RAD & Contemporary Dance
Royal Academy of Dance
Why Choose the RAD Dance Programme?
The Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) syllabus is one of the most globally recognized ballet training programs, offering a structured and progressive curriculum from beginners to advanced levels. Earning an RAD certification not only validates a dancer’s technical ability and artistry but also enhances discipline, confidence, and perseverance—qualities that benefit both professional and recreational dancers. For those pursuing dance as a career, an RAD certificate is an internationally respected credential, often required for professional training programs and teaching qualifications. Whether you’re looking to build strong foundations, challenge yourself, or gain an edge in dance education, the RAD programme is a mark of excellence that opens doors to further opportunities in the world of ballet.
For requirements, commitments, and policies, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.
At Kadence Ballet, we offer RAD exam grades starting from Grade 1 and onwards.
For children under 7 years old, we provide a Pre-Ballet programme that focuses on conditioning, stretching, coordination, and barre exercises to build a strong foundation in the early years, preparing them for future ballet training.
Class Levels
You will be prompted to create a profile in order to access registration. Registration for classes will open 14 days before the class and will close one hour prior to the class’ start time. Zoom information will be emailed to registered participants 30 minutes prior to the start of the class. Class fees must be paid at the time of purchase. There are no refunds, returns or exchanges on registrations.
GRADE 1 (7 yrs., born in 2018)
60 minutes
Students will be introduced to Ballet exercises from barre to centre work in a progressive manner – Plié, Tendu, Glissade, Fondu, Développé and Grand Battement. Students will also be introduced to Character Dance which focuses on rhythm and the use of upper body. Students will be prepared to perform two solos for the exam.
GRADE 2 (8 yrs., born in 2017)
60 minutes
Students will start to learn the full set of barre exercises (with both hands and one hand holding the barre). Centre work will be based on steps learnt at the barre – Plié, Tendu, Grand Battement, with emphasis on dance quality and performance skills. Students will learn Pirouettes (turns) and more complex jumps with changes in Ballet positions like Echappé, Soubresauts, Jeté and Grand allegro. Students will be prepared to perform two solos for the exam.
GRADE 3 (9 yrs., born in 2016)
60 minutes
Students will continue to expand their Ballet vocabulary at the barre and in the centre, with steps of increasing difficulty and complexity like Ronde de Jambe á terre, Adage, Sissonnes, Temp levés and different Pirouettes. Students are expected to learn to pay more attention to detail and focus, develop a keen eye and the ability to master dance movements and combinations. Students will be prepared to perform two solos for the exam.
GRADE 4 (10 yrs., born in 2015)
60 minutes
Students will continue to grow their Ballet vocabularies with longer exercise combinations of increasing complexity. Students will develop a clear knowledge and understanding of the Ballet technique. They will be able to demonstrate secure technical skills and show an understanding of musical interpretation including phrasing, dynamics and atmosphere. Students will be prepared to perform two solos for the exam.
GRADE 5 (11 yrs., born in 2014)
90 minutes
Strong emphasis will be given in this level to the building of ankle strength with increasing Demi-Pointe work and jumps to prepare them sufficiently for Pointe work in the following level. Students will continue working on their Ballet technique while learning to acquire a beautiful sense of expression, good performance skills with self-confidence and a strong presence on stage. Students will be prepared to perform two solos for the exam.
Intermediate Foundation Year 1 (12 yrs., born in 2013)
90 minutes
In this first level of RAD Vocational Graded Examination level, class training will be more intense and greater emphasis will be placed on the details of the Classical Ballet technique. Class is conducted on a free work basis – teachers give exercises and combinations according to what needs to be worked on, not just RAD syllabus work. This helps widen their Ballet vocabulary, giving them greater exposure and challenges to improve their Ballet technique. Students will also be introduced to Pointe work. In addition, they will learn basic dance anatomy and body conditioning exercises to better understand their bodies and prevent injury. To prepare for the free Enchainment section of the IF exam, students are required to know the French Ballet terminology – what they are and how to execute them. This gives them a deeper understanding of Ballet. Minimum 0-6 months pointe with equivalent level in Ballet.
Intermediate Foundation Year 2 (12 – 14 yrs., born in 2013-2011)
90 minutes
Focus of Intermediate Foundation Year 2 is on the preparation for RAD exam. Students should have acquired sufficient strength and control in their Pointe technique. Students are required to know a wider range of Ballet vocabulary, including Glissé and Assemblé devant, derrière, dessus, dessous, Balancé de cote as well as Batterie, Posé en avant, en arrière and de coté in various positions. Minimum 7-12 months pointe with equivalent level in Ballet.
Intermediate (13yrs +)
90 minutes
This level is compulsory if you would like to continue to a higher RAD level, or if you would like to go for the CBTS course. At Intermediate level, students are required to demonstrate their ability to grasp more complex dance combinations of higher technical difficulty, dynamic and musicality. Students will also develop a disciplined approach in learning and a certain level of artistic maturity. At Intermediate level, students acquire a wide range of more advanced Ballet vocabulary, including double en dehor and en dedan, Posé pirouettes in series, Chaînés, Brisé, Entrechat quatre, Fouettés etc. To prepare for the free Enchainment section of the Intermediate exam, students are required to know the French Ballet terminology – what they are and how to execute them. This gives them a deeper understanding of Ballet. Minimum 1 year and above pointe with equivalent level in Ballet.
Contemporary Dance
Contemporary dance is a versatile and expressive form that blends elements of classical and modern dance, encouraging freedom of movement and creativity. Known for its fluidity, athleticism, and emotional depth, it allows dancers to explore their own interpretations while pushing artistic boundaries.
We offer two levels of contemporary dance for children and teens:
- Junior (9-12 yrs) – Tuesdays 6:30-7:30 PM | Saturdays 2:00-3:00 PM
- Senior (12+ yrs) – Mon 8:15-9:15 PM
Contemp Junior (9-12 yrs)
60 minutes
Designed for young dancers, this beginner-friendly class introduces fundamental contemporary techniques while fostering creativity, coordination, and self-expression. Led by experienced instructors, students will improve flexibility, musicality, and body awareness in a supportive and inclusive environment. Through rhythmic exercises and choreography, dancers will gain confidence while experiencing the joy of movement.
Contemp Junior (9-12 yrs)
60 minutes
Designed for young dancers, this beginner-friendly class introduces fundamental contemporary techniques while fostering creativity, coordination, and self-expression. Led by experienced instructors, students will improve flexibility, musicality, and body awareness in a supportive and inclusive environment. Through rhythmic exercises and choreography, dancers will gain confidence while experiencing the joy of movement.
Contemp Senior (12+ yrs)
60 minutes
An intermediate-level class for dancers looking to refine their skills and deepen their artistry. Students will explore complex choreography, fluid transitions, and expressive movement, focusing on strength, coordination, and musicality. With guidance from professional instructors, dancers will push their creative boundaries and develop their own unique style in a collaborative and inspiring setting.
Join us and discover the freedom, expression, and artistry of contemporary dance!
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Photo credit: Bernie Ng, Photo courtesy of Singapore Ballet.