21 April 2026
View the Greek Translation of this article here
This new approach brings together examinations, CPD for teachers and student masterclasses in one central location, designed to support teachers who may not have the facilities, entry volume or geographic access needed to host an examiner at their own venue. For many teachers across Europe, this centre marks the start of a more predictable, accessible and enriching route to ISTD examinations.
And this is only the beginning - a second International Examination Centre is planned for Bari, Italy in 2027, with further European locations to follow as our community grows.
Why an International Examination Centre?
The new Athens centre provides a practical and inspiring solution for teachers who:
- Don’t have access to a large enough studio
- Have a small number of entries and do not meet the minimum fee for a visiting examiner
- Live in regions where examiner travel is difficult or limited
- Want reliable, annual exam dates to support long‑term planning
- Prefer a local alternative to travelling to the UK
The centre offers a fully equipped examination venue and a professionally managed environment that meets ISTD standards - ensuring every candidate receives a consistent and high-quality examination experience.
A multi‑day hub for exams, CPD and masterclasses
What makes the International Examination Centre model unique is the combination of examinations with dedicated professional development for teachers and masterclasses for students.
CPD for Modern Theatre Teachers – 27–28 June 2026
Delivered by Modern Theatre faculty lecturer Angeliki Andrinopoulou, this two‑day CPD weekend gives teachers the chance to:
- Refresh and expand their syllabus knowledge
- Explore graded amalgamations, floor work and body strengthening progressions
- Observe their own pupils in expertly led masterclasses
- Gain practical insights they can apply immediately in their studios
With 12 hours of CPD, the weekend fulfils two‑thirds of ISTD’s recommended annual CPD requirement - an invaluable opportunity for teachers in Greece and surrounding regions.
Student Masterclasses
Students from Grades 2 through to Advanced levels can participate in age appropriate masterclasses, allowing them to refine their technique, broaden their artistic understanding and work directly with ISTD faculty.
A reliable regional hub for European teachers
The Athens centre will serve teachers across:
- Greece
- Cyprus
- The Eastern Mediterranean
- Surrounding European regions
By establishing a consistent annual base for examinations and training, this new centre will help build a stronger, more connected community of ISTD teachers in Europe.
Looking Ahead: Bari 2027 and Beyond
Following the launch in Athens, ISTD will open a second International Examination Centre in Bari, Italy, in 2027, with additional centres planned as teacher clusters continue to grow. This long‑term investment reflects ISTD’s commitment to supporting our international members with accessible, high‑quality examination routes.
Meet your International Representative for Europe and Greece
To support teachers and schools across the region, ISTD is pleased to introduce Carole Watson, International Representative for Europe. Carole is available to help teachers understand whether an International Examination Centre is right for them, provide guidance on logistics, and offer support with queries relating to examinations or CPD at Athens.
Teachers wishing to learn more, express interest, or seek personalised guidance are encouraged to connect with Carole.
Find out more about our International Representative for Europe, Carole Watson.
Want to Learn More?
Explore the Athens CPD weekend and book your place.
Read more about International Examination Centres here.
For examination queries or support, contact:
internationalteachers@istd.org
