Examinations in all disciplines are held in the Spring, usually in April.

Grades 1 to 3 will be expected to co-ordinate simple movements to produce a combination of steps, respond sensitively to music and perform with confidence before an audience (the examiner).

Grades 4 and 5 will be expected to demonstrate an increased range of movements in longer and more complex sequences, show an increased sensitivity to music and perform with increased confidence before an audience.

Grades 6 to 8 will be expected to demonstrate a comprehensive knowledge of dance movements, interpret music sensitively in performance and perform with confidence and self-awareness.

Students aged 11+ who want to study classical ballet in greater depth with a view to pursuing a career in dance, can follow the Vocational Graded syllabus. A minimum of three classes a week are necessary at the lowest level, increasing as progress is made towards the higher levels.

Students who do not take exams will still take Royal Academy of Dance classes and perform in a Presentation Class when they will receive an R.A.D. Certificate of Participation. This is a mark of achievement in itself.

Students can only be entered for an R.A.D. exam or Presentation Class by a teacher who holds Academy Registered Teacher status.

Modern Theatre Dance, Tap and Jazz exams are also usually held in April. Extra classes are necessary as of November up to the date of the examination. Students can only be entered for I.S.T.D. exams by a teacher who has her I.S.T.D. Associate or Diploma.

The examiners for dance examinations more often than not come from anywhere in the world. The R.A.D. and the I.S.T.D. have offices in over 62 countries where the same training is given. We have great respect for these hard working examiners who are carefully trained to follow strict quality assurance procedures.

The Orillia Dance Academy once again, in 2006, had 100% success in all exams in all disciplines. We get results!