By Kenisha Rao
The Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing (ISTD) stands as a prestigious institution in the world of dance education, rooted in the heart of London, England. Under the leadership of its current Chair, Michael Elliot, the ISTD has cultivated a legacy of excellence and innovation in dance teaching since its inception. This renowned organisation is dedicated to promoting the art and science of dance across the globe, ensuring high standards of training and examination.
The ISTD is structured into two main branches: Dancesport and Theatre. Dancesport encompasses competitive ballroom and Latin American dance styles, fostering both technical prowess and artistic expression. This branch supports dancers in achieving excellence in a competitive environment, emphasising precision, style, and performance quality.
Meanwhile, the Theatre faculty offers a diverse range of dance disciplines, including Cecchetti Classical Ballet, Classical Greek Dance, Classical Indian Dance, Contemporary Dance, Imperial Classical Ballet, Modern Theatre, National Dance, and Tap. Each of these disciplines is supported by a comprehensive syllabus that blends tradition with contemporary practices, ensuring dancers receive a well-rounded education.
Syllabus
The Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing (ISTD) is known for its commitment to providing high-quality dance education. It offers a range of meticulously crafted syllabi designed to support dancers at every stage of their development. Notably, the ISTD incorporates the esteemed Cecchetti method into its curriculum.
Examinations and Events :
The ISTD is a cornerstone for dance education, offering comprehensive training and classes across various styles. Their rigorous examination system consisting of medal tests, grade exams and vocational exams serves as a benchmark for dancers’ skill development and progression. The ISTD also offers teaching exams, ensuring that instructors meet high standards of excellence. These teaching qualifications provide a structured pathway for aspiring dance teachers, encompassing theoretical knowledge and practical skills, and ensuring they are well-equipped to inspire and educate the next generation of dancers.
Furthermore, the ISTD extends beyond education and examination, actively engaging with the dance community through events and competitions. Through these events, the ISTD awards scholarships, recognizing exceptional talent and providing opportunities for further growth and advancement in the vibrant world of dance.
Organisations which offer examinations :
When it comes to classical ballet training, several reputable organisations offer examinations to assess dancers’ proficiency and progress. These examinations provide structured assessment systems, ensuring recognition for dancers’ dedication and skill development. Other than the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing (ISTD), among the most prominent organisations offering such examinations are:
British Ballet Organization (BBO)
International Dance Teachers Association (IDTA)
British Theatre Dance Association (BTDA)
The British Association of Teachers of Dancing (BATD)
National Association of Teachers of Dancing (NATD)
Professional Teachers of Dancing Examinations (PTD)
Royal Academy of Dance (RAD)
Participating in dance exams offers a valuable opportunity for growth and excellence in the dance world. It provides structured training, valuable feedback, and recognized qualifications that can propel dancers toward their goals. Whether pursuing a career in dance or simply honing skills and passion, dance exams serve as a pathway to success and fulfilment in the dynamic and inspiring world of dance.
Benefits of taking an ISTD exam
Dance exams and tests can be highly rewarding for your child, fostering a wide range of personal, social, physical, and mental well-being. They help develop personal skills such as the ability to analyse, apply knowledge, commitment, confidence, concentration, conviction, and cooperation and teamwork. Additionally, technical skills are enhanced, including accuracy, application of feedback and technique, coordination, creative engagement, fitness, flexibility, kinesthetic awareness, mastery, memory, movement intensity, placement, rhythm, sensitivity to cultural and stylistic influences, stamina, strength, timing, and understanding of anatomy and physiology.
They also provide a measure of achievement in technical ability, musicality, and performance skills, from beginner to professional levels. They offer high-quality constructive feedback through a tested marking framework, and exam certification acknowledges achievement, which is crucial for those pursuing a dance career. Grade 6 and Intermediate exams carry UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admission Services) points, aiding further education progression. Syllabi, based on professional teaching experiences, provide safe, age-appropriate training with exciting goals. Exams foster increased work ethic, focus, and pride in success. ISTD teachers have rigorous qualifications and ongoing professional development. Exams enhance performance, creativity, critical self-reflection, discipline, individuality, well-being, perseverance, problem-solving, respect, response to feedback, self-challenge, self-management, self-motivation, goal setting, and cultural appreciation. Exams are a great opportunity to showcase your hard work and personal growth as a student of dance.
Taking Exams with TLFCB
We take great care to ensure that our students are fully prepared for the examination experience. Our students enter the exam studio confident, strong and with complete clarity on what is expected of them technically and artistically during the examination. Teachers and students work together over the course of many months along with extra classes tuned towards preparing for the exams.
Preparing for these exams allows students to reach their full potential, remembering that the exam is not only about technical excellence, but also about having a deep understanding of the why’s and how’s of the technique. Our aim is that students are inspired by the preparation for the examination, and that they come out of the studio feeling that their effort and diligent work has paid off in a successful, enjoyable experience.
Tips for parents to support their child during dance exams
Stay Positive: Maintain a positive attitude and encourage your child to do their best.
Provide Support: Offer emotional support and be a good listener if your child has concerns.
Encourage Practice: Support your child’s practice efforts and provide a dedicated space for them to rehearse.
Help with Preparation: Assist your child in organising dance attire and equipment needed for the exam.
Manage Stress: Help your child manage pre-exam nerves by practising relaxation techniques or engaging in calming activities.
Stay Informed: Keep track of important exam dates and requirements to ensure everything is ready on time.
Celebrate Achievements: Acknowledge your child’s hard work and celebrate their achievements, regardless of the outcome.
Provide Practical Help: Offer assistance with transportation to and from the exam venue and ensure they have everything they need on the day.
Be Flexible: Understand that exam preparation can be stressful, so be patient and flexible with your child’s needs.
Focus on Enjoyment: Remind your child to enjoy the experience and have fun showcasing their skills during the exam.
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