Assessment FAQ

Are assessments compulsory?

Assessments are not compulsory, but we believe that they raise the standard of our dancers and gives students a goal to work towards mid year. It is common practise in most dance schools worldwide. Assessments encourage every student to learn & polish their exercises to the best of their ability. They are a memorable experience and present an opportunity for students to learn good discipline, be critiqued and evaluated by an external & reputable dance examiner on a yearly basis.  It is managed in a very positive way, and the examiners are very friendly in the examination room  - however there are protocols that the dancers will need to adhere to. 

If you have any further queries about whether you think you or your child are ready for these assessments, please speak to your teacher or contact the Studio Manager.

Students who choose not to be examined will need to sit out the term leading up to the exam.

What happens on assessment day?

On the day of the assessment, students will meet at least 30 minutes before their scheduled exam. Each candidate will wear a number front & back & enter the Dance Wanaka studio with up to 7 other students from their class (groups are maximum of 8). Assessments are generally 30mins for Primary & Junior classes, and up to 60mins for senior classes. The examiner will then ask them to show her each of the exercises as they have learned during their classes. There are no surprises - we have mock exams so every student knows exactly what will happen.  The examiner will assess their performance and they each receive an individual report with personalised feedback and an acheivement certificate afterward.

When are assessments?

Jazz, Contemporary, Tap, Hip Hop & La Beaute Ballet assessments are normally held in June or July every year. BBOdance Graded ballet levels have their assessments in September. Dates are confirmed once entries are submited. Please note that exams are often scheduled on week days, and may require students to be taken out of school on exam day.  They run strictly to schedule, with limited interuptions & time off school.

Who is the examiner?

A reputable representative of BBOdance or Asia Pacific Dance Association is assigned to visit our studio.  They are always extremely friendly & professional. These examiners tour NZ, Australia & Asia. Each dancer receives a report sheet with personal feedback & a certificate. Feedback is always very constructive & positive.