Examinations Page

Taking exams not only develops technical skills and provides recognised qualifications but also gives students a clear goal to work toward. Studies show that children are more likely to commit to their extracurricular activities when they have a specific goal in mind. Exams offer a structured pathway for students to demonstrate their improvement and build confidence as they progress.

Successfully completing an exam allows students to advance to the next level, providing them with motivation and a sense of accomplishment. This ongoing progression encourages regular participation, making them more likely to stay engaged in their activity and develop a long-term passion for dance.

Taking dance grades can significantly enhance your career in the dance industry in several ways:

Structured Learning and Skill Development: Dance grades provide a clear, progressive framework that helps dancers systematically develop their technique, musicality, and performance skills. Each grade level introduces more complex movements and artistic expression, giving dancers a solid foundation for both performance and teaching careers​

Recognition and Qualifications: Completing dance exams, provides formal qualifications that are recognised internationally. These qualifications not only demonstrate proficiency but are often required for teaching positions, whether in schools, studios, or private dance academies​

Career Opportunities: Dance grades are essential for dancers pursuing professional paths, such as teaching, choreography, or performance. For instance, having advanced dance qualifications opens doors to teaching certifications like the Level 4 Diploma in Dance Education, allowing you to teach and mentor others. Moreover, they serve as a prerequisite for further education in dance-related fields, including degree programs and postgraduate studies​

UCAS Points and Further Education: Higher-level dance grades (e.g., Grades 6, 7, and 8) can contribute UCAS points, which are valuable when applying for university courses.

Overall, taking dance grades provides formal recognition of your abilities, enhances your skills in a structured way, and opens up numerous career pathways, including performance, teaching, and further academic opportunities in dance.

Copy of Exam Letter 

Dear Parent/Guardian,

I am excited to inform you that your child, ____________________   , has made significant progress in their classes and is now ready to take their exam ___________________

These exams provide a wonderful opportunity for students to showcase their hard work, dedication, and growth in dance. It is truly rewarding for them to receive formal recognition for their efforts.

Exam Details:

Date of Exam(s): Friday, 28th & Saturday, 29th March 2025

Location: Base Dance Performing Arts Academy

Schedule:

Friday, 28th March: From 4:30 pm – Higher grades (approximately Grades 2/3 and above), starting with School Year 3 and progressing to senior classes 

Saturday, 29th March: From 2:00 pm – Early years, School Years 1 & 2, and School Years 3–6 of lower grades (Grade 1 and below), starting with the youngest students.

Why Take Dance Exams?

Taking dance grades develops technical skills, provides recognised qualifications, and sets clear goals. Exams motivate students by showcasing their progress, building confidence, and encouraging consistent participation. Successfully completing exams fosters a sense of accomplishment and inspires a lasting passion for dance.

What’s Involved:

Consistent attendance is essential for exam preparation. If your child has multiple absences, we may recommend postponing the exam or booking a private lesson to ensure readiness. If your child is not fully prepared by the exam date, we may suggest rescheduling to ensure a positive and rewarding experience. 

Exam Awards Presentation:

We are delighted to invite you to our Exam Awards Presentation, which will take place on Saturday, 26th April 2025, estimated times between 1:30–5:30 pm at BDPA.

This event will be a community celebration, and to keep it free of additional costs, we kindly ask each family to contribute a dish to a small buffet. More details will follow closer to the date, but for now, please save the date and time!

Exam Fees & Payment:

Your child’s teacher has indicated the exam style and level below. If your child takes multiple classes, you may receive more than one letter.

Exam Style to select on the payment form: __________________________________

Level of Exam to Select on the Payment Form:_________________________________

Please make payment via the website: https://www.base-dance.com/examinations

Payment Deadline: Monday, 3rd March 2025

Siblings: Please only submit one form for each child 

Unfortunately, we cannot enter your child for their exam without payment.

Please Note: Once payment has been made, no refunds will be issued after the exam board invoice is paid, except in cases of illness (with a doctor’s certificate).

Exam Day Dress Code:

Please ensure your child is in the appropriate attire and hairstyle for their exam. Their exam attire and hair should match what they wear in regular classes, including suitable footwear.

Important: 

Attire cannot be purchased on the exam day, so please plan ahead.

No jewellery (including earrings), nail varnish, false nails, fake tattoos, or accessories are permitted.

Please ensure your child brings the necessary hair accessories (bun net and hairpins). There will be no assistance with hair on the day.

Exam Timetable:

The official timetable will be released on Thursday, 6th March 2025, following the payment deadline. Participants must be signed up, and fees must be paid before we can create and release the timetable.

Confirmation:

By making payment by Monday, 3rd March 2025, you are confirming your child’s participation in the exam.

For more information about exams and to make payment, including FAQs, visit our website: https://www.base-dance.com/examinations

Thank you for your continued support. We look forward to celebrating your child’s achievements!

Kind Regards,

Claire Lloyd

Principal, BDPA

To be updated 

If your child is unable to attend the scheduled exam date, or if the teacher has suggested that your child is not ready to take their exam due to absences, we may recommend submitting a recorded exam. Please note, this option is only available under certain circumstances and should not be considered as an alternative to attending the live exam. Alternatively, your child can take their exam at the next available exam session.

Exams cannot be filmed during regular class time. Parents will need to book a private lesson with the Principal and teacher, at a cost of £30 for the private session and administration, to have their child’s exam recorded and submitted to the examiner. This option ensures that your child can still complete their exam while adhering to the required standards for submission.

The official timetables will be released following the payment deadline, to avoid too many changes.