Northern Dance Academy 2.56

Classes in RAD ballet NZAMD Contemporary
Pre-school dance
Open technique
Body conditioning
Small classes
Private lessons


Principal: Elizabeth Russell A.R.A.D RTS, A.I.S.T.D modern/national.
Diploma in dance teaching studies from the New Zealand school of Dance

Carel Jost 50+ years of teaching experience

The Royal Academy of Dance promotes knowledge, understanding and practice of dance internationally. The examination syllabus is taught to more than a quarter of a million students worldwide.
The Royal Academy of Dance is the largest international classical ballet education organisation in the World. They offer examinations in classical ballet for young children starting out in dance classes to the student aspiring to become a professional dancer.
The Academy aims to develop the highest possible standards of teaching. In New Zealand there is a nationwide network of more than 200 registered and caring teachers. These teachers attend courses regularly to continue their professional development.
Teachers following the Royal Academy system encourage young people to achieve their personal best in the understanding, appreciation and performance of classical ballet.
Whatever age or stage they may of reached, young people who study with an Academy
teacher can be confident they will be taught according to safe teaching principles and are
receiving the most comprehensive, well-structured and relevant programme of classical
ballet available.

New Zealand Association of Modern Dance-contemporary syllabus
NZAMD (New Zealand Association of Modern Dance) was the first New Zealand based
dance examination organisation, and is now one of the largest in the country with over
270 teacher members from Invercargill to the Far North, and nearly 14,000 students
involved in our examinations.

Examinations provide a goal to work towards and give a sense of achievement.
Grade examinations are in October/November
Vocational examinations are in May/August
Contemporary examinations vary.

Performances annually or biannually there will be a full production. Other performance
opportunities include studio performances, the annual Whangarei teacher’s concert,
competition performances and the Christmas parade.

Competitions provide performance opportunities that are invaluable. Children are able
to learn a solo/duo/trio that will challenge their step vocabulary. Classical, barefoot,
national character, demi-character, song and dance, contemporary, lyrical, refer to the
competition information at the studio, or request a copy, for more information.
Your child may be asked to participate in a group dance in the competitions.

Workshops and seminars are encouraged and there are many within New Zealand/Australia to
choose from.

Classes R.A.D ballet
Students may start with the Pre-School Dance Curriculum, move up through Pre-Primary and Primary levels and then into eight Graded levels or six Vocational Graded levels. Students may move from the Graded pathway to the Vocational Graded pathway at an appropriate time; or they may study both pathways simultaneously.
• The Pre-School Dance Curriculum develops basic movement skills, musical awareness, expression and creativity. Themed classes encourage class participation, focus and confidence that prepare students for entry to Pre-Primary levels. This curriculum is appropriate for students between the ages of three and five years.
• The Graded Examinations in Dance syllabus provides a broad practical dance education and develops technical, musical and performance skills. It incorporates ballet, free movement and character and with the new Pre-Primary in Dance and Primary in Dance it is appropriate for students from the age of five years.
• The Vocational Graded Examinations in Dance syllabus provides an in-depth study of ballet, develops technique, music and performance skills and introduces pointe work for female candidates. It prepares students for a career in dance and is appropriate for students from the age of ten or eleven years. Children must show the right amount of flexibility and strength in order to go into Vocational classes.
• The Solo Seal Award is the highest Vocational Graded examination and focuses on solo performance.
• Presentation Classes are an alternative to graded examinations. This may be a better option for children that have joined the dance year late. Pre-Primary in Dance is presentation class only.