Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) Curriculum

Royal Academy of Dance registered teacher logo.

At Verdi Academy of Dance, our ballet program follows the internationally recognized Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) curriculum, providing students with a structured pathway for developing strong ballet technique, artistry, musicality, and confidence.

Founded in 1920, the Royal Academy of Dance is one of the world’s leading dance education organizations, with a syllabus taught in more than 80 countries. The RAD curriculum is designed to develop dancers progressively, building skills through age-appropriate training and carefully structured levels.

A Progressive Approach to Ballet Training

The RAD syllabus guides students through each stage of their ballet development, from their first introduction to movement through advanced vocational training. Each level builds upon previous skills while encouraging proper technique, body awareness, musical understanding, and artistic expression.

At Verdi Academy, students progress through the RAD levels based on teacher assessment and readiness, ensuring each dancer receives the appropriate challenge and support for their individual growth.

We believe ballet training is about more than learning steps. Ballet develops confident, disciplined, and expressive dancers while nurturing skills that extend beyond the studio. Through dedication, perseverance, teamwork, and self-confidence, students gain valuable tools that support them throughout their lives while developing a lifelong appreciation for the art of dance.

  • RAD Ballet Levels

    • Pre-Primary

    • Primary

    • Grade 1

    • Grade 2

    • Grade 3

    • Grade 4

    • Grade 5

  • The RAD Vocational syllabus is designed for dancers seeking more advanced ballet training. Students develop greater technical precision, strength, stamina, artistry, and performance quality.

    • Intermediate Foundation

    • Intermediate

    • Advanced Foundation

    • Advanced 1

  • Students may have the opportunity to participate in RAD examinations as part of their ballet training. Exams provide dancers with a goal to work toward while developing discipline, confidence, and performance skills.

    Examinations are prepared carefully by our teachers and are offered when students demonstrate the appropriate level of readiness.

  • The RAD curriculum provides dancers with:

    • A clear and progressive pathway for ballet development

    • Strong technical foundations

    • Emphasis on safe and healthy movement

    • Development of musicality and artistry

    • Opportunities for achievement and personal growth

    • Internationally recognized training standards

Two ballet dancers in black leotards practicing at the barre in a dance studio.