Founded in 1904, the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing (ISTD) is one of the world’s leading dance examination boards, with internationally recognised qualifications across a range of dance disciplines.
At The Stoller School of Dancing, pupils who reach the required standard are given the opportunity to take ISTD graded examinations in Imperial Ballet, Tap and Modern Theatre Dance, progressing from Primary through to Grade 6 and, for those wishing to continue their training, on to the higher and major examination levels.
Examinations are not compulsory. We believe every pupil should be encouraged to progress at a pace that is right for them, and those who choose not to take examinations will continue to progress through the grades alongside their class.
We are incredibly proud of our long-standing examination success, having maintained a 100% pass rate across all ISTD examinations taken at The Stoller School of Dancing throughout the years.
Why Take an ISTD Examination?
ISTD examinations provide pupils with clear goals to work towards and a wonderful opportunity to celebrate their progress and achievements. Preparing for an examination helps develop technical ability, musicality, discipline, confidence and performance skills, whilst encouraging pupils to take pride in their training.
Each examination provides a recognised milestone in a dancer’s development, giving pupils a sense of achievement as they progress through the ISTD syllabus. For those who choose to continue their dance training beyond the school, ISTD qualifications can also provide a valuable foundation for further study and professional training.
Above all, examinations are designed to complement a pupil’s dance education and are approached in a positive and supportive environment, with each pupil encouraged to achieve their personal best.
PARENT INFORMATION
ISTD Modern & Tap Examinations 2027
Date: Saturday 13th February & Sunday 14th February 2027
Venue: Albury Village Hall
ISTD Imperial Ballet Examinations 2027
Date: Sunday 28th February 2027
Venue: Dance Studio, Goffs-Churchgate Academy
ISTD EXAMINATION SUCCESS 2026
Our students once again demonstrated exceptional dedication and commitment in their ISTD examinations this year. A total of 34 graded examinations were taken across Imperial Ballet, Tap and Modern Theatre, producing an outstanding set of results that reflects the high standards consistently achieved at The Stoller School of Dancing.
- 30 Distinctions were awarded.
- 4 Merits were achieved.
- 16 examination marks were in the 90s.
- The highest mark of 96% was awarded to both 9-year-old Gray Silvester-Stoller for his Grade 2 Tap examination and 13-year-old Tayt Silvester-Stoller for his Grade 5 Tap examination.
“The quality of teaching was excellent.”
“These teachers should be commended for the quality and standard of their work.”
“The artistic and creative choreography in both genres was outstanding.”
“Every candidate showed great commitment to their work and are obviously inspired by these teachers.”
“The teachers are both vibrant, enthused and dedicated.”
“The standard seen throughout the day was exceptionally high.”
“This is an outstanding school that promotes the very best of our work.”
“One of the best examining sessions of my 42 years of examining!”