The Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing (ISTD) exams can be entered from five years of age. Students are encouraged to aim for qualifications, partly as a means of measuring their progress but also as a just reward for their months of dedication and hard work. However, it is not compulsory to do so. Those wishing to attend classes purely for fun are welcome to do so.
Students wishing to be entered for examinations may do so at the sole discretion of the Principal, and will be expected to have attended the required classes and achieved the relevant standard. Success in ISTD examinations requires a high standard of ability and performance, so dedication is required on the part of the student. Examinations take place twice per year, and are assessed by external examiners who visit the school.
Students should normally expect to study and work for one to two years before being entered for an examination. Those working towards examinations must attend two classes per week in the relevant examination subject. These classes are compulsory, and vital for students. Prior to the examinations themselves, additional classes may be needed for rehearsals. During this period, individual students will also be expected to perform their variations, amalgamations and dance solos count for 10 to 20 per cent of the examination mark.
Students taking exams must wear the specified uniforms. Examination and administration fees are charged by the examining body and are additional to the fees payable for the relevant term.
