Programs
The Royal Academy of Dance (RAD)
The Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) is one of the world’s leading dance education organisations, offering a globally recognised ballet syllabus followed by hundreds of thousands of students worldwide. At Sole To Soul Dance Studio, students typically begin with Baby Ballet before progressing through Pre-Primary, Primary, and graded levels, with the opportunity to advance into vocational training for those seeking a more intensive pathway.
| Grades / Levels | Entry Prerequisites |
|---|
| Baby Ballet | Minimum 4 years |
|---|
| Pre-Primary In Dance | 6 - 7 years |
|---|
| Primary In Dance | 7 to 8 years |
|---|
| Grade 1 | 8 to 9 years |
|---|
| Grade 2 | 9 to 10 years |
|---|
| Grade 3 | 10 to 11 years |
|---|
| Grade 4 | Completed previous grade |
|---|
| Grade 5 | Completed previous grade |
|---|
| Inter-Found | Completed previous grade |
|---|
| Intermediate | Completed previous grade |
|---|
| Adv-Found | Completed previous grade |
|---|
| Advanced 1 | Completed previous grade |
|---|
| Advanced 2 | Completed previous grade |
|---|
Important Note
RAD exams at Intermediate and Advanced Foundation and above are on the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) at Level 3, making them equivalent to A-Levels or BTEC Nationals. This means students can earn UCAS points, which help support their university applications. While they don’t replace core academic subjects, they do give students an added advantage especially for dance or arts related courses.
The Royal Ballet School (ATAP)
The Royal Ballet School Affiliate Training and Assessment Programme (ATAP) is a holistic ballet training programme delivered by accredited teachers and moderated by the school. Unlike traditional syllabus-based systems, ATAP combines technique with repertoire, choreography, creative tasks, and a deeper appreciation of dance, encouraging students to think and express themselves artistically. At Sole To Soul Dance Studio, this approach has helped students develop stronger creativity, musicality, and performance quality while building a solid technical foundation. Students who take part are expected to attend classes consistently and participate in assessments when ready, with additional support provided if needed. Overall, ATAP offers a more well-rounded and engaging learning experience, and may be integrated alongside other training pathways as students progress.
| Grades / Levels | Entry Prerequisites | Level Equivalent |
|---|
| ATAP Level 1 | 6 to 7 years | RAD PPID & PID |
|---|
| ATAP Level 2 | 8 to 9 years | RAD G1 & G2 |
|---|
| ATAP Level 3 | 10 to 11 years | RAD G3 & G4 |
|---|
| ATAP Level 4 | 12 years & up | RAD G5 & G6 |
|---|
| ATAP Level 5 | 12 years & up | RAD Interfound / Intermediate |
|---|
| ATAP Level 6 | 12 years & up | RAD Advanced 1 & 2 |
|---|
The Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing (ISTD)
The Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing (ISTD) Modern syllabus, established in 1932 and continually updated, combines elements of modern, jazz, and other dance styles to develop versatile and disciplined dancers. This energetic and dynamic programme helps students build strength, flexibility, coordination, and endurance through engaging, fast-paced classes, which are typically offered from age 5, with examinations from Grade 1 onwards. Suitable for children aged 7 and above, whether beginners or experienced, students who choose to take ISTD exams are expected to attend classes consistently (usually twice a week), with additional body conditioning and classical ballet recommended to further support their technique and overall development.
| Grades / Levels | Entry Prerequisites |
|---|
| Grade 1 | 7 to 8 years |
|---|
| Grade 2 | 8 to 10 years |
|---|
| Grade 3 | 9 & up |
|---|
| Grade 4 | 10 & up |
|---|
| Grade 5 | 11 & up |
|---|
| Grade 6 | 12 & up |
|---|
| Jazz Awards Bronze | 10 & up |
|---|
| Jazz Awards Silver | 11 & up |
|---|
| Jazz Awards Gold | 13 & up |
|---|
| Int-Found | 12 & up |
|---|
| Intermediate | 13 & up |
|---|
| Advanced 1 | Completed Intermediate |
|---|
| Advanced 2 | Completed Advanced 1 |
|---|
Important Note
Higher level ISTD exams are also recognized as academic qualifications in the UK and are aligned with the national framework. Specifically, ISTD Grade 6 is considered equivalent to an A-Level (Level 3), while Advanced 1, Advanced 2, and the Diploma in Dance Education (DDE) are also categorized at Level 3 or higher, often carrying UCAS points for university entry.
Adult Open Classes
Our Adult Open Classes are tailored for teens and adults of all levels, from complete beginners to experienced dancers. These classes provide a supportive and inclusive space to build confidence, improve fitness, and develop dance skills, whether for personal enjoyment or more serious training. With a variety of styles available, students can explore different genres while progressing at a comfortable pace.
| Grades / Levels | Entry Prerequisites |
|---|
| Beginner | Suitable for all ages with little to no dance experience |
|---|
| Beginner Intermediate | Ideal for dancers looking to refine technique at a faster pace |
|---|
| Types | Entry Prerequisites |
|---|
| Adult Classes (any) | 16 years & up |
|---|
Kids & Teens Open Classes
Our Kids & Teens Open Classes are designed for younger students who want to explore dance in a fun and engaging setting without the structure of formal syllabus training. These classes focus on building coordination, musicality, and foundational technique while encouraging creativity and self-expression. Suitable for beginners and those with some experience, they offer a positive environment for students to grow, stay active, and develop a love for dance.
| Grades / Levels | Entry Prerequisites |
|---|
| Beginner | Suitable for all ages with little to no dance experience |
|---|
| Beginner Intermediate | Ideal for dancers looking to refine technique at a faster pace |
|---|
| Types | Entry Prerequisites |
|---|
| Kids Classes | 4 to 7 years |
|---|
| Teens Classes | 8 to 15 years |
|---|
|
