Introduction to Examinations
The IDTA has developed a range of examinations suitable for all ages and levels of experience and achievement.
Individuals, who gain a professional dance teaching qualification with the IDTA and are accepted into membership of the Association, may enter their pupils for IDTA examinations at amateur, performer and professional levels.
Professional teaching examinations are available in eight core subjects, divided into three branches. Firstly, the Ballroom Branch which includes: Ballroom, Latin and Classical Sequence, secondly, the Freestyle Branch and finally, the four core subjects of Ballet, Tap, Modern Jazz and Theatre Craft are classified as Theatre Branch subjects.
The IDTA also offers teaching examinations in the non-core subjects of Line Dancing, Cheerleading, Street Dance, Rock ‘n’ Roll, Salsa, Belly Dancing, Argentine Tango, Dance Exercise and Gymnastic Dance (note: restrictions apply).
There are three levels of teaching qualification; the first being Associate level (or from April 2016 the IDTA Level 4 Diploma in Dance Teaching), progressing to Licentiate and finally Fellowship. Access to the examination service is available only to members and is restricted to the branch(es) in which they hold professional teaching qualifications.
The Association offers a wide variety of tests and awards for amateur / social dancers including Rosettes, Stardance Awards, Pre-juvenile Groups Awards, Preparatory and Primary Grades; plus a wide range of medal tests in many genres, from one dance through Bronze, Silver and Gold medals and advancing through the Bars, Stars and President’s Awards to the International Supreme Award. For the medal tests and higher awards, the dances are choreographed by the teacher and build in length and complexity. The Association also offers social dance awards, and team awards.