- work towards a clear and achievable goal;
- improve your technique and understanding;
- develop greater consistency;
- build confidence in your dancing;
- recognise the progress you have made;
- focus your practice more effectively;
- receive formal recognition of your achievement; and
- prepare for NATD medallist competitions, should you wish to compete.
The result is important, but the preparation itself is often just as valuable. Students frequently find that working towards an examination improves not only the selected routines, but their dancing more generally.
Ballroom and Latin American examinations
Students may work towards examinations in Ballroom, Latin American or both.
Ballroom dances:
- Waltz;
- Tango;
- Foxtrot;
- Quickstep; and
- Viennese Waltz.
Latin American dances:
- Cha Cha Cha;
- Samba;
- Rumba;
- Paso Doble; and
- Jive.
'Club' dances:
- Argentine Tango;
- Salsa;
- Mambo; and
- Merengue.
The dances required will depend on the examination, grade and route being followed.
We will explain exactly what is involved before you decide whether to proceed.
From Bronze to Premier Award
Students can progress through a range of recognised medals and awards, building on their experience as their dancing develops.
At Learn To Dance, our current examination students are working at levels ranging from Bronze to Premier Award.
Some students enjoy progressing regularly through the grades. Others prefer to spend longer developing their dancing between examinations, or work towards an award only when they feel ready for a new challenge.
There is no obligation to complete every grade, and there is no fixed timetable.
We will recommend a level that reflects your current dancing, previous examination experience and personal goals.
Do I need to be an advanced dancer?
No.
Examinations are designed to recognise progress at different stages of a dancer’s development.
For one student, the achievement may be completing their first Bronze examination. For another, it may be progressing towards an advanced award after many years of dancing.
What matters is that the examination is suitable for you and that you have had sufficient time to prepare confidently.
You do not need to regard yourself as one of the studio’s strongest dancers before asking about an exam.
Reliability, practice, preparation and a willingness to learn are often more important than natural ability.
Do I have to compete?
No.
Many Learn To Dance students take examinations purely as a personal achievement and never enter a competition.
Examinations and competitions are separate opportunities.
Some students enjoy working through examination grades without any interest in competing. Others use an appropriate examination as part of the pathway into NATD Medallist of the Year competitions.
Both approaches are equally valid.
How the examination process works
1. Talk to us
Speak to Antony, Emma or your regular teacher about your interest in taking an examination.
We will discuss your current dancing, previous experience and what you would like to achieve.
2. Choose an appropriate examination
We will recommend a suitable Ballroom or Latin American examination and explain the dances and level involved.
Previous examinations taken with Learn To Dance or another organisation should be mentioned so that we can confirm the correct route.
3. Prepare your routines
Preparation may take place through a combination of:
- regular group classes;
- private lessons;
- supervised practice;
- independent practice; and
- examination preparation sessions.
The amount of additional tuition required will vary according to the examination and the student.
4. Confirm that you are ready
Before entering you, we will make sure that you understand the required routines and feel sufficiently prepared.
The aim is for examination day to feel like a positive opportunity to demonstrate your dancing, rather than something rushed or unnecessarily stressful.
5. Take your examination
Your examination will be arranged through the National Association of Teachers of Dancing.
We will provide the practical information you need, including timings, clothing guidance and what to expect on the day.
6. Receive your result
Once results are available, we will share them with you, review the examiner's comments, and discuss your next steps.
7. Receive your medal/trophy
Normally around 6 weeks after receiving your results, you'll receive the medal or trophy for the level you've achieved.
8. Next step
You may decide to work towards another examination, continue developing your dancing without a new deadline or simply enjoy the achievement you have completed.
Preparing for your examination
The preparation required will differ from one student to another.
Some students may already know much of the relevant material through their regular classes. Others may need additional tuition to refine technique, develop presentation or learn examination-specific routines.
Before you commit, we will explain:
- the proposed examination;
- the dances involved;
- the likely preparation required;
- any recommended private lessons or practices;
- the examination fee; and
- the expected timescale.
We will not enter you for an examination until we believe the goal is appropriate and achievable.
A supportive, non-pressured approach
We understand that the word “exam” can make some people nervous.
Dance examinations are not intended to take the enjoyment out of dancing. They are an opportunity to demonstrate what you have learned and receive recognition for the work you have put in.
Making a small mistake does not mean that an entire examination has gone wrong. Examiners are assessing the overall standard of your dancing at the relevant level.
Our role is to prepare you thoroughly, explain what to expect and help you approach the day with confidence.
Who can take an examination?
NATD examinations may be suitable for:
- adult beginners who would enjoy a first structured goal;
- established students who want to recognise their progress;
- Leaders and Followers;
- students who attend regular group classes;
- students taking private lessons;
- established dance couples;
- individuals who do not have a regular partner;
- experienced dancers progressing towards advanced awards; and
- students preparing for medallist competitions.
Age is not a barrier. We teach adults across a broad range of ages and will recommend an appropriate route based on your dancing rather than assumptions about how old an examination student “should” be.
Interested in taking a dance examination?
Whether you are considering your first Bronze examination, returning to exams after a break or working towards an advanced award, we would be happy to discuss the possibilities with you.
Completing the form below is simply an enquiry. It does not commit you to an examination, additional tuition or any payment.
We will review your information and contact you to discuss an appropriate next step.