Tap Grade Classes

Tap Grade, Intermediate and Advanced Classes

From around 7 or 8 years, children with the right dance experience can start to work towards ISTD (Imperial Society of Teachers of Dance) Graded examinations.  Students without previous tap experience can join Grade 1 Tap from about 10 years.  Please note; prospective students who are beginners may be placed in a class with younger children who have dance experience.

In all classes, we encourage the children to develop artistic quality and musical awareness, alongside learning correct technique and improving strength, flexibility and stamina. Prospective students who are beginners may be placed in a class with younger students who have dance experience. Children who show outstanding potential, may be asked by the Principal to commence work on Major examinations (beyond Intermediate Foundation) alongside continuing working through the ISTD Graded syllabi.

Students can study tap up to ISTD Advanced 2 level.  Rhythm is fundamental to tap dancing, and students are encouraged to develop a good musical understanding and neat, clear beating derived from correct technique.  Tap is introduced at Preparatory level to develop a basic understanding of rhythm and timing.  Tap classes continue alongside modern at Pre-Primary, Primary and Grade 1 levels (with the exception of boys focusing on modern and street dance only).

Then, to reach their potential in tap, it is essential that children in Grade 2 tap and upwards also learn modern (and commercial / street  dance) and / or ballet (and National) in order to develop the necessary strength, coordination and understanding of line.

Prospective students with previous tap dancing experience will need an assessment to find an appropriate level class. The in class assessment fee is £15-£25 depending on the level and duration of the class. A private assessment is charged as per private lesson fees.  Please email relevant examination reports in advance so that these can be passed on to the teacher.