18 August 2026
"As a dance teacher, one of the greatest privileges is guiding students through their journey from their very first class to examination day. Over the years, I have had the opportunity to support students through ISTD Tap and Modern examinations, from Primary right through to Advanced 2, and it remains one of the most rewarding aspects of teaching.
For me, examinations are about far more than preparing students for an assessment. They provide structure, purpose and clear goals that help students progress throughout their training. Whether a student attends one class a week or several, working towards an examination gives them something meaningful to strive for and a chance to celebrate their development along the way."
"The real value of examinations lies in the journey towards them. Through learning and refining the syllabus, students develop discipline and commitment. They learn how to overcome challenges, respond to feedback and recognise their own progress.
One of the greatest joys for me is witnessing the friendships that are formed and the memories that are created along the way. Over the years, I have had many former students, now all grown up, tell me about a funny moment from class or an exam day memory that has stayed with them and still makes them smile. Those stories remind me that the experience is about so much more than the result itself.
One of the most rewarding parts of the process is seeing the impact examinations have beyond the studio. Alongside technical development, students gain valuable life skills including confidence, focus, perseverance and self-belief. These are qualities that benefit them not only in dance, but throughout their education and future careers."
"Of course, receiving an exam result that a student feels proud of is something we all work incredibly hard to achieve. But for me, it is everything that happens before that moment, the dedication, resilience, determination, personal growth, and shared experiences, that makes the journey truly magical."
