IMPERIAL SOCIETY OF TEACHERS OF DANCING

Cecchetti Society Classical Ballet Faculty

SYLLABUS OUTLINE OF CECCHETTI EXAMINATIONS

MARCH 2015

ISTD HEADQUARTERS
22/26 PAUL STREET
LONDON
EC2A 4QE
TEL: +44 (0)20 7377 1577
WWW.ISTD.ORG

CONTENTS

Class Examinations 4
Class Examination: Pre-Primary 5
Class Examination: Primary . 6
Class Examination: Standard 1 .. 7
Class Examination: Standard 2 .. 7
Class Examination: Standard 3 .. 8
Class Examination: Standard 4 .. 9
Class Examination: Standard 5 .. 10
Class Examination: Standard 6 .. 11
Senior Certificate 1 12
Senior Certificate 2 13
Performance Awards .. 18
Graded Examinations . 21
Grade 1 .. 24
Grade 2 .. 26
Grade 3 .. 29
Grade 4 .. 32
Grade 5 .. 35
Grade 6 .. 39
Vocational Graded Examinations .. 46
Intermediate Foundation ..50
Intermediate ..53
Advanced 1 . 59
Advanced 2 . 65
Enrico Cecchetti Diploma . 75
Professional Qualifications (UK & Europe) . 80
Professional Qualifications International (Outside Europe) . 81
Associate .. 81
Associate Diploma . 84
Higher Professional Qualifications (UK, Europe and International) 87
Licentiate . 87
Fellowship ... 88
Reasonable Adjustments . 90
Results and Certification .. 91
Re-takes 91
OFQUAL Qualification Accreditation Numbers .. 92

ISTD CECCHETTI CLASSICAL BALLET EXAMINATIONS

CLASS EXAMINATIONS
INTRODUCTION
RATIONALE
The aim of Class Examinations is to provide an assessment scheme for dance, which gives the basis for the
measurement of the individual candidate's progress and development. There are nine practical class
examination levels, from Pre-Primary through to Senior Certificate 2 in progressive order to indicate the
increasing level of difficulty.
AIMS
The objectives of the Cecchetti Class Examinations are set out below:

Develop understanding and maintenance of correct stance in stillness and in movement

Develop accuracy in the use of technique to the best of the individual physical facility

Develop the range of movements within the candidate's natural capabilities

Develop a sense of line through body, arms and head

Show an understanding of musical accuracy and phrasing

Develop an awareness of the use of space

Develop creativity in performing improvisations

LEARNING AND PROGRESSION

Candidates develop the skill of Cecchetti Classical Ballet, building their technique within their own natural
capabilities and developing their creativity and artistry.

ENTRY CONDITIONS AND GENERAL INFORMATION

Examinations up to and including Standard 6 are taken by the teacher in the form of a class in groups of four.
The teacher may not give personal corrections but can offer encouragement. Examinations will be held in the
teacher's own studio, or in schools visited by her.
For Senior Certificates 1 and 2, the examination is conducted by the examiner and no teacher is allowed to
enter the examination room.

AGE LIMITS

Pre - Primary

Minimum age 5 years, recommended maximum age, 6

years

Primary

Minimum age 5 years, recommended maximum age 9

years

Standards 1, 2 and 3

Recommended maximum age 16 years

Standards 4, 5 and 6

No maximum age limit

Senior Certificates 1 and 2

Minimum age 12 years.

The minimum age specifications are to ensure that the candidates are physically developed sufficiently to
safely meet the demands of the syllabus
TIME ALLOWANCES/NUMBER OF CANDIDATES
PRE- PRIMARY

The minimum number of candidates is 3, maximum of 5

The timings are as follows:

Candidates

Timings

3 or 4

20 minutes (15 minutes dancing plus 5 minutes writing time)

25 minutes (20 minutes dancing plus 5 minutes writing time)

PRIMARY, STANDARDS 1, 2 AND 3

The time allowed for each examination is 30 minutes (25 minutes dancing plus 5 minutes writing time)

The minimum number of candidates is three and the ideal number of candidates is four

If there are more than four candidates the recommendation are as follows:

Candidates
6

Two groups of 3

One group of 4 and one of 3

Two groups of 4

One group of 4 and on group of 5

10

Two groups of 5

11

Two groups of 4 and one group of 3

12

Three groups of 4

STANDARDS 4, 5 AND 6

The time allowed for each examination is 45 minutes (40 minutes dancing plus 5 minutes writing time)

Under no circumstances should mature candidates be entered with teenagers

At these levels the ideal number of candidates is four, but fewer will be accepted if there are not these
numbers in whole sessions.

SENIOR CERTIFICATES 1 AND 2

The time allowance is 45 minutes for one candidate and 60 minutes for two or three candidates

Candidates will be entered two at a time but, where there is an odd number, three may be entered
together. A single candidate may be entered.

MUSICAL ACCOMPANIMENT
Teachers entering candidates for Class Examinations must provide their own pianist. There is no set official
music. The music for the dance, which must be piano music, may be played on audio equipment.
DRESS REQUIREMENTS
Candidates will wear the usual dancing class uniform of their school, unblocked ballet shoes with elastics, and
hair suitably and neatly dressed. No jewellery may be worn.
For Senior Certificates 1 and 2, female candidates may choose to wear a short skirt.

SYLLABUS CONTENT

CLASS EXAMINATION PRE-PRIMARY

A short full skirt must be worn by female candidates
The format of this examination is as a presentation class which is teacher-led.
1.

Demi-plis

2.

Walking on tip toes

3.

Flexing and pointing the feet

4.

Point and close

5.

Listen to, and show recognition in movement, music for marching (4/4), skipping (6/8) and running.

6.

Curling and stretching

7.

Hand movements

8.

Sauts in 1st

9.

Imaginative scenes

10. Curtsey or bow

CLASS EXAMINATION PRIMARY

Skipping to enter the room
1

Preliminary Exercises
1. Demi-plis
2. Rises
3. Point and close
4. Foot stretching
5. Marching

Arm and Hand Movements

1. Simple hand exercises
2. Arm lifting
3. Arm Sways

Improvisation

Listen to music, not previously heard, and interpret in expressive free movement two contrasting pieces or
one long piece with contrasting sections
4

Steps
1. Sauts
2. Skipping
3. Galops, a) sideways
b) Pony canters forwards
4. Echapps sauts from 1st to 2nd
Either:
5a. Preparatory exercise for polka
Or:
5b. Preparatory exercise for polka and spring points
6. Running on the toes, using imaginative ideas

Dance

An expressive solo, suitable to the age of the children (not exceeding 45 seconds). This to be performed in twos
or threes
6

Curtsey or Bow

CLASS EXAMINATION STANDARD 1

1

Preliminary Exercises
1. Demi-plis in 2nd and 1st positions
2. Battements tendus, devant and la seconde
3. Point lift step
4. Chass la seconde
5. Retirs
6. Walking

Arm Movements
1. For girls:- Lifting arm sideways, lowering with arm waves
Separate exercise for boys
2. Making 5th position of arms
3. Run and step into arabesque

Improvisation

Listen to music not previously heard and interpret in expressive movement two contrasting pieces or one
long piece with contrasting sections
4

Allegro
1. Amalgamations of sauts in 1st and chapps sauts to 2nd from 1st
2. Spring points and spring heels
3. Petits jets, devant and derrire
4. Simple polka, taken sideways
5. Galops taken forwards and sideways
6. Running and poising on the toes

Dance

An expressive solo (not exceeding 45 seconds). This to be performed in twos or threes

6

Curtsey or Bow

CLASS EXAMINATION STANDARD 2

1

Exercises la barre
1. Demi-plis in 1st, 2nd and 3rd positions
2. Battements tendus to 4th devant and la seconde
3. Grands battements
4. Retirs
7

5. Adage
2

Exercices au Milieu
1. Port de bras

Adage
Set exercise for 3rd arabesque

Pirouette
Set exercise for use of the head

Allegro
1. Preparation for sauts
2. Petits jets devant and derrire, with temps lev
3. Simple polka, sideways and forwards and/or turning
4. Preparatory exercise for pas de chat
5. Galops and coups
6. Changements and chapps sauts from 3rd

Improvisation

Listen to music, not previously heard, and interpret in expressive free movement two contrasting pieces or
one long piece with contrasting sections
7

Dance

A solo (not exceeding one minute) either balletic, demi-charactre or based on national, to be danced in twos
or threes
8

Curtsey or Bow
As in Grade 1

CLASS EXAMINATION STANDARD 3

1

Exercices la barre
1. Demi-plis and rises in 2nd, 1st and 5th positions
2. Battements tendus
3. Battements dgags and piqus - from 1st position
4. Grands battements a) 4th devant and la seconde b) 4th derrire
5. Ronds de jambe exercise
6. Adage
7. Relevs

Exercices au Milieu
Port de bras

Adage
8

Set exercise incorporating 1st and 3rd arabesques

4

Pirouette
1. Relev with bourre
2. Exercise for tour en l'air

Allegro
1. Echapp saut, temps lev, spring 1st
2. Pas de chat
3. Balletic polka, forwards and sideways
4. Jet temps lev
5. Balancs
6. Diagonal or round the room: Chass in arabesque, with temps lev

Improvisation

Moving freely to music not previously heard two contrasting pieces or one long piece with contrasting
sections
7

Dance

A solo (not exceeding one minute) either balletic, demi-charactre or based on national, to be danced in twos
or threes
8

Curtsey and Bow

As in Grade 1

CLASS EXAMINATION STANDARD 4

1

Exercices la barre
1. Demi and grand pli in 2nd and 1st; demi-plis in 5th devant; and rise
2. Battements tendus with demi-pli
3. Battements dgags closing in 1st and 5th position
4. Grands battements with retirs
5. Ronds de jambe terre
6. Battements frapps, introducing ankle movement
7. Adage
8. Relevs

Exercices au Milieu
Port de bras

Adage
Set exercise with 1st, 2nd and 3rd arabesque

Pirouette
1. Girls and boys: Pirouette en dehors
9

2. Boys: Preparation for tour en l'air

5

Allegro
1. Changements with chapps sauts
2. Pas de bourre dessous
3. Assembls soutenu and de suite
4. Preparation for sissonnes
5. (a) Balancs with poss coups - (girls)
(b) Balancs with poss (boys)
6. Diagonal or round the room: temps levs in attitude devant, with gallops and assembl en avant or
devant
7. Preparation for beats

Improvisation

Moving freely to music not previously heard two contrasting pieces or one long piece with contrasting
sections
7

Dance

A solo (not exceeding one minute) either balletic, demicharactre or based on national, to be danced in twos or
threes
8

Rvrence or Bow
As in Grade 4

CLASS EXAMINATION STANDARD 5

1

Exercices la barre
1. 2 demi-plis and grand pli in 2nd, 1st and 5th devant, port de bras and rise
2. Battements tendus with accent
3. Battements dgags
4. Grands battements with retirs
5. Ronds de jambe terre
6. Single and double battements frapps with petits battements
7. Adage
Move slightly away from barre
8. Echapp relev, soussus, with relevs passs

Exercices au Milieu
1. Port de bras

Adage
Set exercise incorporating 5th arabesque

Pirouette
10

1. Girls and boys: Pirouette en dedans

2. Boys: Exercise for tour en l'air with battements tendus
5

Allegro
1. Changements
2. Glissades, taken devant and derrire, with assembl and relev in 5th
3. Temps lev chass pas de bourre and sissonnes

EITHER 4. Chass temps lev in arabesque with change of direction and poss coups
OR

5. Diagonal or round the room: chass temps lev, balanc turning with travelling pas de basques
6. Diagonal: Petits tours with chasse, temps lev
7. Soubresaut and chapp with beat, entrechat quatre

Improvisation

Moving freely to music not previously heard two contrasting pieces or one long piece with contrasting
sections
7

Dance

A Solo (not exceeding one minute) either balletic, demi-charactre or based on national, to be danced in twos
or threes
8

Rvrence or Bow
As in Grade 4

CLASS EXAMINATION STANDARD 6

1

Barre
1. Grand pli with full port de bras, and rise, in 2nd, 1st, 5th devant and 5th derrire positions
2. Battements tendus with demi-pli and transfer of weight
3. Battements dgags
4. Grands battements, with battements balancs
5. Ronds de jambe terre
6. Battements frapps en croix on a fondu, and double battements frapps to 2nd
7. Petits battements with accent
8. Dvelopp, grand rond de jambe, and dgag en tournant
Move slightly away from the barre
9. Echapps and relevs pass with pas de bourre couru

Exercices au Milieu
1. Port de bras
2. Battements tendus in positions of the body

Adage
1. Set exercise
11

Pirouette
1. Girls and boys: Battements tendus, demi-rond de jambe and a pirouette en dehors
2. Boys: Tour en l'air

Allegro
1.Changements and chapps, with small and large elevation
2. Pas de bourre en avant, en arrire and devant
3. Glissade, jet
4. Sissonne enchanement
5. Travelling pas de basque with grand jet en tournant

EITHER 6a. Diagonal: Petit pas de basque en tournant en dedans with galops (girls), or
6b. Chass, coup, chass, coup en tournant (boys)
OR

7. Diagonal: Chass, temps lev, balanc en tournant, with pos tours or petits tours
8. Echapp saut closing with entrechat trois

Improvisation

Moving freely to music not previously heard two contrasting pieces or one long piece with contrasting
sections
7

Dance

A Solo (not exceeding one minute) either balletic, demi-charactre or based on national to be shown singly or
in pairs
8

Rvrence or Bow
As in Grade 4

SENIOR CERTIFICATE 1
1

Barre
1.

Warm up exercise

2.

Plis and port de bras

3.

Battements tendus

4.

Battements dgags

5.

Ronds de jambe terre

6.

Grands battements

7.

Battements frappes and petits battements

8.

Adage

a)

Grand fouett and ballott

b)

Demi-grand rond de jambe

Battements balancs
12

Exercices au Milieu
1.

Port de bras

2.

Battements dgags and battements tendus

Adage
Adage enchanement

Pirouettes
1.

2.
5

a)

Pirouettes en dehors (females only) or

b)

Tour en lair (males only)

Travelling pirouette enchanement (males and females)

Allegro
1.

Warm up saut combination (set by the examiner)

2.

Petit allegro with assembls

3.

Medium allegro with sissonnes

4.

Grand allegro with fouetts sauts

5.

Batterie

6.

Relevs (females only)

7.

Pirouette en diagonal (males only)

Tours en diagonale (males and females)

a)

Poss tours and petits tours

b)

Petits pas de basques and petits tours

Free enchanement to be set by the examiner

Dance

EITHER a classical solo/duet, choreographed by the teacher/candidate, OR the set Tarantella (teachers choice)
9

Rvrence or Bow

SENIOR CERTIFICATE 2
1

Barre
1.

Warm up exercise

2.

Plis and port de bras

3.

Battements tendus and battements dgags

4.

Ronds de jambe terre

5.

Battements frappes and petits battements

6.

Battements fondus

7.

Adage to be set by the examiner

13

8.
2

Exercices au Milieu
1

2.
3

Grands battements and battements balancs

a)

Port de bras set enchanement

b)

Either 5 , 6 or 7 port de bras (candidates choice)

th

th

th

Battements tendus and pirouettes

Adage
Adage enchanement

Pirouettes
1

2
5

a)

Relev pass and pirouettes en dehors (females only) or

b)

Tour en lair (males only)

Balanc and pirouette en dehors (males and females)

Allegro
1.

Warm up saut combination (set by the examiner)

2.

Petit allegro with glissade, jet

3.

Medium allegro with sissonnes

4.

Grand allegro with grands jets en avant

5.

Dance study

6.

Batterie

7.

a)

Relevs (females only) or

b)

Autour de la salle (males only)

Tours en diagonale (males and females)

A combination of poss tours en dedans, petits pas de basques en tournant and/or petits
tours set by the examiner

Free enchanement to be set by the examiner

Dance

EITHER a classical solo/duet, choreographed by the teacher/candidate, OR the set classical dance (teachers
choice)
9

Rvrence or Bow

14

ASSESSMENT - CECCHETTI CLASS EXAMINATIONS

MARK SCHEME
PRE - PRIMARY
Title of component

Marks attainable

Participation and enjoyment

25

Application and response

25

Demonstration of movement

25

Musicality and sense of timing

25

Total

100

PRIMARY AND STANDARD 1

Title of component

Marks attainable

Stance and poise

10

Sense of performance and enjoyment

10

Musicality and sense of timing

10

Use of technique in the exercises

10

Use of arms throughout

10

Improvisation

10

Use of technique in the allegro steps

10

Application, response and spatial awareness

10

Knowledge of the syllabus

10

Dance

10
Total 100

STANDARDS 2, 3 & 4
Title of component

Marks attainable

TECHNIQUE
Barre

10

15

Port de bras

10

Adage and Pirouette(s)

10

Allegro

10
Section Total 40

PRESENTATION
Sense of performance and enjoyment

10

Knowledge, response and spatial awareness

10

Quality of movement

10

Dance

10
Section Total 40

MUSICALITY
Musical response and sense of timing

10

Improvisation

10
Section Total 20
Total 100

STANDARDS 5 & 6
Title of component

Marks attainable

TECHNIQUE
Barre (including centre practice in Standard 6)

10

Port de bras

10

Adage

10

Pirouettes

10

Allegro

10
Section Total 50

PRESENTATION
Sense of performance and artistry

10
16

Response, spatial awareness and knowledge of the syllabus

10

Dance

10
Section Total 30

MUSICALITY
Musical response and sense of timing

10

Improvisation

10
Section Total 20
Total 100

SENIOR CERTIFICATE 1 AND 2

Title of component

Marks attainable

TECHNIQUE
Barre and centre practice

10

Port de bras

10

Adage

10

Pirouettes

10

Allegro

10
Section Total 50

PRESENTATION, MUSICALITY AND RESPONSE

Sense of performance, style and artistry

10

Response and special awareness

10

Musical response and sense of timing

10

Syllabus knowledge

10

Dance

10
Section Total 50
Total 100

17

ASSESSMENT
Class Examinations are assessed externally by visiting examiners recruited and trained by the ISTD.
The examinations are divided into components at Pre-Primary, Primary and Standard 1 levels, and these
components grouped into Sections at higher levels. Each component is separately assessed, and their titles and
marks attainable are given above.
Candidates must achieve at least 25% of the marks attainable in each Section in order to pass the examination
overall. In cases where 25% of the marks attainable does not come to a round figure, eg 12 , the pass mark for
the Section is lowered to the nearest round figure, in this example, 12. The Section totals are aggregated and
the overall mark is given out of 100. If all the Sections are passed, then the overall result is indicated as follows:
Grade

Marks

Distinction

80-100 marks

Merit

60-79 marks

Pass

40-59 marks

Not Attained

0-39 marks

ASSESSMENT GUIDANCE
Candidates are assessed on their ability to show:

A sense of performance which incorporates a suitable awareness of style, expression and enjoyment.

Use of space in relation to the other members of the group and the dance area available.

A rhythmic awareness and a suitable interpretation of the musical qualities.

An understanding of correct stance and placement with an application of classical technique.

PERFORMANCE AWARDS
INTRODUCTION
RATIONALE
The purposes of the Performance Awards are:

To educate by providing a progressive awareness of the culture and technique of Cecchetti Classical Ballet

To develop style and a sense of performance alongside the artistic and musical appreciation

To give both teachers and students the opportunity to develop and enhance performance skills, whilst
retaining and consolidating technical development

18

To encourage the student to use the Cecchetti Classical Ballet technique as a basis for expressing and
developing a characterisation or style of dance

After passing Grade 3, the Performance Awards may be entered. The Performance Awards give the
opportunity for the candidate to perfect variations and solos with emphasis on presentation, style and
dynamics.
Further Performance Awards may be entered after subsequent grade or levels have been achieved. The
advantage to be gained when following this course of study can revitalise both teacher and pupil after the
intensity of examination preparations, bringing back the pure enjoyment of ``dance'' which can become lost as
the technical demands increase at the higher levels.
ENTRY CONDITIONS AND GENERAL INFORMATION
The awards will be held in the teacher's own studio, or schools visited by her. They will not be held in centres.
Levels
Bronze

Minimum age 7 years, holding Class Examination Standard 2 or Grade 2

Silver

Minimum age 8 years, holding Class Examination Standard 3 or Grade 3

Gold

Minimum age 9 years, holding Class Examination Standard 4 or Grade 4

Gold Star

Minimum age 10 years, holding Class Examination Standard 5 or Grade 5

The minimum age specifications are to ensure that they are physically developed sufficiently to safely meet the
demands of the syllabus
N.B. For all awards the appropriate Class Examination or Grade certificate should be brought to the
examination. The teacher will not be in the examination room.
TIME ALLOWANCES/NUMBER OF CANDIDATES
Candidates may be entered in groups of 4 or less as follows.
1 Candidate

2 Candidates

3 Candidates

4 Candidates

10 minutes

10 minutes

15 minutes

20 minutes

MUSICAL ACCOMPAINIMENT
There is no set music and the pianist and music will be provided by the teacher. Recorded piano music may be
used for the solo dances.

19

DRESS REQUIREMENTS
Candidates should wear the usual dancing class uniform of their school, or appropriate costume if they so
desire, soft ballet shoes and the hair should be suitably and neatly dressed.
SYLLABUS CONTENT
1. Port de bras
2. One allegro enchanement (two in Gold Star)
3. Improvisation to music not previously heard - two contrasting pieces or one long piece with contrasting
sections
4. Solo dance (not exceeding one minute). This may be demi-charactre or classical in Bronze and Silver awards
but should be a classical solo for Gold and Gold Star
ASSESSMENT
MARK SCHEME
Title of component

Marks attainable

Port de bras

25

Enchanement(s)

25

Improvisation, style and musicality

25

Dance

25
Total 100

METHOD OF ASSESSMENT
Performance Awards are assessed externally by visiting examiners recruited and trained by the ISTD.
The examinations are divided into components, and these components. Each component is separately
assessed, and their titles and marks attainable are given above.
The overall result is indicated as follows:
Grade

Marks

Distinction

80-100 marks

Merit

60-79 marks

Pass

40-59 marks

Not Attained

0-39 marks

20

ASSESSMENT GUIDANCE
Candidates are assessed on their ability to show:

A sense of performance which incorporates a suitable awareness of style, expression and enjoyment.

Use of space in relation to the other members of the group and the dance area available.

A rhythmic awareness and a suitable interpretation of the musical qualities.

An understanding of correct stance and placement with an application of classical technique.

GRADED EXAMINATIONS IN DANCE

INTRODUCTION
RATIONALE
Cecchetti Classical Ballet makes a distinctive contribution to the education of all students, in that it uses
movement, which is the fundamental mode of human expression. It offers a range of learning opportunities
and enables participants to enjoy physical expression as well as develop intellectual sensibilities. As they work
together in Cecchetti Classical Ballet, candidates learn about co-operation and develop an understanding of the
shaping of movement into artistic forms of expression.
Graded Examinations in Cecchetti Classical Ballet are concerned with progressive mastery in defined stages
within the context of safe dance practice. Each Cecchetti Graded Examination allows candidates to progress to
the next higher grade in the Cecchetti Classical Ballet genre. Also, a range of transfers to other dance genres
becomes possible as the candidate develops physically and learns common skills such as running, use of arms,
posture, timing and rhythmic awareness. In this way, with additional teaching input, the candidate is able to
develop a broad base of dancing skills.
Following on from the Graded Examinations, candidates may wish to progress to the Vocational Graded
Examinations as preparation for employment as a professional dancer or as preparation for dance teaching
qualifications.
The Graded Examinations in Cecchetti Classical Ballet also allow for those participating solely for recreational
purposes to produce quality work in a safe dance context.

21

AIMS
The aim of Graded Examinations is to provide an assessment scheme for dance, which gives the basis for the
measurement of the individual candidate's progress and development, whether the candidate is pursuing
dance as a leisure activity or as preparation for a professional career as a dance teacher or performer. There
are six practical examination grades, numbered from 1 to 6, in order to indicate the increasing order of
difficulty (6 represents the highest level of attainment).
OBJECTIVES
The objectives of the Cecchetti graded examination syllabus are set out below:

Promote understanding and maintenance of correct stance in stillness and in movement

Develop accuracy and precision in the use of technique

Develop the range of movements within the candidate's natural capabilities

Promote understanding and use of dance terminology

Develop good sense of line through body, arms and head, with good use of focus

Promote understanding of musical accuracy and phrasing

Promote appreciation of varying musical styles and their interpretation

Develop awareness of the use of space

Develop awareness of audience and a sense of performance and style

Promote self-confidence in the performance of a solo.

ENTRY CONDITIONS AND GENERAL INFORMATION

AGE LIMITS
The following are the recommended minimum ages for entry of candidates in order to ensure they can meet
the physical demands of the syllabus. There is no upper age limit.

Grade 1

7 years

Grade 2

7 years

Grade 3

8 years

Grade 4

8 years

Grade 5

9 years

Grade 6

10 years

Children and adults should not be entered at the same time.

22

PRIOR LEARNING
The Graded Examinations in Cecchetti Classical Ballet are intended to be taken consecutively and most
candidates will wish to progress through them in sequence in order to develop and demonstrate the requisite
skills. However, in cases where examinations are undertaken without success at the previous grade, the
candidate needs to be at an appropriate level of physical and artistic development. Before a candidate enrols in
a class leading to a Graded Examination, teachers are under a particular duty, therefore, to assess the
achievement of the candidate, particularly with regard to safe dance practice.
GENDER DISTINCTIONS
The syllabus is suitable for both male and female candidates as it is designed to develop all -round strengths
and abilities. There are some separate exercises for males and females that are intended to develop the
differing physical strengths and capabilities to the advantage of the gender, and are not intended to limit
opportunities for access. Such variations are designed within the context industry needs and in particular,
health and safety in dance. It is therefore advisable for candidates to follow the relevant syllabi where
available.
TIME ALLOWANCES/NUMBER OF CANDIDATES
Candidates should be entered in pairs. Where there is an odd number of candidates at one level, the extra
candidate should be entered with a pair, making a group of three.
1 candidates

2 candidates

3 candidates

Grade 1

20 minutes

20 minutes

25 minutes

Grade 2

25 minutes

25 minutes

30 minutes

Grade 3

30 minutes

30 minutes

35 minutes

Grade 4

35 minutes

35 minutes

45 minutes

Grade 5

40 minutes

40 minutes

50 minutes

Grade 6

45 minutes

45 minutes

55 minutes

MUSICAL ACCOMPANIMENT
Teachers entering candidates for examinations must provide their own pianist. The official music for the
Graded examinations should be used for all the set exercises. The music for the dance may be played on audio
equipment and this should be operated by the pianist.
DRESS REQUIREMENTS
Female: Enrico Cecchetti style leotard with matching belt, and soft ballet shoes with elastics. Tights are not
compulsory but, if worn, must be pink. Grade 5 and 6 candidates may wear a camisole style, single strap
leotard with plain back. Hair should be suitably and neatly dressed. No jewellery may be worn.

23

Male: White vest or sleeveless or short sleeved white leotard with dark tights, white socks to be worn over
tights, black or white ballet shoes with white elastics. Younger candidates may wear dark trunks instead of
tights. No jewellery may be worn.

SYLLABUS CONTENT

GRADE 1 FEMALE
1

Theory
Each candidate will be asked ONE question:
4 corners of the room
1st, 2nd and 3rd positions of the feet

2.

Warm-up
To take place after the candidates have confirmed their names with the examiner. The warm-up will
not be assessed.
Natural skips taken round the room 16 bars of 6/8 unset music

3.

Barre
1. Demi-plis in 2nd and 1st
2. Battements tendus la 2nde facing the barre
3. Grands battements sideways to the barre, to be demonstrated on both sides
Slightly away from the barre:
4. Rises combined with running on the toes

4.

Exercices au Milieu
1. Port de bras

5.

Adage
1. Retirs
2. Exercise for 3rd arabesque

5.

Pirouette
1. Quarter turns with use of the head

6.

Allegro

a)
Basic steps: each candidate will be asked to demonstrate ONE basic step selected by the
examiner: Echapp saut from 1st, sideways galops, simple sideways polka, saut in 1st, spring points, step
temps lev
24

b)

Set enchanements: to be demonstrated together apart from where specified

1. Echapp saut with sauts in 1st position

2. Simple polkas with spring points
3. Step temps levs
4. Galops and spring points demonstrated singly
7.

Dance
Teacher's choice of a classical or demi-charactre solo, not to exceed 45 seconds. Piano music must be
used. Props may not be used.

Rvrence

GRADE 1 MALE
1.

Theory
Each candidate will be asked ONE question:
4 corners of the room
1st, 2nd and 3rd positions of the feet

2.

Warm-up
To take place after the candidates have confirmed their names with the examiner. The warm-up will
not be assessed.
Natural skips taken round the room - 16 bars of 6/8 unset music

3.

Barre
1. Demi-plis in 2nd and 1st
2. Battements tendus la 2nde facing the barre
3. Grands battements sideways to the barre, to be demonstrated on both sides
Slightly away from the barre:
4. Rises combined with running on the toes

4.

Exercices au Milieu
1. Port de bras

5.

Adage
1. Retirs
2. Exercise for 3rd arabesque

6.

Pirouette

25

1. Quarter turns with use of the head

7.

Allegro
a)
Basic steps: each candidate will be asked to demonstrate ONE basic step selected by the
examiner: Echapp saut from 1st, sideways galops, simple sideways polka, saut in 1st, spring points,
step temps lev
b)

Set enchanements: to be demonstrated together apart from where specified

1. Echapp saut with sauts in 1st position

2. Simple polkas with spring points
3. Step temps levs
4. Gallops and spring points demonstrated singly
8.

Dance
Teacher's choice of a classical or demi-charactre solo, not to exceed 45 seconds. Piano music must be
used. Props may not be used.

9.

Bow

GRADE 2 FEMALE
Candidates are expected to work in 3rd position of the feet, but 5th will be accepted.
Candidates should have a working knowledge of all the movements and theory in Grade 1 plus:
1.

Theory
Each candidate will be asked ONE question:
Eight points of the room
Five positions of the feet
Arm positions: 2nd, 5th en bas, 5th en avant and 5th en haut

2.

Warm-up
To take place after the candidates have confirmed their names with the examiner. The warm-up will
not be assessed.
Round the room: forward galops, 2 with right foot and 2 with left foot - 16 bars of 6/8 unset music

3.

Barre
Exercises may be seen on one side only:
1. Rise and demi-plis in 2nd, 1st and 3rd positions
2. Battements tendus en croix taken from 1st position
3. Grands battements

a) la quatrime devant
b) la 2nde facing the barre

4. Ronds de jambe terre

26

5. Adage
6. Preparation for sauts
7. Echapps relevs
Stretching exercise (for training purposes only)
4.

Exercices au Milieu
Arm exercise (for training purposes only)
1. Port de bras
2. Battements tendus with transfer of weight to 2nd

5.

Adage
1. Retirs pass
2. Exercise for 3rd arabesque

6.

Pirouette
1. Preparatory exercise for use of head
2. Exercise for tour en l'air

7.

Allegro
a)
Basic steps: each candidate will be asked to demonstrate ONE basic step selected by the
examiner:
Balletic polka forwards and sideways, changement, forward galops, chapp saut from 3rd, pas de
chat, petits jets devant and derrire, temps lev
b)

Set enchanements to be demonstrated together apart from where specified

1. Sauts in 1st position

2. Pas de chat and changements
3. Petits jets, devant and/or derrire
4. Balletic polka
5. Galops demonstrated singly
6. Echapps sauts simple enchanement to include chapp sauts and changements to be set by
the examiner
8.

Dance
Teacher's choice of a classical or demi-charactre solo, not to exceed 45 seconds. Piano music must be
used. Props may not be used.

9.

Rvrence

GRADE 2 MALE
Candidates are expected to work in 3rd position of the feet, but 5th will be accepted.
Candidates should have a working knowledge of all the movements and theory in Grade 1 plus:
27

1.

Theory
Each candidate will be asked ONE question:
Eight points of the room
Five positions of the feet
Arm positions: 2nd, 5th en bas, 5th en avant and 5th en haut

2.

Warm-up
To take place after the candidates have confirmed their names with the examiner. The warm-up will
not be assessed.
Round the room: forward galops, 2 with right foot and 2 with left foot - 16 bars of 6/8 unset music

3.

Barre
Exercises may be seen on one side only:
1. Rise and demi-plis in 2nd, 1st and 3rd positions
2. Battements tendus en croix taken from 1st position
3. Grands battements

a) la quatrime devant
b) la 2nde facing the barre

4. Ronds de jambe terre

5. Adage
6. Preparation for sauts
7. Echapps relevs
Stretching exercise (for training purposes only)
4.

Exercices au Milieu
Arm exercise (for training purposes only)
1. Port de bras
2. Battements tendus with transfer of weight to 2nd

5.

Adage
1. Retirs pass
2. Exercise for 3rd arabesque

6.

Pirouette
1. Preparatory exercise for use of head
2. Exercise for tour en l'air

7.

Allegro
a)
Basic steps: each candidate will be asked to demonstrate ONE basic step selected by the
examiner: Balletic polka forwards and sideways, changement, forward galops, chapp saut from
3rd, pas de chat, petits jets devant and derrire, temps lev
28

b)

Set enchanements: to be demonstrated together apart from where specified

1. Sauts in 1st position

2. Pas de chat and changements
3. Petits jets, devant and/or derrire
4. Balletic polka
5. Galops - demonstrated singly
6. Echapps sauts simple enchanement to include chapp sauts and changements to be set by
the examiner
8.

Dance
Teacher's choice of a classical or demi-charactre solo, not to exceed 45 seconds Piano music must be
used. (Props may not be used).

9.

Bow

GRADE 3 FEMALE
Candidates are expected to work in 5th position of the feet.
Candidates should have a working knowledge of the basic movements and theory in previous grades plus:
1.

Theory
Each candidate will be asked TWO questions:
Arm positions: 1st and demi-seconde
Positions of the body: la quatrime devant, la quatrime derrire and la seconde
Movements in dancing and their meaning: plier and sauter

2.

Warm-up
To take place after the candidates have confirmed their names with the examiner. The warm-up will
not be assessed.
Foot exercise facing the barre

3.

Barre
Exercises may be seen on one side only:
1. Demi-plis and rises in 2nd, 1st and 5th positions
2a. Battements tendus
2b. Battements dgags from 1st position
3. Grands battements

a) devant and la 2nde

b) derrire facing the barre

4. Ronds de jambe terre

5. Battements frapps - singles
6a. Retirs and dvelopps
6b. Fouett taken terre into arabesque
29

7. Echapps and relevs

Stretching exercise - (for training purposes only)
4.

Exercices au Milieu
Arm exercise (for training purposes only)
1. Port de bras
2. Battements tendus with positions of the body

5.

Adage
1. Dvelopp with temps li
2. Exercise for 1st and 3rd arabesques

6.

Pirouette
1. Relev with bourre - to be demonstrated on both sides
2. Preparation for pirouette en dehors

7.

Allegro
a)
Basic steps: each candidate will be asked to demonstrate ONE basic step selected by the
examiner:
Assembl dessus and dessous taken soutenu, balanc sideways, chass en avant, sprung coup dessus
and dessous, jet dessus and dessous, pas de bourre dessous soutenu and de suite, pos coup, pos
en avant
b)

Set enchanments: to be demonstrated together apart from where specified

1. Echapps sauts with sauts in 2nd position

2. Assembls with relev, taken dessus or dessous - examiner's choice
3. Pas de bourre dessous soutenu and de suite
4. Jets temps levs with coups, taken dessus or dessous - examiner's choice
5. Poss coups and galops - demonstrated singly
6. Balancs - demonstrated singly
c)
Free enchanement: one sequence to be set by the examiner using not more than two basic
steps from the previous grades
8.

Dance
Teacher's choice of a classical or demi-charactre solo, not to exceed 45 seconds. Piano music must be
used. (Props may not be used)

9.

Rvrence

GRADE 3 MALE
Candidates will be expected to work in 5th position of the feet.
Candidates should have a working knowledge of the basic movements and theory in previous grades plus:
30

1.

Theory
Each candidate will be asked TWO questions:
Arm positions: 1st and demi-seconde
Positions of the body: la quatrime devant, la quatrime derrire and la seconde
Movements in dancing and their meaning: plier and sauter

2.

Warm-up
To take place after the candidates have confirmed their names with the examiner. The warm-up will
not be assessed. Foot exercise facing the barre

3.

Barre
Exercises may be seen on one side only:
1. Demi-plis and rises in 2nd, 1st and 5th positions
2a. Battements tendus
2b. Battements dgags from 1st position
3. Grands battements

a) devant and la 2nde;

b) derrire facing the barre

4. Ronds de jambe terre

5. Battements frappes - singles
6a. Retirs and dvelopps
6b. Fouett taken terre into arabesque
7. Echapps and relevs
Stretching exercise: (for training purposes only)
4.

Exercices au Milieu
Arm exercise (for training purposes only)
1. Port de bras
2. Battements tendus with positions of the body

5.

Adage
1. Dvelopp with temps li
2. Exercise for 1st and 3rd arabesques

6.

Pirouette
1. Relev with bourre - to be demonstrated on both sides
2. Exercise for tour en l'air - to be demonstrated on one or both sides

7.

Allegro
a)
Basic steps: each candidate will be asked to demonstrate ONE basic step selected by the
examiner: Assembl dessus and dessous taken soutenu, balanc sideways, chass en avant, sprung

31

coup dessus and dessous, jet dessus and dessous, pas de bourre dessous soutenu and de suite,
pos coup, pos en avant
b)

Set enchanments: to be demonstrated together except where specified

1. Echapps sauts with sauts in 2nd position
2. Assembls with relev, taken dessus or dessous - examiner's choice
3. Pas de bourre dessous soutenu and de suite
4. Jets temps levs with coups, demonstrated dessus or dessous - examiner's choice
5. Poss a) demonstrated on whole foot b) demonstrated on demi-pointe - taken singly
6. Balancs - demonstrated singly

c)
Free enchanement: one sequence to be set by the examiner using not more than two basic
steps from the previous grades
8.

Dance
Teacher's choice of a classical or demi-charactre solo, not to exceed 45 seconds. Piano music must be
used. (Props may not be used)

9.

Bow

GRADE 4 FEMALE
Candidates will be expected to work in 5th position of the feet
Candidates should have a working knowledge of the basic movements and theory in previous grades plus:
1.

Theory
Each candidate will be asked TWO questions:
Five positions of the head
Arm positions: 4th en avant and 4th en haut
Positions of the body: croise devant, croise derrire and cart
Movements in dancing and their meaning: tendre and relever

2.

Warm-up
To take place after the candidates have confirmed their names with the examiner. The warm-up will
not be assessed.
Foot exercise facing the barre

3.

Barre
Exercises may be seen on one side only:
1. Plis in 2nd, 1st and 5th positions
2a. Battements tendus
2b. Battements dgags from 1st position

32

3. Grands battements combined with battements dgags and retirs

4. Ronds de jambe terre
5. Battements frapps - singles and doubles
6. Fondu movements
7. Dvelopp and demi-rond de jambe
8. Relevs devant, derrire, and pass
4.

Exercices au Milieu
1. Port de bras
2. Demi-pli and positions of the body

5.

Adage
1. Exercise on demi-rond de jambe en l'air
2. Set exercise using 1st, 2nd and 3rd arabesques demonstrated to both sides

6.

Pirouette
1. Relev pirouette en dehors - demonstrated singly

7.

Allegro
a)
Basic steps: each candidate will be asked to demonstrate TWO basic steps selected by the
examiner: Chass coup en avant, chapp saut closing with a beat, glissade devant and derrire,
sissonne en avant ferme soutenu and de suite, soutenu turn en dedans
b)

Set enchanments: to be demonstrated together apart from where specified

1. Sauts
2. Glissades, demonstrated either derrire or devant -examiner's choice
3. Sissonnes
4. Temps lev chass pas de bourre, relev in 5th position
5. Round the room: coup chass temps lev
6. Either - preparation for pirouettes en dedans en diagonale
Or soutenu turns en dedans en diagonale
Examiner's choice, demonstrated singly
7. Echapp saut chang closing with beat and changements
c)
Free enchanement: one sequence to be set by the examiner using not more than three basic
steps from the previous grades
8.

Dance
Teacher's choice of a classical solo, not to exceed one minute. Piano music must be used

9.

Rvrence

33

GRADE 4 MALE
Candidates are expected to work in 5th position of the feet
Candidates should have a working knowledge of the basic movements and theory in previous grades plus:
1.

Theory
Each candidate will be asked TWO questions:
Five positions of the head
Arm positions: 4th en avant and en haut
Positions of the body: croise devant, croise derrire and cart
Movements in dancing and their meaning: tendre and relever

2.

Warm-up
To take place after the candidates have confirmed their names with the examiner. The warm-up will
not be assessed
Foot exercise facing the barre

3.

Barre
Exercises may be seen on one side only:
1. Plis in 2nd, 1st and 5th positions
2a. Battements tendus
2b. Battements dgags from 1st position
3. Grands battements combined with battements dgags and retirs
4. Ronds de jambe terre
5. Battements frapps - singles and doubles
6. Fondu movements
7. Dvelopp and demi-rond de jambe
8. Relevs devant, derrire, and pass

4.

Exercices au Milieu
1. Port de bras
2. Demi-pli and positions of the body

5.

Adage
1. Exercise on demi-rond de jambe en l'air
34

2. Set exercise using 1st, 2nd and 3rd arabesques - demonstrated to both sides
6.

Pirouette
1. Relev pirouette en dehors
2. Preparation for tour en l'air

7.

Allegro
a)
Basic steps: each candidate will be asked to demonstrate TWO basic steps selected by the
examiner: Chass coup en avant, chapp saut closing with a beat, glissade devant and derrire,
sissonne en avant ferme soutenu and de suite, soutenu turn en dedans
b)

Set enchanments: to be demonstrated together apart from where specified

1. Sauts
2. Glissades, demonstrated either derrire or devant - examiner's choice
3. Sissonnes
4. Temps lev chass pas de bourre, relev in 5th position
5. Round the room: coup chass temps lev
6. Either - preparation for pirouettes en dedans en diagonal
Or - soutenu turns en dedans en diagonale
Examiner's choice, demonstrated singly
7. Echapp saut chang closing with beat and changements
c)
Free enchanement: one sequence to be set by the examiner using not more than three basic
steps from the previous grades
8.

Dance
Teacher's choice of a classical solo, not to exceed one minute. Piano music must be used

9.

Bow

GRADE 5 FEMALE
Candidates will be expected to work in 5th position of the feet
Candidates should have a working knowledge of the basic movements and theory in previous grades plus:
1.

Theory
Each candidate will be asked TWO questions:
Arm positions: 3rd
Position of the body: paule
Movement in dancing and its meaning: glisser
Arabesques: 1st, 2nd and 3rd

Warm-up

35

To take place after the candidates have confirmed their names with the examiner. The warm-up will not be
assessed.
Foot exercise facing the barre
2.

Barre
Exercises may be seen on one side only:
1. Plis in 2nd, 1st and 5th positions
2a. Battements tendus
2b. Battements dgags
3. Grands battements with retir
4. Ronds de jambe terre, with preparation
5. Battements frapps - singles and doubles
6. Petits battements
7. Dvelopp with grand rond de jambe en l'air
8. Battements balancs
Slightly away from the barre:
9. Echapp, with relevs devant and derrire

4.

Exercices au Milieu
1. Port de bras:

a) 2nd exercise
b) preparation for the 4th exercise

2. Battements tendus, en arrire and en avant

3. Temps li
5.

Adage
1. Grand pli, dvelopp and demi-rond de jambe
2. Set exercise for 4th and 5th arabesques

6.

Pirouette
1. Pirouette en dehors - demonstrated singly
2. Pirouette en dedans

7.

Allegro
a)
Basic steps: each candidate will be asked to demonstrate TWO basic steps selected by the
examiner: Assembl dessus and dessous, taken de suite, balanc en avant and en arrire and en
tournant, entrechat quatre, glissade change, pas de bourre dessus soutenu, sissonne en avant
ouverte, sissonne en arrire ferme soutenu and de suite, soubresaut

b)

Set enchanments: to be demonstrated together apart from where specified

1. Changements and soubresauts
36

2. Glissade, assembl
3. Sissonnes
4. Round the room: chass temps lev, pos, jet en attitude devant
5. Chass temps lev in 1st arabesque and balanc - demonstrated singly
6. Pas de chat with pas de bourre
7. En diagonale: petits tours - demonstrated singly to both sides
8. Batterie
c)

Free enchanement: one sequence to be set by the examiner using not more than three basic steps
from the previous grades

8.

Dance
Teacher's choice of a classical solo, not to exceed one minute. Piano music must be used

9.

Rvrence

GRADE 5 MALE
Candidates will be expected to work in 5th position of the feet
Candidates should have a working knowledge of the basic movements and theory in previous grades plus:
1.

Theory
Each candidate will be asked TWO questions:
Arm positions: 3rd
Position of the body: paule
Movement in dancing and its meaning: glisser
Arabesques: 1st, 2nd and 3rd

2.

Warm-up
To take place after the candidates have confirmed their names with the examiner. The warm-up will
not be assessed.
Foot exercise facing the barre

3.

Barre
Exercises may be seen on one side only:
1. Plis in 2nd, 1st and 5th positions
2a. Battements tendus
2b. Battements dgags
2. Grands battements with retir
3. Ronds de jambe terre, with preparation
4. Battements frapps - singles and doubles
5. Petits battements

37

6. Dvelopp with grand rond de jambe en l'air

7. Battements balancs
Slightly away from the barre:
8. Echapp, with relevs devant and derrire
4.

Exercices au Milieu
1. Port de bras:

a) 2nd exercise;
b) preparation for the 4th exercise

2. Battements tendus, en arrire and en avant

3. Temps li
5.

Adage
1. Grand pli, dvelopp and demi-rond de jambe
2. Set exercise for 4th and 5th arabesques

6.

Pirouette
1. Pirouette en dehors
2. Preparation for tour en l'air
3. Pirouette en dedans

7.

Allegro
a)
Basic steps: each candidate will be asked to demonstrate TWO basic steps selected by the
examiner: : Assembl dessus and dessous, taken de suite, balanc en avant and en arrire and en
tournant, entrechat quatre, glissade change, pas de bourre dessus soutenu, sissonne en avant
ouverte, sissonne en arrire ferme soutenu and de suite, soubresaut
b)

Set enchanments: to be demonstrated together apart from where specified

1. Changements and soubresauts

2. Glissade, assembl
3. Sissonnes
4. Round the room: chass temps lev, pos, jet en attitude devant
5. Chass temps lev in 1st arabesque and balanc - demonstrated singly
6. Pas de chat with pas de bourre
7. En diagonale: petits tours - demonstrated singly to both sides
8. Batterie
c)
Free enchanement: one sequence to be set by the examiner using not more than three basic
steps from the previous grades
8.

Dance
Teacher's choice of a classical solo, not to exceed one minute. Piano music must be used

9.

Bow

38

GRADE 6 FEMALE
Candidates will be expected to work in 5th position of the feet
1.

Theory

Candidates should have a working knowledge of the basic movements and theory in previous grades plus:
Each candidate will be asked TWO questions:
Positions of the body: efface
Movements in dancing and their meaning: lancer and tourner
Arabesques: 4th and 5th
Attitudes: croise and efface

2.

Warm-up
To take place after the candidates have confirmed their names with the examiner. The warm-up will
not be assessed.
Foot exercise facing the barre

3.

Barre
Exercises may be seen on one side only:
1. Plis in 2nd, 1st and 5th positions
2a. Battements tendus en croix with transfer of weight
2b. Battements dgags with piqus
3. Grands battements en croix
4. Ronds de jambe terre, with preparation and ending
5. Battements frapps - singles and doubles
6. Petits battements with ending
7. Fondu movements
8. Adage:

a) grand rond de jambe and attitude

b) dvelopp with fouett of adage - examiner's choice

9. Battements balancs
Port de bras (for training purposes only)
4.

Exercices au Milieu
1. Port de bras:

th

a) 4 exercise
b) either 1st and 2nd exercises or 3rd and 4th exercises (examiners choice)

2. Grands battements
3. Battements tendus en croix with battements dgags
4. Temps li
5.

Adage

39

1. Deux grands rond de jambe en l'air avec arabesque

2. Set exercise for attitudes with pirouette en dedans
6.

Pirouette
1. Pirouette en dehors from 4th position - demonstrated singly
2. Relevs passs with pirouette en dehors

7.

Allegro
a)
Basic steps: each candidate will be asked to demonstrate TWO basic steps selected by the
examiner: Assembl en avant, assembl elanc dessus, demi-contretemps, entrechat royale, grand
jet en tournant and en avant, pas de bourre devant and derrire and pas de bourre couru, pos
dvelopp, pos tour, sissonne ferme dessus (arms en bas), soussus
b)

Set enchanments: to be demonstrated together apart from where specified

1. Echapps sauts and pas de bourre dessous

2. Sissonnes - demonstrated singly
3. Pas de bourre
4. Soussus, pos, pas de bourre couru, changement
5. En diagonale: demi-contretemps, assembl lanc - demonstrated singly
6. Grands jets en tournant - demonstrated singly
7. Poss dvelopps
8. En diagonale: pos tours and petits tours - demonstrated singly to both sides
9. Batterie
c)
Free enchanement: one sequence to be set by the examiner using not more than four basic
steps from the previous grades
8.

Dance
Teacher's choice of a classical solo, not to exceed one minute. Piano music must be used.

9.

Rvrence

GRADE 6 MALE
Candidates will be expected to work in 5th position of the feet
1.

Theory
Candidates should have a working knowledge of the basic movements and theory in previous grades
plus:
Each candidate will be asked TWO questions:
Positions of the body: efface
Movements in dancing and their meaning: lancer and tourner
40

Arabesques: 4th and 5th

Attitudes: croise and efface

2.

Warm-up
To take place after the candidates have confirmed their names with the examiner. The warm-up will
not be assessed.
Foot exercise facing the barre

3.

Barre
Exercises will be seen on one side only:
1. Plis in 2nd, 1st and 5th positions
2a. Battements tendus en croix with transfer of weight
2b. Battements dgags with piqus
3. Grands battements en croix
4. Ronds de jambe terre, with preparation and ending
5. Battements frapps - singles and doubles
6. Petits battements with ending
7. Fondu movements
8. Adage:

a) grand rond de jambe and attitude

b) dvelopp with fouett of adage - examiner's choice

9. Battements balancs
Port de bras (for training purposes only)
4.

Exercices au Milieu
1. Port de bras:

th

a) 4 exercise;
b) either 1st and 2nd exercises or 3rd and 4th exercises (examiners choice)

2. Grands battements
3. Battements tendus en croix with battements dgags
4. Temps li
5.

Adage
1. Deux grands rond de jambe en l'air avec arabesque
2. Set exercise for attitudes with pirouette en dedans

6.

Pirouette
1. Pirouette en dehors from 4th position - demonstrated singly
2. Exercise for tour en l'air

7.

Allegro
41

a)
Basic steps: each candidate will be asked to demonstrate TWO basic steps selected by the
examiner: Assembl en avant, assembl elanc dessus, demi-contretemps, entrechat royale, grand
jet en tournant and en avant, pas de bourre devant and derrire and pas de bourre couru, pos
dvelopp, pos tour, sissonne ferme dessus (arms en bas), soussus
b)

Set enchanments: to be demonstrated together apart from where specified

1. Echapps sauts and changements

2. Sissonnes - demonstrated singly
3. Pas de bourre
4. Echapp battu
5. En diagonale: demi-contretemps, assembl lanc - demonstrated singly
6. Grands jets en tournant - demonstrated singly
7. Round the room: chass temps lev in 1st arabeseque with jet en avant
8. En diagonale: pos tours and petits tours - demonstrated singly to both sides
9. Relev 5th, entrechat royale, including tour en l'air
c)
Free enchanement: one sequence to be set by the examiner using not more than four basic
steps from the previous grades
8.

Dance

eacher's choice of a classical solo, not to exceed one minute. Piano music must be used.

9.

Bow

ASSESSMENT - GRADED EXAMINATIONS

MARK SCHEME
GRADE 1
Title of component

Marks attainable

TECHNIQUE
Barre

10

Port de bras

10

Adage and pirouette

10

Allegro

10
Section Total 40

42

PRESENTATION, MUSICALITY AND RESPONSE

Sense of performance

10

Quality and co-ordination of movement

10

Rhythm, sense of timing and musicality

10

Syllabus knowledge and theory

10

Response and enjoyment

10

Dance

10
Section Total 60
Total 100

GRADES 2, 3 & 4
TECHNIQUE
Title of component

Marks attainable

Barre

10

Port de bras

10

Adage

10

Pirouettes (including en diagonale)

10
Section Total 40

PRESENTATION, MUSICALITY AND RESPONSE

Title of component

Marks attainable

Sense of performance

10

Quality and co-ordination of movement

10

Rhythm, sense of timing and musicality

10

Syllabus knowledge and theory

10

Response and enjoyment

10

Dance

10
Section Total 60
Total 100

43

GRADES 5 & 6
TECHNIQUE
Title of component

Marks attainable

Barre and centre practice

10

Port de bras

10

Adage

10

Pirouettes (including en diagonale)

10

Petit allegro and petite batterie

10

Allegro

10
Section Total 60

PRESENTATION, MUSICALITY AND RESPONSE

Title of component

Marks attainable

Sense of performance and artistry

10

Rhythm, sense of timing and musicality

10

Response to free work, syllabus knowledge & theory

10

Dance

10
Section Total 40
Total 100

METHOD OF ASSESSMENT
Graded Examinations are assessed externally by visiting examiners recruited and trained by the ISTD.
The examinations are divided into Sections and each Section is composed of several components which are
separately assessed and aggregated to give the Section total. The titles of these components and the marks
attainable for the Cecchetti Graded Examinations are detailed above.
Candidates must gain at least 25% of the marks attainable in each Section in order to pass the examination
overall. In cases where 25% of the marks attainable does not come to a round figure, e.g. 12 , the pass mark
for the Section is lowered to the nearest round figure, in this example, 12.
The Section totals are aggregated and the overall mark is given out of 100. If all Sections are passed, then the
overall result is indicated as follows:

44

Grade

Marks

Distinction

80-100 marks

Merit

60-79 marks

Pass

40-59 marks

Not Attained

0-39 marks

However, if the candidate is unsuccessful in one or more Sections, as explained above, the total mark given out
of 100 will not correspond to the result indicators in the chart. In this circumstance, whatever the overall
numerical mark may be, the result given will be `Not Attained'.
CLASSIFICATION OF RESULTS
The principle of best fit is applied in deciding the appropriate classification for each candidate. It is not to be
expected that a candidate in a particular category will necessarily demonstrate all of the characteristics listed in
that category.
A candidate who achieves a Distinction classification (80-100 marks) is one who demonstrates the following
attributes in performance:

flair, vitality and skill

fully appropriate style

incisively-focused dancing

precision in the technique of the genre

consistent, highly developed musicality

confident and accurate responses to questions asked and/or tasks set

A candidate who achieves a 'Merit' classification (60-79 marks) is one who demonstrates the following
attributes in performance:

skill and proficiency

largely appropriate style

focused dancing

competence in the technique of the genre

evidence of developing musicality

relevant and appropriate responses to questions asked and/or tasks set

A candidate who achieves a 'Pass' classification (40-59 marks) is one who demonstrates the following attributes
in performance:

competence

basic ability to carry out the required movements

periodic moments of convincing focus

45

basic competence in most aspects of the technique of the genre

basic musicality

broadly relevant and appropriate response to questions asked and/or tasks set, but some prompting may
be required

A candidate who achieves an insufficient level of achievement 'Not Attained' classification (00-39 marks) is one
who has not yet demonstrated attributes required to gain at least a `Pass' classification.
ASSESSMENT GUIDANCE
Candidates are assessed on their ability to show:

technical accuracy with correct placement to the best of their physical facility

appropriate use of limbs showing an understanding of the purpose or significance of each movement or
sequence of movements

a sense of line and well co-ordinated movements

an assured performance showing the different qualities of movement required by each section of the
examination structure

musicality and rhythmic awareness

VOCATIONAL GRADED EXAMINATIONS IN DANCE

INTRODUCTION
RATIONALE
The Vocational Graded Examinations in Cecchetti Ballet, from Intermediate Foundation through to Advanced 2,
develop the candidate's expertise in such a way as to provide the basis for either professional employment as a
dancer or further training as a dance teacher.
Throughout the study of the syllabus, candidates are following a vocational path, requiring a high level of
commitment and with an increasing emphasis on safe dance practice. Successful candidates at this level should
show virtuosity in performance, a high standard of technique and a sound knowledge and understanding of the
Cecchetti Ballet genre, including an understanding of reference and context. Candidates undertaking a study of
the Cecchetti Ballet Vocational Graded syllabus should also typically display a sense of self-awareness and be
self-motivated in terms of their personal development. As distinct from the General Graded examinations, a
greater degree of personal interpretation is encouraged and the candidate is expected to show the potential to
communicate effectively with an audience.
Candidates will need to show the qualities of professionalism, commitment and focus, with the ability to
manage a greater workload than that required for the general graded examinations. This would typically result
in a successful candidate spending significant additional time each week in lessons, in practising and in studying
independently. The Vocational Graded examinations are concerned specifically with the mastery of technique

46

and underpinning understanding, to a level sufficient to prepare candidates for further vocational training and
match current expectations in the employment sector.
The Vocational Graded Examinations are offered as vocationally-related qualifications on the Qualifications and
Credit Framework (QCF). Intermediate Foundation is located at Level 2; Intermediate is located at Level 3; and
Advanced 1 and Advanced 2 are located at Level 4.
AIMS
The aim of the ISTD Vocational Graded Examinations in Cecchetti Ballet is to provide an assessment scheme,
which gives the basis for the measurement of the individual candidate's progress and development, in
preparing to be a professional dance performer or teacher. There are four practical examinations graded to
measure appropriate stages of development from a general standard of Cecchetti Ballet education to that of
professional competence and readiness.
OBJECTIVES
The syllabus objectives of the Cecchetti Vocational Graded Examinations are to:

Promote understanding and maintenance of correct stance in stillness and in movement

Develop accuracy and precision in the use of technique

Develop a full range of movements within the candidate's natural capabilities

Promote understanding and use of dance terminology within the principles of the Method

Develop a sense of co-ordinated line through body, arms and head, with appropriate use of focus

Develop and use varying qualities of movement as required by the classical ballet technique

Promote understanding and use of musical accuracy and phrasing

Promote appreciation of varying musical styles and interpret these in performance

Develop spatial awareness

Develop the ability to establish a rapport with the audience with an appropriate sense of performance and
correct interpretation of style

Promote a skilled performance of a classical solo

ENTRY CONDITIONS AND GENERAL INFORMATION

Intermediate Foundation and Intermediate should be scheduled at the start of an examining day. Advanced 1
and Advanced 2 candidates are only examined at Centres unless the whole day consists of Vocational Graded
Examinations.

47

AGE LIMITS
There is a lower age limit of 12 years for a candidate entering the Intermediate Foundation or Intermediate
examination.
This is to ensure that they are physically developed sufficiently to safely meet the demands of the syllabus.
PRIOR LEARNING

There are no prior examination requirements for intermediate Foundation and intermediate. However,
candidates will need to have knowledge of the content of the Cecchetti Grades. Intermediate Foundation is an
optional examination; otherwise these examinations must be taken in the correct order.
Candidates wishing to enter for the Advanced 1 must have passed Intermediate and for Advanced 2 must have
passed Advanced 1.
Exemption from the Intermediate and Advanced 1 examinations may be obtained if the candidate already
holds an equivalent genre Intermediate or Advanced 1 certificate of an Ofqual approved dance awarding body.
Application for exemption must be made in writing to the UK Examinations department.
GENDER DISTINCTIONS
Male candidates may not be examined at the same time as female candidates.
The syllabus is suitable for both male and female candidates as it is designed to develop all -round strengths
and abilities. There are some separate exercises for males and females that are intended to develop the
differing physical strengths and capabilities to the advantage of the gender, and are not intended to limit
opportunities for access. Such variations are designed within the context industry needs and in particular,
health and safety in dance. It is therefore advisable for candidates to follow the relevant syllabi where
available.
LOCATION
Intermediate Foundation and Intermediate examinations may be taken in the teacher's own studio or at an
examination centre. Advanced examinations will only be held at the London Centre or officially appointed
regional examination centres, vocational schools or colleges of further or higher education.
TIME ALLOWANCES/NUMBER OF CANDIDATES
INTERMEDIATE FOUNDATION AND INTERMEDIATE
Candidates should be entered in pairs. Where there is an odd number of candidates at Intermediate
Foundation and Intermediate levels, a group of three may be entered.

Examination

1 candidate

2 candidates

3 candidates

48

Intermediate Foundation

60 minutes

75 minutes

75 minutes

Intermediate

75 minutes

75 minutes

90 minutes

ADVANCED 1 AND ADVANCED 2

Candidates should be entered in pairs. Where there are an odd number of candidates involved, the candidate
should be entered alone.
Examination

1 candidate

2 candidates

Advanced 1

75 minutes

90 minutes

Advanced 2

90 minutes

105 minutes

MUSICAL ACCOMPANIMENT
The official sheet music for the Intermediate Foundation, Intermediate and Advanced 1 and 2 must be used for
these examinations. The music for the classical solo only may be played on audio equipment and this should be
operated by the pianist.
DRESS REQUIREMENTS
Female:
A sleeveless leotard (without any school colour, badge or other form of identification) and pink tights. A plain
tutu skirt is optional for the solo in the Advanced 2 examination. Soft shoes, in canvas or leather with a full sole,
with elastics which should be worn for the Intermediate Foundation and Intermediate examinations, with
blocked shoes for pointe work. For Advanced 1 and 2, candidates must wear softened blocked pointe shoes,
with stronger blocked shoes for pointe work.
Mature candidates should wear leotard and tights, and a short skirt that is easy to manipulate to show knees
and thighs when demonstrating. The hair should be suitably and neatly dressed. No jewellery or watches may
be worn in any examination.
Male:
White vest or sleeveless or short-sleeved white leotard with dark tights, white socks to be worn over tights,
black or white ballet shoes with elastics. Mature candidates may wear well fitting teaching trousers. No
jewellery may be worn.

49

SYLLABUS CONTENT

INTERMEDIATE FOUNDATION FEMALE

1 Theory
Each candidate will be asked two questions:
1. Five positions of the feet
2. Five positions of the arms
3. Five positions of the head
4. Seven movements in dancing
5. Eight directions of the body
6. Five arabesques
7. Use of the eight fixed points
8. The meaning of the French technical terms
2 Exercices la barre
1. Plis and port de bras
2a Battements tendus
2b Battements dgags
3. Ronds de jambe terre
4. Grands battements
5. Battements frapps
6. Petits battements
Adage:
7a Fondus
7b Demi-rond de jambe
8. Battements balancs
9. Relevs (slightly away from the barre)
3 Exercices au Milieu
1. Port de bras
2. Battements tendus
Adage
1. Exercise for arabesques
2. Exercise with attitude and grand rond de jambe en l'air
Pirouettes
1. Relev and pirouettes en dehors
2. Pirouettes en dedans and en dehors from 4th position
Allegro

50

Basic Steps: each candidate will be asked to demonstrate one basic step selected by the examiner taken from
the Grade syllabi together with the following:
Bris dessus soutenu, entrechat trios derrire and devant
Set enchanements - some of which may be demonstrated singly as requested by the examiner:
1. Sauts
2. Assembls
3. Pas de bourre
4. Jet, temps levs
5. Sissonnes
6. Briss
7. Balancs
8. Glissade, jet
9. Batterie
10. Grands jets en tournant - to be demonstrated on both sides
En diagonale - taken to one or both sides:
11a Pos tours en dedans
11b Petits tours
Free enchanement: one sequence to be set by the examiner using not more than four basic steps from the
Graded syllabi
Classical solo
Teacher's own choreography not to exceed one minute and not on pointe. Piano music must be used.
Temps de pointe
Barre:
1. Exercise for flexing the feet
2. Demi-plis and rises
3. Battements tendus and chapps relevs
Barre or au milieu:
4. Echapps and relevs
Rvrence

INTERMEDIATE FOUNDATION MALE

Theory
Each candidate will be asked two questions:
1. Five positions of the feet
2. Five positions of the arms

51

3. Five positions of the head

4. Seven movements in dancing
5. Eight directions of the body
6. Five arabesques
7. Use of the eight fixed points
8. The meaning of the French technical terms
Exercices la barre
1. Plis and port de bras
2a Battements tendus
2b Battements dgags
3. Ronds de jambe terre
4. Grands battements
5. Battements frapps
6. Petits battements
Adage:
7a Fondus
7b Demi-rond de jambe
8. Battements balancs
9. Relevs (slightly away from the barre)
Exercices au Milieu
1. Port de bras
2. Battements tendus
Adage
1. Exercise for arabesques
2. Exercise with attitude and grand rond de jambe en l'air
Pirouettes
1. Pirouettes en dedans and en dehors from 4th position
2. Tour en l'air

Allegro
Basic steps: each candidate will be asked to demonstrate one basic step selected by the examiner taken from
the Grade syllabi together with the following:
Bris dessus soutenu, entrechat trios derrire and devant
Set enchanements - some of which may be demonstrated singly as requested by the examiner:
1. Sauts
2. Assembls

52

3. Pas de bourre
4. Jet, temps levs
5. Sissonnes
6. Briss
7. Balancs
8. Glissade, jet
9. Batterie
10. Grands jets en tournant - to be demonstrated on both sides
En diagonale - taken to one or both sides:
11 Petits tours
Free enchanement: one sequence to be set by the examiner using not more than four basic steps from the
Graded syllabi

Male virtuosity
1. Assembls soutenus and de suite
2. Grands changements
3. En diagonale: temps levs chasss en avant - demonstrated singly
4. Echapps battus, beating in only
5. Autour de la salle: coups chasss - demonstrated singly
Classical solo
Teacher's own choreography not to exceed one minute. Piano music must be used.
Bow

INTERMEDIATE FEMALE
Theory
Each candidate will be asked two questions:
1. Five positions of the feet
2. Five positions of the arms
3. Five positions of the head
4. Seven movements in dancing
5. Correct movements of the foot
6. Theory of port de bras
7. Use of the eight fixed points
8. Five arabesques
9. Eight directions of the body
53

10. The meaning of the French technical terms

Exercices la barre
1. Plis and port de bras
2a Battements tendus
2b Battements dgags
3. Retirs
4. Ronds de jambe terre
5. Grands battements
6. Fondu movements
7a Battements frapps
7b Fouetts terre
8. Petits battements
9. Ronds de jambe en l'air
Adage movements - two adages will be selected by the examiner:
10a Dvelopps
10b Grand fouett
10c Grand rond de jambe and dvelopp en tournant
11. Preparation for fouetts rond de jambe en tournant
12. Battements balancs
13. Preparation for sauts

Exercices au Milieu
1. First set of port de bras
2. Eight directions of the body
3a Grands battements
3b Battements tendus
3c Battements dgags
4. Temps lis
Adage
1. Exercise for arabesques
2. Demi-grand rond de jambe
3. Adage enchanement
Separate components may be requested by the examiner
3a Exercise for dgag en tournant terre
3b Exercise for fouett en l'air
3c Exercise for dvelopp en tournant en dehors
54

Pirouettes
Pirouettes may be demonstrated singly examiners choice
1. Grande prparation pour pirouettes en dehors
2. Pirouettes en dehors from 4th
3. Pirouettes en dedans from a lunge (without a fouett)
4. Pirouettes en dedans from 4th (with a fouett)
Allegro
Basic steps: each candidate will be asked to demonstrate two as selected by the examiner, either
demonstrated singly or in a series, soutenu or de suite. These steps will not be contained in unseen
enchanements assembls devant and derrire, en arrire; assembl coup
ballonn simple, carte
ballonn simple en avant in efface
bris (dessus)
echapp battu (beating out and in)
entrechat trois devant and derrire
glissades en avant et en arrire
grand jet en avant
pas de bourre en avant, en arrire, en tournant en dehors and en dedans
pas de bourre ouvert to 2nd position
sissonnes dessous, dessus and en arrire ouverte
Set enchanements - some of which may be demonstrated singly as requested by the examiner:
Petit and Medium Allegro
1. Assembl, temps lev, assembl coup soutenu; en avant and/or en arrire - examiner's choice
2. Jet temps lev twice, coup dessous, assembl dessous, two changements; may be taken in
reverse - examiner's choice
3. Pas de bourre en tournant, en dehors and en dedans
4. Sissonne en avant ferme, sissonne en avant ouverte, pas de bourre en avant, changement etc;
may be taken in reverse - examiner's choice
5. Glissade change, assembl dessus, temps lev chass pas de bourr dessous
6. Pas de bourre ouvert and close twice, pas de bourre ouvert and close with entrechat trois, three
petits jets derrire etc
7. Entrechat quatre, entrechat royale, repeat; entrechat trois, assembl coup, repeat; may be taken
in reverse examiner's choice
8. Bris dessus soutenu, repeat; pas de bourre dessus, changement soutenu
Grand Allegro demonstrated singly
A series of grands changements
9. Demi-contretemps, assembl lanc, two soubresauts etc

55

10. Pas de bourre, grand jet en tournant, 2 steps, pos in 2nd arabesque
11. Temps lev chass, pas de bourre dessous to 4th and cabriole devant ouverte, step, pas de
bourre dessous
Tours en diagonale taken to one or both sides:
12a Pos tours en dedans
12b Petits pas de basque en tournant
12c Petits tours
Unseen enchanement: minimum of one sequence to be set by the examiner using not more than four basic
steps from the Graded syllabi
Classical solo
Teacher's own choreography not to exceed one minute and not on pointe. Piano music must be used.
Temps de pointe
Barre:
1. Stepping up to pointes
2. Demi-plis and rises in 1st and 2nd
3. Tendus and relevs, with 1/4 turns
4. Relevs devant, derrire, 5th, and pass
5. Echapps taken to 2nd and to 4th
Au milieu:
6. Temps lis
7. Echapp chang, relev 5th, relev devant, relev derrire
8. Pas de bourre piqus - to be demonstrated at the barre or in the centre (candidates choice)
9. Pas de bourre couru
10. Poss coups and embots

Rvrence

INTERMEDIATE MALE
Theory
Each candidate will be asked two questions:
1. Five positions of the feet
2. Five positions of the arms
3. Five positions of the head
4. Seven movements in dancing
5. Correct movements of the foot
6. Theory of port de bras

56

7. Use of the eight fixed points

8. Five arabesques
9. Eight directions of the body
10. The meaning of the French technical terms
Exercices la barre
1. Plis and port de bras
2a Battements tendus
2b Battements dgags
3. Retirs
4. Ronds de jambe terre
5. Grands battements
6. Fondu movements
7a Battements frapps
7b Fouetts terre
8. Petits battements
9. Ronds de jambe en l'air
Adage movements - two adages will be selected by the examiner:
10a Dvelopps
10b Grand fouett
10c Grand rond de jambe and dvelopp en tournant
11. Preparation for fouetts rond de jambe en tournant
12. Battements balancs
13. Preparation for sauts
Exercices au Milieu
1. First set of port de bras
2. Eight directions of the body
3a Grands battements
3b Battements tendus
3c Battements dgags
4. Temps lis
Adage
1. Exercise for arabesques
2. Demi-grand rond de jambe
3. Adage enchanement
Separate components may be requested by the examiner:
3a Exercise for dgag en tournant terre
3b Exercise for fouett en l'air
57

3c Exercise for dvelopp en tournant en dehors

Pirouettes
Pirouettes may be demonstrated singly examiners choice
1. Grande prparation pour pirouettes en dehors
2. Pirouettes en dehors from 4th
3. Pirouettes en dedans from a lunge (without a fouett)
4. Pirouettes en dedans from 4th (with a fouett)

Allegro
Basic steps: each candidate will be asked to demonstrate two as selected by the examiner, either shown singly
or in a series, soutenu or de suite. These steps will not be contained in unseen enchanements assembls devant and derrire, en arrire; assembl coup
ballonn simple, carte
ballonn simple en avant in efface
bris (dessus)
echapp battu (beating out and in)
entrechat trois devant and derrire
glissades en avant et en arrire
grand jet en avant
pas de bourre en avant, en arrire, en tournant en dehors and en dedans
pas de bourre ouvert to 2nd position
sissonnes dessous, dessus and en arrire ouverte

Set enchanements - some of which may be demonstrated singly as requested by the examiner:

Petit and Medium Allegro

1. Assembl, temps lev, assembl coup soutenu; en avant and/or en arrire - examiner's choice
2. Jet temps lev twice, coup dessous, assembl dessous, two changements; may be taken in
reverse - examiner's choice
3. Pas de bourre en tournant, en dehors and en dedans
4. Sissonne en avant ferme, sissonne en avant ouverte, pas de bourr e en avant, changement etc;
may be taken in reverse - examiner's choice
5. Glissade change, assembl dessus, temps lev chass pas de bourr dessous
6. Pas de bourre ouvert and close twice, pas de bourre ouvert and close with entrechat trois, three
petits jets derrire etc
7. Entrechat quatre, entrechat royale, repeat; entrechat trois, assembl coup, repeat; may be taken
in reverse examiner's choice
8. Bris dessus soutenu, repeat; pas de bourre dessus, changement soutenu
Grand Allegro - demonstrated singly
58

A series of grands changements

9. Demi-contretemps, assembl lanc, two soubresauts etc
10. Pas de bourre, grand jet en tournant, 2 steps, pos in 2nd arabesque
11. Temps lev chass, pas de bourre dessous to 4th and cabriole devant ouverte, step, pas de
bourre dessous
12.Tours en diagonale taken to one or both sides:
Petits tours
Male virtuosity
1. Assembls soutenus and de suite
2. Tour en lair taken from a changement
3. Glissade derrire, jet dessus etc
4. Echapps battus changs
5. Tour en lair taken from a relev
6. En diagonale: Temps levs, chasss to 4th devant, with changement en tournant etc demonstrated singly
Candidate's choice of number 2 or number 5
Unseen enchanement: minimum of one sequence to be set by the examiner using not more than four basic
steps from the Graded syllabi
Classical solo
Teacher's own choreography not to exceed one minute. Piano music must be used.
Bow

ADVANCED 1 FEMALE
Theory
As in the Intermediate syllabus
Exercices la barre
The examiner will select either traditional or additional exercises, at least one to be traditional
1a. Plis - traditional exercise
1b. Additional exercise for plis
2a. Battements tendus and battements dgags - traditional exercise
2b. Additional exercise for battements tendus
2c. Additional exercise for battements dgags
3. Battements jets at 45
4a Ronds de jambe terre - traditional exercise
4b Additional exercise for ronds de jambe terre
5. Battements fondus
6a Battements frapps - traditional exercise

59

6b Additional exercise for battements frapps

7. Battements fouetts terre
8a Petits battements - traditional exercise
8b Additional exercise for petits battements
9a Ronds de jambe en l'air - traditional exercise
9b Additional exercise for ronds de jambe en l'air
Adage: the examiner will select one adage:
10a Adage study
10b Jets of adage
11. Grands battements en croix
12a Grands battements with battements balancs - traditional exercise
12b Additional exercise for grands battements and battements balancs
Exercices au Milieu
The examiner will see port de bras and two centre practice exercises. A short free centre practice may also be
set by the examiner
1. 1st and 2nd sets of port de bras.
2a Grands battements to the 4th devant, la 2nde, 4th derrire
2b Grands battements in the eight directions of the body
3. Battements tendus and battements dgags, with ending
4. Ronds de jambe terre with ending
5. Battements frapps and petits battements, with change of foot and first ending
6. Simple free centre practice based on movements from the Intermediate centre practice. This may
include changes of direction and a pirouette
Adage
The movements contained in the Intermediate syllabus with the addition of:
slow lift of the leg; dgag en tournant en l'air; arabesque penche; promenade en dedans in
arabesque and in attitude efface; promenade en dehors in 2nd position; jet movement of adage in
any basic position of the body
Set adages - three adages will be selected, one of which may be demonstrated singly as requested by
the examiner
1. Cinq relevs
2. Grand rond de jambe en dehors et en dedans
3. Study for promenades en arabesque and la 2nde
4. Pas de Chaconne
5. Temps de Courante Cecchetti
Pirouettes
Four will be selected, and may be demonstrated singly as requested by the examiner
60

1. Grande prparation pour pirouette en dedans

2. Pirouettes en dedans en attitude or en arabesque
3. Pirouettes en dehors with extension en l'air
4. Pirouettes en diagonale
5. Fouetts rond de jambe
Allegro
Basic steps: each candidate will be asked to demonstrate two basic steps selected by the examiner taken from
the Intermediate syllabus, with the addition of the following:
entrechat cinq; coup fouett raccourci; bris dessous; cabriole derrire; jet battu la 2nde; grand
jet la 2nde; sissonne battue dessus, dessous, en avant and en arrire; pas de basque en avant and
en arrire; temps de cuisse dessus and dessous
Set enchanements - some of which may be demonstrated singly as requested by the examiner. Candidates
may be asked to show any of the movements contained in the enchanements as a single movement or in a
series:
Petit and Medium Allegro
The examiner will select a minimum of five enchanements
1. Assembls soutenus and de suite
2. Jets battements
3. Ballonn trois temps
4. Jet, double rond de jambe saut
5. Sissonne enchanement
6. Pas de bourre enchanement
7. Entrechat quatre, royale etc
8. Deux briss soutenus, deux briss de suite etc; may be taken in reverse - examiner's choice
Grand Allegro - demonstrated singly
The examiner will select a minimum of four enchanements
9. Assembl, temps lev, assembl. grand temps lev
10. Glissade, assembl, temps lev in arabesque etc
11. Chass, temps lev, pas de bourre, grand jet en tournant
12. Glissade derrire, cabriole devant etc
13a Temps lev chass, fouett relev or
13b Temps lev chass, fouett saut
Autour de la salle:
14a Temps lev chass, pas de bourre dessous, deux pas de chat
Autour de la salle: assessed with pirouettes
14b Chass, temps lev in arabesque, balanc en tournant etc

61

Unseen enchanement: minimum of one sequence to be set by the examiner using not more than four basic
steps from previous syllabi
Classical solo
Teacher's own choreography not to exceed one minute. The solo may be danced on pointe, when it will be
requested after the pointe work. Piano music must be used
Temps de pointe
Those contained in the Intermediate syllabus with the addition of the following:
relevs from one foot extending the other from cou-de-pied to open positions; soutenu turns en
dehors and en dedans; petits tours; coup fouett raccourci; poss tours; petits pas de basque en
tournant; poss dvelopps
Set enchanements - candidates may be asked to demonstrate any of the movements contained in these
enchanements in a series or singly
Barre - the examiner will request a minimum of four exercises
1. Rises in 1st and 2nd positions
2. Echapps and relevs
3. Relevs passs
4. Pas de bourre piqus and coups fouetts raccourcis
5. Relevs to open positions, facing and/or sideways to barre
6. Pos relev in arabesque
Au Milieu - the examiner will request a minimum of five exercises, some of which may be
demonstrated singly as requested by the examiner
1. Echapp chang, relev derrire, chapp sans changer, relev derrire etc
2. Echapp , soussus, relev devant, un tour en dehors
3. Relevs and pirouettes en dehors
4. Pos in 1st arabesque, relev in 1st arabesque
5. Balancs and pirouette en dedans
6. Enchanement with poss coups and relevs in efface
Tours en diagonale: one of which will be taken to both sides
7a Pos tours en dedans
7b Petits pas de basque en tournant en dedans
7c Petits tours
8. Pas de bourre couru
Rvrence

62

ADVANCED 1 MALE
Theory
As in the Intermediate syllabus
Exercices la barre
The examiner will select either traditional or additional exercises, at least one to be traditional
1a. Plis - traditional exercise
1b. Additional exercise for plis
2a. Battements tendus and battements dgags - traditional exercise
2b. Additional exercise for battements tendus
2c. Additional exercise for battements dgags
3. Battements jets at 45
4a Ronds de jambe terre - traditional exercise
4b Additional exercise for ronds de jambe terre
5. Battements fondus
6a Battements frapps - traditional exercise
6b Additional exercise for battements frapps
7. Battements fouetts terre
8a Petits battements - traditional exercise
8b Additional exercise for petits battements
9a Ronds de jambe en l'air - traditional exercise
9b Additional exercise for ronds de jambe en l'air
Adage: the examiner will select one adage:
10a Adage study
10b Jets of adage
11. Grands battements en croix
12a Grands battements with battements balancs - traditional exercise
12b Additional exercise for grands battements and battements balancs

Exercices au Milieu
The examiner will see port de bras and two centre practice exercises. A short free centre practice may also be
set by the examiner
1. 1st and 2nd sets of port de bras.
2a Grands battements to the 4th devant, la 2nde, 4th derrire
2b Grands battements in the eight directions of the body
3. Battements tendus and battements dgags, with ending
4. Ronds de jambe terre with ending
5. Battements frapps and petits battements, with change of foot and first ending
63

6. Simple free centre practice based on movements from the Intermediate centre practice. This may
include changes of direction and a pirouette
Adage
The movements contained in the Intermediate syllabus with the addition of:
slow lift of the leg; dgag en tournant en l'air; arabesque penche; promenade en dedans in
arabesque and in attitude efface; promenade en dehors in 2nd position; jet movement of adage in
any basic position of the body
Set adages - three adages will be selected, one of which may be demonstrated singly as requested by
the examiner
1. Trois relevs
2. Grand rond de jambe en dehors et en dedans
3. Study for promenades en arabesque and la 2nde
4. Deux grands ronds de jambe avec arabesque
5. Coup et fouett
6. Temps li saut
Pirouettes
A minimum of five will be selected and may be demonstrated singly as requested by the examiner
1. Basic pirouettes en dedans from a lunge
2. Basic pirouettes en dehors from 4th, 2nd or 5th
3. Grande prparation pour pirouettes en dedans
4. Pirouettes en dedans en attitude or en arabesque
5. Pirouettes en dehors with extension en l'air
6. Pirouettes en diagonale
7. Tours relevs la 2nde and at the knee
Allegro
Basic steps: each candidate will be asked to demonstrate two basic steps selected by the examiner taken from
the Intermediate syllabus with the addition of the following:
grands jets en attitude and la 2nde; entrechat cinq; entrechat six; entrechat six de ct; double
tour en l'air; sissonne battue dessus, dessous, en avant and an arrire; pas de basque en avant and en
arrire
Set enchanements - some of which may be demonstrated singly as requested by the examiner. Candidates
may be asked to show any of the movements contained in the enchanements as a single movement or in a
series:
Petit and Medium Allegro
The examiner will select a minimum of four enchanements
1. Assembl Cecchetti
64

2. Jets battements
3. Jet, double rond de jambe saut
4. Glissade, jet battu la 2nde etc
5. Entrechat quatre, royale etc
6. Deux briss soutenus, deux briss de suite etc; may be taken in reverse - examiner's choice
Grand Allegro
The examiner will select a minimum of five enchanements
7. Assembl, temps lev, assembl, grand temps lev
8. Glissade derrire, cabriole devant etc
9. Deux chapps sauts, quatre changements etc
10a. Temps lev chass, fouett relev or
10b. Temps lev chass, fouett saut
11. Sissonne enchanement
12. Sissonnes retombes and entrechat six
13. Grands jets en avant and en tournant
Virtuosity demonstrated singly
14. Double tour en l'air
15. Jet, fouett, fouett saut en tournant, temps lev
16. Autour de la salle: coup chass and coup jet en tournant
17. En diagonale: douze jets en tournant and petits tours - taken to both sides
Unseen enchanement: minimum of one sequence to be set by the examiner using not more than four basic
steps from previous syllabi
Classical solo
Teacher's own choreography not to exceed one minute. Piano music must be used
Bow

ADVANCED 2 FEMALE
Theory
Candidates must be conversant with the work of the Intermediate and Advanced 1 syllabi, and know
the English equivalent of all the French terms employed
Exercices la barre
The examiner will select either traditional or additional exercises, at least one to be traditional
1a. Plis -traditional exercise
1b. Additional exercise for plis
2a. Battements tendus, relevs and dgags -traditional exercise
2b. Additional exercise - battements tendus and battements dgags en tournant
65

3. Battements dgags and battements jets

4a Ronds de jambe terre and ronds de jambe jets - traditional exercise
4b. Additional exercise rond de jambe study with battements fondus and ronds de jambe en lair
5. Battements fondus
6a Battements frapps -traditional exercise
6b Additional exercise for battements frapps and fouetts terre en tournant
7. Petits battements and petits battements battus traditional exercise
8a. Ronds de jambe en l'air - traditional exercise
8b. Additional exercise - ronds de jambe en l'air prcipits
9. Adage to be set by the examiner
10a. Grands battements and battements balancs -traditional exercise
10b. Additional exercise for grands battements and battements balancs to be set by the examiner
Exercices au Milieu
The examiner will see port de bras and a minimum of two centre practice exercises
1. 1st set of port de bras with grands battements
2a. Grands battements to the 4th devant, la 2nde, 4th derrire
2b. Grands battements in the eight directions of the body
2c. Grands battements en tournant
3a. Battements tendus and battements dgags, with ending
3b. Battements tendus en tournant
4a. Ronds de jambe terre, with ending
4b. Battements fondus and ronds de jambe en l'air
5. Battements frapps and petits battements, with change of foot and 2nd ending
Adage
The movements contained in the Intermediate and Advanced 1 syllabi with the addition of: promenade en
dedans in 2nd, en dehors in arabesque and in attitude
Set adages - the examiner will select two adages and the candidate will choose the third, one of which may be
demonstrated singly as requested by the examiner. In addition no.6 may be seen at the examiner's discretion
1. Fouett et Ballott or Grand Fouett (candidate's choice)
2. Premire et seconde arabesques
3. Troisime et quatrime arabesques
4. Grand rond de jambe en l'air en tournant avec les jets
5. Glissade, jet, fouett
6. Demi-contretemps, coup rond de jambe, pas de bourre renvers
Pirouettes
66

Those contained in the Intermediate and Advanced 1 syllabi with the addition of the following. The examiner
will select a minimum of four pirouette exercises, some of which may be demonstrated singly as requested
1. Grande prparation pour pirouettes en dedans
2. Liaison de pirouettes en dehors
Candidates choice of 3a or 3b:
3a. Grande prparation, quatre tours relevs la 2nde
3b. Pas de bourre en dedans, tour en dehors la 2nde, pas de bourre en dehors, tour en
dedans la 2nde etc
4. Trois tours en dehors, 1st arabesque croise, dgage en tournant etc
Candidates choice of 5a or 5b
5a. Travelling pirouette with pirouettes en dedans in arabesque, attitude and at the knee
5b. Travelling pirouette with double pirouettes en dedans in attitude and single pirouette en
dedans in arabesque
Allegro
The movements contained in the Intermediate and Advanced 1 syllabi with the addition of: assembl battu;
entrechat quatre vl; gargouillade en dehors and en dedans; pas de bourre fouette saute en tournant;
bris vl
The examiner will select one basic step
Set enchanements -some of which may be demonstrated singly as requested by the examiner. Candidates
may be asked to show any of the movements contained in the enchanements as a single movement or in a
series:
Petit and Medium Allegro
The examiner will set a simple warm up jump and then select a minimum of six enchanements
1. Pas de bourre couru, dgag, petits battements, dgag etc
2. Pas de bourre, dgag, fouett, jet, pas de chat
3. Jet, rond de jambe saut, deux jets, rond de jambe saut
4. Rond de jambe relev en dedans, en dehors, pas de bourre, pas de chat etc
5. Gargouillade, coup etc followed by fouetts ronds de jambe en tournant
6. Deux temps de cuisse, pas de bourre, entrechat quatre
7. Bris, temps de cuisse, pas de bourre, entrechat six; may be taken in reverse - examiner's choice
8. Bris, pas de bourre, bris, pas de bourre, trois briss, pas de bourre
9. Bris, pas de bourre, pas de bourre, tomb en arabesque, pas de bourre
10. Pas de bourre couru into 2nd, entrechat trois (Diamond step)
Grand Allegro
The examiner will select a minimum of five enchanements
11. Temps lev, chass, coup, fouett, pos, assembl, entrechat trois
12. Glissade, assembl, pas de bourre, assembl en tournant
13. Glissade, assembl, jet en avant, pas de bourre en tournant renvers
67

14. Deux jets en attitude, assembl, jet en attitude, pos, assembl etc
15. Pas de bourre couru, jet in 2nd arabesque etc
16. Glissade, cabriole devant, glissade, cabriole derrire etc
17. Fouett saut six temps: number 1
18. Deux grands jets en tournant, pos, cabriole devant, relev
19. Ballott en avant, ballott en arrire etc
20. Tour en diagonale: jet, jet, assembl, temps lev en tournant
Unseen enchanement: minimum of one sequence to be set by the examiner using steps from previous syllabi

Temps de pointe
Steps and exercises contained in the Intermediate and Advanced 1 syllabi, some of which may be used as a
warm-up exercise, either in a series or as single movements. In addition, the examiner will select a minimum of
five of the following:
1. Glissades sur les pointes
2. Temps de Courante
3. Trois relevs pass en arrire, relev pass en avant, relev pass en arrire
4. Relev devant, relev tour en dehors etc
5. Entrechat quatre, entrechat royale etc
6a En diagonale: 1 tours en dedans and tour en dehors
6b. En diagonale: pirouette enchanement incorporating petit pas de basque en dedans, poss piqus,
pose tours en dedans and petits tours
7. Series of relevs in 1st arabesque
8. Fouetts rond de jambe en tournant
Autour de la salle:
9. Pos tours en dedans and petits tours
10. Consecutive relevs in open positions
Classical Solo
Candidates will be required to perform a short repertoire solo (which may be danced to orchestral music) or a
dance of their own choice to piano music. The solo will be danced on pointe
Rvrence

ADVANCED 2 MALE
Theory
Candidates must be conversant with the work of the Intermediate and Advanced 1 syllabi, and know the
English equivalent of all the French terms employed
Exercices la barre

68

The examiner will select either traditional or additional exercises, at least one to be traditional
1a. Plis -traditional exercise
1b. Additional exercise for plis
2a. Battements tendus, relevs and dgags -traditional exercise
2b. Additional exercise - battements tendus and battements dgags en tournant
3. Battements dgags and battements jets
4a Ronds de jambe terre and ronds de jambe jets - traditional exercise
4b. Additional exercise rond de jambe study with battements fondus and ronds de jambe en lair
5. Battements fondus
6a Battements frapps -traditional exercise
6b Additional exercise for battements frapps and fouetts terre en tournant
7. Petits battements and petits battements battus traditional exercise
8a. Ronds de jambe en l'air - traditional exercise
8b. Additional exercise - ronds de jambe en l'air prcipits
9. Adage to be set by the examiner
10a. Grands battements and battements balancs -traditional exercise
10b. Additional exercise for grands battements and battements balancs to be set by the examiner

Exercices au Milieu
The examiner will see port de bras and a minimum of two centre practice exercises
1. 1st set of port de bras with grands battements
2a. Grands battements to the 4th devant, la 2nde, 4th derrire
2b. Grands battements in the eight directions of the body
2c. Grands battements en tournant
3a. Battements tendus and battements dgags, with ending
3b. Battements tendus en tournant
4a. Ronds de jambe terre, with ending
4b. Battements fondus and ronds de jambe en l'air
5. Battements frapps and petits battements, with change of foot and 2nd ending

Adage
The movements contained in the Intermediate and Advanced 1 syllabi with the addition of:
promenade en dedans in 2nd, en dehors in arabesque and in attitude
Set adages -the examiner will select two adages and the candidate will choose the third, one of which may be
demonstrated singly as requested by the examiner:
1. Fouett et Ballott or Grand Fouett (candidate's choice)
2. Premire et seconde arabesques

69

3. Grand rond de jambe en l'air en tournant avec les jets

4. Glissade, jet, fouett
5. Dvelopp Cecchetti
Pirouettes
Those contained in the Intermediate and Advanced 1 syllabi with the addition of the following. The examiner
will select a minimum of five pirouette exercises, some of which may be demonstrated singly as requested:
1a. Quatre pirouettes en dedans
1b. Travelling pirouette with double pirouettes end dedans in attitude and single pirouette en dedans
in arabesque
2. Liaison de pirouettes
3. Grande prparation, quatre tours relevs la 2nde
4. Grande pirouette pour Cavalier
5. Men's Temps de Courante
6. Temps li saut en tournant
7. Travelling pirouette with triple pirouettes en dehors and en dedans
Allegro
The movements contained in the Intermediate and Advanced 1 syllabi with the addition of:
Assembl battu; pas de bourre fouett saut en tournant; bris vl ; temps de poisson
The examiner will select one basic step
Set enchanements some of which may be demonstrated singly as requested by the examiner. Candidates
may be asked to show any of the movements contained in the enchanements as a single movement or in a
series:
Petit and Medium Allegro
The examiner will set a simple warm up jump and then select a minimum of three enchanements
1. Jet battement, rond de jambe saut, relev battement, rond de jambe saut; may be taken in
reverse examiner's choice
2. Jet, rond de jambe saut
3. Deux temps de cuisse, pas de bourre, entrechat quatre
4. Bris, temps de cuisse, pas de bourre, entrechat six; may be taken in reverse - examiner's choice
5. Bris, pas de bourre, bris, pas de bourre, trois briss, pas de bourre
6. Pas de bourre couru into 2nd, entrechat trois (Diamond step)
Grand Allegro
The examiner will select a minimum of six allegro enchanements:
7. Temps lev, chass, coup, fouett, pos, assembl, entrechat trois
8. Glissade, assembl , pas de bourre, assembl en tournant
9. Glissade, assembl , jet en avant, pas de bourre en tournant renvers
10. Jet, rond de jambe saut, assembl, rond de jambe saut; may be taken in reverse - examiner's
choice
70

11. Double rond de jambe saut, pos en avant

12. Deux jets en attitude, assembl, jet en attitude, pos assembl etc
13. Glissade derrire, jet to arabesque croise, dgag en tournant, entrechat six
14. Glissade, cabriole devant, glissade, cabriole derrire etc
15. Fouett saut quatre temps
Virtuosity demonstrated singly
16a Demi-contretemps, entrechat six de ct
16b Autour de la salle: pas de bourre, entrechat six en tournant
17. Bris, cabriole ferm, entrechat quatre, entrechat trois
18. Fouett saut six temps en arrire: number 2
19a. En diagonale: temps levs chasss en arrire, with double tour en l'air
19b.En diagonale: tour en lair and pirouettes
20. Autour de la salle: pas de bourre en tournant, jet, coup jet en tournant
Unseen enchanement: minimum of two sequences to be set by the examiner using steps from previous syllabi

Classical Solo
Candidates will be required to perform a short repertoire solo (which may be danced to orchestral music) or a
dance of their own choice to piano music
Bow

ASSESSMENT - VOCATIONAL GRADED EXAMINATIONS

MARK SCHEME
INTERMEDIATE FOUNDATION
Title of component

Marks attainable

TECHNIQUE
Barre and centre practice

10

Port de bras

10

Adage

10

Pirouettes (including en diagonale)

10

Allegro

10

Pointe work/male virtuosity

10
Section Total 60

71

PRESENTATION, MUSICALITY AND RESPONSE

Sense of performance and enjoyment

10

Rhythm, musicality and co-ordination

10

Approach to free work, syllabus knowledge and theory

10

Variation

10
Section Total 40
Total 100

INTERMEDIATE, ADVANCED 1 AND ADVANCED 2

Title of component

Marks attainable

TECHNIQUE
Barre and centre practice

10

Port de bras

10

Adage

10

Pirouettes (including en diagonale)

10

Petit and medium allegro

10

Grand allegro

10

Pointe work/male virtuosity

10
Section Total 70

PRESENTATION, MUSICALITY AND RESPONSE

Artistry and musicality

10

Approach to free work, syllabus knowledge and theory

10

Variation

10
Section Total 30
Total 100

METHOD OF ASSESSMENT
Vocational Graded Examinations are assessed externally by visiting examiners recruited and trained by the
ISTD. Assessment is carried out by means of a practical demonstration of the knowledge, understanding and
skills required.
The examination is divided into units and each unit is composed of several components, which are separately
assessed and aggregated to give the unit total out of 100.
72

Candidates will, however, be unsuccessful if:

1. 20% of the marks attainable or below are given for any one component
2. 40% of the marks attainable or below are given for any three components This reflects the need to ensure
competence across a wide range of components.
Results are indicated using the following attainment bands:
Grade

Mark

Distinction

80-100

Merit

65-79

Pass

50-64

Not Attained

00-49

CLASSIFICATION OF RESULTS
The principle of best fit is applied in deciding the appropriate classification for each candidate. It is not to be
expected that a candidate in a particular category will necessarily demonstrate all of the characteristics listed
in that category.
A candidate who achieves a `Distinction' classification (80-100 marks) is one who demonstrates the following
attributes in performance:

Flair, vitality and skill

Fully appropriate style

Incisively-focussed dancing

Precision in the technique of the genre

Consistent, highly developed musicality

Confident and accurate responses to questions asked and/or tasks set

A candidate who achieves a `Merit' classification (65-79 marks) is one who demonstrates the following
attributes in performance:

Skill and proficiency

Largely appropriate style

Focussed dancing

Competence in the technique of the genre

Evidence of developing musicality

Relevant and appropriate responses to questions asked and/or tasks set

A candidate who achieves a `Pass' classification (50-64 marks) is one who demonstrates the following
attributes in performance:

Competence

Basic ability to carry out the required movements

Periodic moments of convincing focus

73

Basic competence in most aspects of the technique of the genre

Basic musicality

Broadly relevant and appropriate response to questions asked and/or asks set, but some prompting may
be required

A candidate who achieves a `Not attained' classification (00-49 marks) is one who has not yet demonstrated
the attributes required to gain at least a `Pass' classification.

ASSESSMENT GUIDANCE
Candidates are assessed on their ability to demonstrate:

Technical accuracy with a controlled use of correct anatomical alignment and placement to the best of the
physical facility, and showing an understanding of the purpose of each exercise

A sense of line with projection of focus

The ability to co-ordinate fluently

An assured performance showing the differing qualities of movement required by each section of the
examination structure

An intuitive musicality and highly developed sense of rhythm leading to clarity of timing and a sensitive
response to music and phrasing

74

ENRICO CECCHETTI DIPLOMA

ENTRY CONDITIONS AND GENERAL INFORMATION
Candidates should have a full and complete knowledge of the entire Cecchetti Method as contained in the
Manual and the two Allegro books.
This examination may be taken by candidates who have not entered any other major Cecchetti examinations
but conveys no teaching status in the Imperial Society.
TIME ALLOWANCES/NUMBER OF CANDIDATES
Candidates should be entered singly
Examination

1 candidate

2 candidates

3 candidates

Enrico Cecchetti Diploma

150 minutes

N/A

N/A

SYLLABUS CONTENT
1. Barre
Set by the examiners on the lines of the traditional barre.
2. Port de bras and centre practice
Traditional centre practice.
3. Adage
Music Page/No.
42/15

Rond de jambe dvelopp

46

Dvelopp Fouett Cecchetti

40 or 35

Pas de Chaconne Cecchetti

47

Tours en dedans de pirouette renverss, dvelopp la 2nde

36

Pas de la Mascotte et Pirouette de la Mascotte

48 or 49

Pas de l'Alliance

37/8

Glissade Cecchetti

24/2

Glissade arabesque et pas de bourr renvers

37/9

Glissade de Mami

32/1

10

Huit or Six relevs

4. Centre Pirouettes
Music Page/No.

75

24/2

Deux tours de pirouettes sur le cou-de-pied, jet, assembl, entrechat

quatre

25/3

Pirouette en dehors sur le cou-de-pied, finishing with chapp (1- 4 turns)

25/3

Pirouettes en dehors la 2nde et sur le cou-de-pied, (1- 4 turns)

25/3

Pirouette en dehors la 2nde, (1-4 turns)

25/3

Pirouette en dehors ending sur le cou-de-pied, (1- 4 turns)

25/3

Pirouette en dehors la 2nde, followed by 1, 2 and 3 tours en arabesque

25/3

Deux tours en dehors, rond de jambe to attitude croise, un tour en

dedans, un tour renvers

8/4 or 28/7

Pas de bourre en dedans, tour en dehors la 2nde, pas de bourre en

dehors, tour en dedans la 2nde, pas de bourre en dedans, relev
devant, deux tours en dehors, pas de bourre renvers (pointe)

31

Coup, fouett saut, pos, un tour en dedans, un tour renvers, jet,

chass

26

10

Deux tours en dehors finishing a la 2nde, deux tours relevs la 2nde.

Repeat three times with chapp ending

30/11

11

Dvelopps en tournant en dehors sur les pointes (pointe)

28/7

12

Series of coup, rond de jambe, pas de bourre renvers (pointe)

26

13

Series of tours en dehors relevs, in attitude, and at the knee (pointe)

53/5

Dvelopp crois avec relev, glissade, entrechat six de ct (pointe)

53/4

a. Demi-contretemps, entrechat six de ct (en diagonale, 4 times)

or 66/22

5. Allegro
Monday

b. Pas de bourre, entrechat six en tournant (autour de la salle, 6 times)

and petits tours
Tuesday
58/11

Pas de bourre, dgage, petits battements, dgag, fouett, jet, chass,

pas de chat

58/12

Relev , petits battements, pos, petits battements, pas de

bourre, pas de bourre with allong (pointe)

60

Jet battement, rond de jambe saut, relev battement,

rond de jambe saut en avant et en arrire (pointe)

27

Pas de bourre, pos, fouett to arabesque, tomb, pas de

chat (pointe)

57

Douze ballonns piqus, tomb, pas de bourre, huit emboits, deux

gargouillades en dehors, chapp, double pirouette en dehors (pointe)

59

Jet , petits battements, deux ballonns, en avant et en arrire (pointe)

Wednesday

76

60

Jet, rond de jambe saut - repeat. Jet, trois ronds de jambe sauts taken
en tournant (en avant et en arrire)

58/11

Temps lev dvelopp, temps lev fouett, jet, gargouillade vle, deux
jets (executed 3 times and turn). Repeat three times to other side (finish
with petits tours) (pointe)

63

Deux gargouillades en dehors (slow), deux gargouillades en dehors (quick),

une gargouillade en dedans, une gargouillade en dehors

63

Gargouillade en dehors, gargouillade en dedans, en diagonale

57

Coup dessus en tournant, sept ronds de jambe en tournant en dehors,

jet, sept ronds de jambe en tournant en dedans, jet, sept ronds de
jambe en tournant en dehors, petits tours

66

Demi-contretemps, rond de jambe relev, jet devant allong into

arabesque, relev dveloppe croise devant, tomb, relev degage en
tournant, jet rond de jambe (jou), relev en attitude, pas de bourre
dessous (pointe)

62/17 or

Rond de jambe relev retomb (twice), rond de jambe relev, jet, pas de
bourre en dehors (travelled), gargouillade en dehors (pointe)

Full contretemps, assembl dessus, double rond de jambe saut, relev en

attitude. Executed three times ending with pas de bourre dessous, full
contretemps, glissade, assembl dessus, relev in 5th (pointe)

67/24

Glissade derrire, jet to arabesque croise, assemble coup derrire, jet

to attitude (en tournant), deux jets en attitude, assemble coup derrire,
entrechat six

66/23 or

Glissade derrire, jet to arabesque croise, dgag en tournant,

entrechat six

64/20

Pas de bourre couru, jet en attitude executed 4 times ending with deux
petits jets. Pas de bourre couru, tour la 2nde saut, pas de bourre
couru en tournant, chass, relev in 3rd arabesque, pas de bourre couru
en arrire, grand jet en tournant, deux tours en dedans, finishing in 5th
arabesque (pointe)

55

Pas de bourre couru, grand jet en tournant, pas de bourre couru,

fouett saut en tournant into 1st arabesque

65

Jet, relev, pose coup, 5 times with ending (pointe)

Bris vl en avant, bris vole en arrire, grand pas de basque, entrechat

trois

68

Jet battu, fouett battu, coup, jet battu (en avant et en arrire)

68

Pas de basque battu, pas de basque battu en tournant, entrechat quatre,

entrechat six

74

Pos cabriole devant, 3 times, pas de bourre dessus into 4th arabesque
allonge. Repeat all 3 times with ending

58/11
58/11 or
28/8
Thursday

67

Friday
70/28 or
66/23

77

68

Entrechat quatre, entrechat quatre vl, repeat, trois entrechat quatre,

entrechat six

70/28

Bris dessus, cabriole devant ferme, entrechat quatre, entrechat trois,

bris vole en avant, cabriole fouett, jet battu, cabriole derrire ferme

73/32

Fouett saut six temps, No. 2 en avant et en arrire

71/30

Coup saut ballonn, jet en tournant, pose, jet, pos, jet

66/23

Temps lev, chasse en arrire (twice), temps lev pos (twice), jet lanc
to attitude, pas de bourre renvers, assembl coup derrire, entrechat
six

75/35

Temps lev, chass crois, temps lev in arabesque croise, coupe

dessous, ballonn, grand jet en tournant, pos

77/3

Pos, petits battements en tournant, jet en arabesque (pointe)

76/1

Chass, quatre temps levs in 4th arabesque (en tournant), deux tours en
dedans (pointe), coup

76/1

Pas de bourre en dedans, jet, fouett en tournant en dedans, dvelopp

into arabesque (either relev or with temps lev) (pointe)

77/3

Quatre jets en tournant, deux fouetts rond de jambe en dehors, deux

jets en tournant, fouett rond de jambe ; deux jets en tournant, fouett
rond de jambe, quatre jets en tournant, six fouetts rond de jambe en
dehors (the 6th a double turn) (pointe)

76/1

Deux jets en tournant, assembl, temps lev en tournant, fouett en

tournant en dehors and en dedans (pointe)

76/2

Petit pas de basque en tournant, fouett rond de jambe en dehors (pointe)

78

Relev lanc en attitude, relev en tournant, relev devant, relev double

pirouette en dehors (pointe)

76/2

Coup, fouett, coup, fouett en tournant, coup, pas de basque, tour en

attitude renvers (pointe)

60

Changements sur les pointes renverss (pointe)

77/3

10

Grand pas de basque saut, pas de bourre couru en tournant (pointe)

76/1

11

Pas de bourre en tournant, fouett saut, dvelopp en tournant, jet,

deux tours en dedans, tomb into arabesque croise, relev, dvelopp en
tournant, jet (pointe)

72

12

Relev lanc into 1st arabesque, retire en tournant (pointe)

Saturday

6. En Diagonale

78

77/3

13

Series of embits en tournant en dehors

76/1

14

Pas de bourre en tournant, coup, trois temps lev in 2nd arabesque en

tournant, dvelopp en tournant, tomb, jet en attitude, pas de bourre
en tournant (renvers) (pointe)

75/35

15

Temps lev chasse (twice), deux tours en dehors with arm movement and
renvers

7. Autour de la Salle
76/2

Quatre jets en tournant, trois petits tours (pointe)

77/3

Pas de bourre en tournant, jet lanc en arabesque, coup, jet en

tournant

69

Chass, coup, pas de basque saut, pas de bourre en tournant

66/23

Pos dvelopp en tournant renvers, pas de bourre (pointe)

77/4

Pas de bourre, temps lev en tournant, jet in 4th arabesque

77/3

Pas de bourre en tournant en dedans, jet lanc in 4th arabesque

8. Supplementary Pointe Steps

78 or 79/2

Echapp, relev to 4th devant croise, trois jets piqus, assembl devant

78

Deux emboits relevs, relev lanc into 1st arabesque croise, retir en
tournant, double pirouette en dehors

Grands battements la 2nde (2 slow, 3 quick)

79/2

Trois relevs en carte, double rond de jambe en dehors, fouett et

fondu

28/8

Jet la 2nde, relev 2nde (3 times), pli, relev 2nde

67/24

Assembl coup derrire, jet crois, assembl coup derrire, temps de

poisson

67/24

Double tour en l'air (foot at the knee), chass en arabesque and repeat.
Glissade, cabriole devant, temps lev, pas de bourre

62/16

Series of coups jets en tournant round the room

24/2

Grande prparation pour pirouette and double pirouette en dehors,

dvelopp la 2nde, relev petits battements, dvelopp la 2nde, pas de
bourre dessous

9. Steps for Men

79

ASSESSMENT
MARK SCHEME
Title of component

Marks attainable

TECHNIQUE AND SYLLABUS KNOWLEDGE

Barre

10

Port de bras and centre practice

10

Adage

40

Centre pirouettes

20

Allegro

40

Tours en diagonale

10

Autour de la salle

10

Supplementary pointe/steps for men

10
Section Total 150

PRESENTATION AND RESPONSE

Artistry, musicality and in-depth understanding of the Cecchetti Method

50

Section Total 50
Total 200
These marks are aggregated and the overall mark is given out of 200 as follows:
Awarded 130 +
Not Awarded 0-129

PROFESSIONAL TEACHING EXAMINATIONS

UK AND EUROPE
A separate Syllabus Outline is available from ISTD Headquarters for the:
Level 3 Diploma in Dance Instruction
Level 4 Diploma in Dance Education
Level 6 Diploma in Dance Pedagogy
The syllabus for Licentiate and Fellowship is given on the following pages.

80

OUTSIDE EUROPE
ASSOCIATE
OBJECTIVES

to educate by providing a progressive awareness of the culture and technique of classical ballet

to develop the teachers understanding and ability to impart the technique, artistry and musicality of

Cecchetti Classical ballet

to provide the teachers with a sound understanding of safe dance practice through an increased

Knowledge of anatomy and physiology

to provide a structured examination system that can be followed by aspiring and established teachers

To develop and enhance their teaching skills

to stimulate teachers to increase and broaden their expertise

to stimulate teachers to inspire children and students to appreciate classical ballet either as
performers or as an observer

AIMS
The syllabus seeks to increase the skills, analysis and understanding of Cecchetti Classical Ballet in order to
communicate this to others in a safe and creative environment.
The syllabus aims are:

knowledge of all the relevant set syllabus exercises

the understanding of correct posture and its application

the analysis and understanding of the technique at all levels

to promote knowledge of related exercises other than in the set syllabus

to develop the understanding of methods of teaching

to develop the observational skills

the understanding of different physiques and anatomical corrections

to gain communication skills

to be able to relate to students of varying ages

to appreciate a variety of musical styles

develop the creative use of rhythm

appreciation and application of tone

the understanding and application of dynamics

81

to be able to arrange creative sequences of movement

to develop choreographic skills

ENTRY CONDITIONS AND GENERAL INFORMATION

In the Associate the candidate demonstrates their theoretical approach to teaching. The examination is
conducted by one examiner, in the order of a class, commencing with the barre work and then progressing
through the centre practice, port de bras, adage, pirouettes, allegro, petite batterie and pointe work. The set
variations are usually shown at the end of the examination. The variations which the candidate has prepared
will be shown in the relevant section. In each section the candidate will be asked about their knowledge and
understanding of the development of movements. Set exercises and movements will be demonstrated and
analysed, methods of teaching discussed and enchanements arranged. If not specified these enchanements
are typical examination arrangements, however the examiner might request an arrangement for a certain
circumstance, for instance a training exercise to develop a particular aspect of the work.
The practical examination covers teaching knowledge and a creative approach to the syllabus. The candidate is
expected to show an ability to communicate clearly with both the examiner and the pianist, in a manner
suitable for Cecchetti Classical Ballet training, both physically and verbally. This includes competence in verbal
instruction.
AGE LIMITS
Candidates must have reached the age of 18 years*
This is to ensure that they are able to be responsible for children.
* In special circumstances the examination may be entered under this age if approved by the Chairman of the
Cecchetti Classical Ballet Faculty, after written application to Customer Services and Quality Assurance at HQ
by the principal of the school entering the candidate.
PRIOR LEARNING
Candidates must have passed the Intermediate examination in Cecchetti Classical Ballet or Imperial Classical
Ballet.
TIME ALLOWANCE
Duration of examination: 90 minutes
DRESS
Females - Plain leotard and pink tights with a skirt short enough to show the knees and thighs when
demonstrating. Ballet shoes or suitable teaching shoes.

Males - Leotard or T-shirt with tights or suitable teaching trousers (not track suits). Ballet shoes or suitable
teaching shoes

SYLLABUS CONTENT
Candidates will be examined on:
82

a)

all the boys and girls work of the Grades and Intermediate syllabi

b)

the following additions from the Advanced 1 syllabus:

The second set of port de bras

The traditional Cecchetti centre practice exercises for:

o

Battements tendus et battements dgags, with ending

Ronds de jambe terre, en dehors et en dedans, with ending

Battements frapps et petits battements with change of foot and first ending

Pas de Chaconne and Coup et Fouett

Grande prparation pour pirouettes en dedans

The following allegro enchanements from the Advanced 1 syllabus:

Monday

Assembl, temps lev, assembl, grand temps lev - en avant et en arrire

Tuesday

Jets battements en avant et en arrire

Wednesday

Jet, double rond de jambe saut en avant et en arrire

Thursday

Glissade, jet battu la 2nde, glissade, jet battu la 2nde, deux jets en attitude,
assembl coup derrire, grand changement or entrechat six

Friday

Entrechat quatre, royale, entrechat quatre, royale, trois entrechats quatre, grand
changement or entrechat six

Saturday

Temps lev chass, fouett relev ou saut

In addition to the above, candidates should show one other allegro enchanement (of their own choice) from
the remainder of the Advanced 1 syllabus, plus the following basic movements in addition to those already
contained in the Grades and in the Intermediate syllabus:
Sissonnes changes en avant et en arrire, temps de cuisse dessus et dessous, bris dessous and pas de
basque en avant et en arrire.
Candidates will be asked to demonstrate, from the teaching aspect, any of the following:
the development of technique in the Cecchetti method of training, through the Grades and Intermediate
syllabi, and how these prepare for and evolve into the Advanced 1 work covered

the theory of the technique and principles as laid down in the Cecchetti Manual

an understanding of correct stance, common faults and their correction

the approach to the teaching of a) pointe work and b) boys

Candidates will be expected to demonstrate:

an ability to count any exercise, demonstrating the correct tempo, accents and quality required, and be
conversant with ways in which the music can be counted
how to lead dancers and pianists confidently into the start of an exercise

83

the use of musical phrasing to enhance a movement

an ability to communicate with the pianist in basic musical terminology

Candidates will bring to the examination six short class enchanements of their own arrangement. These
should be one for a girl and one for a boy for each of the following levels: Grade 3, Grade 5 and Intermediate.
Candidates will be questioned on the purpose of these enchanements in the class and their suitability, and on
the choice of music in varying time signatures.
Voice, manner and general approach will be taken into consideration
It is recommended that candidates be familiar with the courses of study on pointe work and pirouettes,
prepared by Barbara Fewster for the Cecchetti Society, and the guidelines on musical knowledge, prepared by
Ross Alley for the Cecchetti Society
ASSESSMENT
The Associate examination is divided into several components, which are separately assessed with a mark as
shown below.
Title of component

Marks attainable

Knowledge of the content and development through the syllabus

30 marks

Analysis and understanding of movements

30 marks

Methods of teaching and awareness of the adaptation to differing physique and

gender

30 marks

Technical accuracy of demonstration

30 marks

Musicality, style and quality of movement

20 marks

Musical instruction and rapport with the pianist

20 marks

Tonal quality and rhythmic counting

20 marks

Free enchanements

10 marks

Pre-arranged enchanements

10 marks
Total

200

These marks are aggregated and the overall mark is given out of 200 as follows:
Awarded
Not Awarded

130+ marks
0-129 marks

ASSOCIATE DIPLOMA
ENTRY CONDITIONS AND GENERAL INFORMATION
This examination can be entered at the candidates own studio or at a centre. In both cases the candidate
must provide the dancers and a pianist.
Dance students names must be provided to the ISTD at the time of examination application.
84

AGE LIMITS
Candidates must have reached the age of 21 years. This is to ensure they have completed the entry
requirement of experience as a responsible adult.
PRIOR LEARNING
Candidates must:
a) hold the Associate qualification in Cecchetti Society Classical Ballet Faculty
b) have completed 3 years of responsible teaching in the Cecchetti Classical Ballet Faculty
TIME ALLOWANCE
Duration of examination: 90 minutes
DRESS
Female - Teaching dress or leotard and skirt, tights and suitable teaching shoes
Male - Leotard or T-shirt with tights or trousers and shoes suitable for teaching
SYLLABUS CONTENT
Candidates will be required to take a Teaching Assessment class using the set syllabus work at any level from
Grade or Class Examination 3 upwards. This is the candidates choice, which must be notified in advance.
Pupils in the class should be working on the grade selected, may have passed the grade, but may not have
passed the grade above.
Candidates will:

take a class (minimum of 6 dancers) based on syllabus work at any Grade or Class Examination, the level to
be from 3 upwards (candidates choice), to last about 45 minutes

show imaginative use of the syllabus at any of the above levels in a prepared arrangement for three or
more dancers. Levels or dancers may differ from the class (to last a maximum of 2 minutes).

teach selected exercises or steps as requested by the examiner

conduct a one-to-one coaching session as requested by the examiner

discuss the approach to teaching and general corrections

ASSESSMENT
Candidates will be examined singly by one examiner
MARK SCHEME
Title of component

Marks attainable

Class content and suitability of exercises

20 marks

Manner and clarity of instruction

20 marks

Observation of general and individual faults

20 marks

85

Effectiveness of correction

20 marks

Methods of teaching and awareness of adaptation to differing physique / gender

20 marks

Rapport with students and pianist

20 marks

Musical instruction, tonal quality and rhythmic counting

20 marks

Group arrangement

20 marks

Effectiveness of coaching / teaching session

20 marks

Ability to discuss the approach to teaching and general corrections

20 marks
Total

200

These marks are aggregated and the overall mark is given out of 200 as follows:
Awarded
Not Awarded

130+ marks
0-129 marks

86

HIGHER PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS

UK, EUROPE & INTERNATIONAL
LICENTIATE
ENTRY CONDITIONS AND GENERAL INFORMATION
This examination can be entered at the candidates own studio or at a centre. In both cases the candidate
must provide the dancers and the pianist.
Dance students names must be provided to the ISTD at the time of examination application.
AGE LIMITS
Candidates must have reached the age of 23 years. This is to ensure they meet the entry criteria as a
responsible adult.
PRIOR LEARNING
Candidates must:
a) have passed the Advanced 1 in Cecchetti Society Classical Ballet
b) hold the Associate Diploma, the Certificate in Dance Education, or the Diploma in Dance Education
qualifications in the Cecchetti Classical Ballet Faculty
c) have completed 5 years of responsible teaching in the Cecchetti Society Classical Ballet Faculty
TIME ALLOWANCE
Duration of total Examination: 2 hours 15 minutes.
DRESS
Females - Plain leotard and pink tights with a skirt short enough to show the knees and thighs when
demonstrating. Ballet shoes or suitable teaching shoes.
Males - Leotard or T-shirt with tights or suitable teaching trousers (not track suits). Ballet shoes or suitable
teaching shoes.
SYLLABUS CONTENT
Candidates will be given the choice of teaching a class of their own pupils, either at Grade 6 level or of students
at Advanced 1 level.
The class, which should last 1 hour and 15 minutes, should consist of approximately equal parts of the syllabus
work and the candidate's own arrangements based on the Cecchetti principles.
They will be examined on:

the principles of teaching (arising in part from the class).

the use of the syllabus to develop technique up to Grade 6 or Advanced 1 standard.

87

their knowledge of all the boys' and girls' work up to and including the Advanced 1 syllabus in
demonstration and theoretical explanation.

arranging a classical enchanement at Advanced 1 level of not more than 30 seconds duration to music
provided (a choice will be given).

ASSESSMENT
Candidates are examined singly by one examiner recruited and trained by the ISTD. Assessment is carried out
by means of a practical demonstration of the knowledge, understanding and skills required.
Mark scheme
Title of component

Marks attainable

Class content and balance

20

Suitability of exercises and enchanements

20

Manner and clarity of instruction

20

Observation and methods of technical instruction

20

Observation and methods of artistic and musical development

20

Rapport with students and pianist, and use of voice

20

Syllabus knowledge

20

Analysis of movement

20

Methods of teaching and awareness of adaptation to differing physique and

gender

20

Arrangement of classical enchanement

20
Total 200

These marks are aggregated and the overall mark is given out of 200 as follows:
Awarded 130 +
Not Awarded 0-129

FELLOWSHIP
The Fellowship is the highest qualification awarded by the ISTD. Candidates will, therefore, be expected to be
creative, show breadth and depth of knowledge and a very high standard of teaching.
ENTRY CONDITIONS AND GENERAL INFORMATION
In the UK, this examination can only be entered at ISTD2 or a regional centre. Overseas, candidates should be
aware that it may be scheduled to take place anywhere within their own country and not necessarily within
their own school or own city.
The ISTD will arrange up to 3 or 4 students for the class for Section 1.

88

Candidates taking the Fellowship examination outside the UK should provide a pianist. At ISTD HQ a pianist will
be provided. At regional centres candidates should check this provision with the centre organiser.
Candidates must forward a copy of typed notes and the sheet music of one of the dances to be shown in the
examination to Headquarters with their entry form
AGE LIMITS
Candidates must have reached the age of 28 years. This is to ensure they meet the entry criteria as a
responsible adult.
PRIOR LEARNING
Candidates must:
a) have passed the Advanced 2 in Cecchetti Society Classical Ballet
b) hold the Licentiate or the Diploma in Dance Pedagogy qualifications in the Cecchetti Society Classical Ballet
Faculty
c) have completed 8 years of responsible teaching in the Cecchetti Society Classical Ballet Faculty
TIME ALLOWANCE
Duration of Examination: 2 hours 30 minutes.
DRESS
Females: Plain leotard and pink tights with a skirt short enough to show the knees and thighs when
demonstrating. Ballet shoes or suitable teaching shoes.
Males: Leotard or T-shirt with tights or suitable teaching trousers (not track suits). Ballet shoes or suitable
teaching shoes.

SYLLABUS CONTENT

The candidate should have:

a thorough knowledge of all the Vocational Graded examinations syllabi through to Advanced 2.

studied a selection of their own choice from the Enrico Cecchetti Diploma syllabus. This should consist
of two adages, two centre pirouettes, two diagonal turns, and one allegro for each day of the week.
NOTE A list of Cecchetti Diploma work chosen should be handed to the examiners before the start of
the examination.

arranged dances at Grade 2 (demi-charactre), Intermediate and Advanced 2 levels.

The examination will be conducted in the following manner:

A brief discussion will take place between the examiners and the candidate on his/her teaching experience
teaching and her/ his understanding of the Cecchetti principles. The candidate will then be asked to:

89

teach work chosen by the examiners from the Advanced 2 syllabus, and from the candidate's own
choice of Diploma work, to up to four students provided by the ISTD. The class should have a short
warm-up' barre of 15 minutes. The class should last about 1 hour and 15 minutes.

explain the way in which they would adapt the syllabus work to individual requirements.

show dances arranged at Grade 2 (demi-charactre), Intermediate and Advanced 2 levels either
danced by a pupil or themselves.

ASSESSMENT
Candidates will be examined singly before two examiners at the London centre.
Mark scheme
Title of component

Marks attainable

Syllabus knowledge

20

Understanding of the Cecchetti principles

20

Manner and clarity of instruction

20

Observation and methods of technical instructionn

30

Observation and methods of artistic and musical development

30

Rapport with students and pianist, and use of voice

20

Analysis of movement

20

Methods of teaching and awareness of adaptation to differing physique and

gender

20

Dances and clarity of notes

20

Total

200

These marks are aggregated and the overall mark is given out of 200 as follows:
Awarded 130 +
Not Awarded 0-129

REASONABLE ADJUSTMENTS
The ISTD policy and procedure for all reasonable adjustments for all qualifications is contained within the
Equal Opportunties policy on the ISTD website. The Vocational Graded Examinations and Professional
Qualifications are designed for those who are intending to pursue a career in dance, either as a performer or
as a teacher. It is, therefore, very unlikely that a potential performer will require reasonable adjustments.
However, a potential teacher must be able to demonstrate all movements precisely, in order to teach them
effectively. As the Intermediate examination is also now included as a unit within the Diploma in Dance
Instruction, it is likely some candidates will apply for adjustments. This is because they are:

90

Those candidates who are possibly already teaching and who do not have the stamina or muscular
strength that is normally required at this level, and it would be deemed to be unsafe to require them
to perform using the same degree of strength and stamina as a younger dancer.
Candidates who do not have sufficient physical facility to perform the movements at speed to the
required standard, but who can nevertheless demonstrate them at a slower pace.
Candidates who, through their physical make up, would be causing injury to themselves, eg very stiff
feet.

The same criteria apply to candidates at higher levels. Such candidates must apply to the Customer Services
and Quality Assurance Department, using the Application for Reasonable Adjustments form, at least three
weeks prior to the examination entry, giving detailed reasons for the request. This will be processed giving the
Faculty opportunity to refuse special conditions, recommend additional examination time, or give further
detailed guidance. In principle, the examination must not be weighted to give an advantage to either the
candidate with reasonable adjustments or the able bodied candidate. The demands on both must be equal.
Reasonable adjustments will be generally granted for certain specific sections of the examination, and
candidates should indicate which of the sections might be affected. Candidates should attempt all movements
and throughout, must dance to the best of their own physical ability. In the interests of safety and to facilitate
accuracy of movement, some candidates may indicate their own tempo and may take extra pauses for breath
as necessary. If required, questions may be asked, and these will be phrased in such a way as to clarify the
knowledge of the mechanics of the movement. Questioning is not permitted for every section of the
examination and would normally be used in a maximum of two performance sections.
The ISTD reserves the right to refuse entry to a particular candidate because of a reasonable belief that
undertaking the examination will create a risk to the health or safety of the candidate. This includes any
pregnant candidate taking a practical examination. The examiner also has the right to stop an examination if
s/he considers that there is a risk to the health or safety of the candidate if they continue.
Pregnant candidates are requested to complete the Application for Reasonable Adjustments form so that the
examiner can be made aware of their condition, regardless of any adjustment being requested, as the
examiner needs to be informed, and additional time for breaks may also be applied for.

RESULTS AND CERTIFICATION

All ISTD examinations are single performance at one moment in time, with a detailed marking system awarded
according to the assessment criteria and attainment descriptors given for each examination.
Examiners return the results and report sheets as soon as possible after the examination. The report sheets for
each candidate are individually checked within the Quality Assurance department for administrative accuracy.
Under normal circumstances the report sheets for UK examinations will be issued to the teacher within 21
working days of the examination. Any errors found are corrected by the examiner prior to further processing
of the whole examination session, and may therefore extend these timings, although the department will
make every effort to process these as rapidly as possible.
All results are entered by Sections, and checked for achieving the minimum pass levels, per Section and in
total, and correct levels of attainment against the total mark achieved.
Results are then cleared for certificate issue, which is undertaken by the Customer Services and Quality
Assurance department, and should be within 6 to 8 weeks of the examination. Copies of all report sheets and
results are held on archive for reference as necessary.

RE-TAKES
Candidates who are not successful may not re-take the examination until 3 months after the original
examination.

91

OFQUAL QUALIFICATION ACCREDITATION NUMBERS

501/0755/0 ISTD Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Dance: Grade 1 (Cecchetti Classical Ballet)
501/0753/7 ISTD Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Dance: Grade 2 (Cecchetti Classical Ballet)
501/0754/9 ISTD Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Dance: Grade 3 (Cecchetti Classical Ballet)
501/0756/2 ISTD Level 2 Award in Graded Examination in Dance: Grade 4 (Cecchetti Classical Ballet)
501/0757/4 ISTD Level 2 Award in Graded Examination in Dance: Grade 5 (Cecchetti Classical Ballet)
501/0758/6 ISTD Level 3 Certificate in Graded Examination in Dance: Grade 6 (Cecchetti Classical Ballet)
501/0764/1 ISTD Level 2 Certificate in Vocational Graded Examination in Dance: Intermediate Foundation
(Cecchetti Classical Ballet)
501/0728/8 ISTD Level 3 Certificate in Vocational Graded Examination in Dance: Intermediate (Cecchetti
Classical Ballet)
501/0760/4 ISTD Level 4 Certificate in Vocational Graded Examination in Dance: Advanced 1 (Cecchetti
Classical Ballet)
501/0761/6 ISTD Level 4 Diploma in Vocational Graded Examination in Dance: Advanced 2 (Cecchetti Classical
Ballet)
501/1002/0 ISTD Level 3 Diploma in Dance Instruction (Cecchetti Classical Ballet)
501/0750/1 ISTD Level 4 Diploma in Dance Education (Cecchetti Classical Ballet)
600/4269/2 ISTD Level 6 Diploma in Dance Pedagogy (Cecchetti Classical Ballet)

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