Examinations
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We are proud to offer multi-genre Examinations, recognised by Ofqual and Qualification Wales. Our syllabi and Examinations offer a broad education in dance that is accessible to all children, young people, and adults.
Students have different reasons for learning to dance so we have created different pathways for Graded Examinations and Vocational training, and dance for pleasure, so that students can be rewarded for their achievement and dedication.
Regardless of the route they take, all students are awarded for their Examination achievements through a certificate and, where relevant, a mark breakdown and badge. Our Examinations are available to everyone; all dancers have the opportunity to succeed with our qualifications and Registered Teachers.
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Examination results indicate the standard achieved by students within a nationally recognised and BBO framework. They are structured in a progressive way which helps teachers to monitor the development of individual students, including measures of achievement of technical, musical and performance skills from beginner to professional level.
Our Examinations are open to all; they are a fantastic way for students to develop confidence, artistry, musicality and to realise their potential. Taking Examinations of any level shows potential employers that students are creative, goal-oriented, willing to learn and are committed to achieving difficult tasks. Higher level Examinations even carry UCAS Tariff points, which can be used when applying for university.
Many students love to be challenged and take great pride in Examination success.
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Graded Exams
Our Graded and Vocational Examinations follow a traditional system of dance training; they are aligned with a Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) and regulated by Ofqual and Qualification Wales.
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For information on dance genres for Graded Examinations, please refer to our Levels and Specifications.
Graded/Vocational Graded | Level |
|---|---|
Grade 1 | 1 |
Grade 2 | 1 |
Grade 3 | 1 |
Grade 4 | 2 |
Grade 5 | 2 |
Grades 6-8 | 3 |
Intermediate Foundation | 2 |
Intermediate | 3 |
Advanced 1 | 4 |
Advanced 2 | 4 |
Levels and Specifications
Our Specifications below support BBO Registered Teachers in their understanding of the content, requirements and assessment modes for each Examination. They are designed to be used for the planning of qualification delivery and preparation for Examinations. Each specification provides the aims, objectives, and assessment criteria for all BBO regulated qualifications, along with the benefits for learners, recommended Total Qualification Time (TQT), and Guided Learning Hours (GLH).
Please download a copy of our Specifications for use in your planning, delivery and Examination preparation:
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Qualifications regulated by Ofqual and Qualification Wales:
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Level 2 Specification (Grade 4, 5, Intermediate Foundation)
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Level 3 Specification (Grade 6, 7, 8, Intermediate)
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Level 4 Specification (Advanced 1 and Advanced 2)
The qualifications detailed in the Specifications can be completed in a variety of dance genres. We have created syllabi in Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Modern, Musical Theatre, Contemporary and AcroDancer to offer students the opportunity to complete Examinations in the dance styles they enjoy. Our syllabi provide a comprehensive structure designed to encourage the enjoyment and learning of dance for students of all ages and abilities, recognising their progress and achievement.
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Qualifications regulated by BBO:
UCAS Tariff Points
All bbodance Level 3 Graded and Vocational Graded Examinations carry UCAS points. Level 3 Graded Examinations in Performing Arts carries UCAS points. When applying to universities, conservatoires or vocational colleges it’s important to include your Graded Examination results as they are a clear indicator of your achievement.
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Whether you want to go into engineering or dance, Graded Examination achievement shows your ability to study a subject at a high level; determination, dedication and resilience are qualities you need for any profession!
If you took a Grade 6, 7 or 8 Graded Examination and/or Intermediate Vocational Graded Examinations from 1st September 2010 (when the qualification was transferred to the Qualifications and Credit Framework), your achievement carries the following UCAS Points. The number of points you can get depends on how well you did in your Examination (i.e. Distinction, Merit or Pass).
Category | Grade 6 | Grade 7 | Grade 8 | Intermediate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Pass | 8 | 12 | 16 | 8 |
Merit | 10 | 14 | 18 | 14 |
Distinction/Distinction* | 12 | 16 | 20 | 20 |
Why Take Dance Examinations?
Examination results indicate the standard achieved by students within a nationally recognised and BBO framework. They are structured in a progressive way which helps teachers to monitor the development of individual students, including measures of achievement of technical, musical and performance skills from beginner to professional level.
Our Examinations are open to all; they are a fantastic way for students to develop confidence, artistry, musicality and to realise their potential. Taking Examinations of any level shows potential employers that students are creative, goal-oriented, willing to learn and are committed to achieving difficult tasks. Higher level Examinations even carry UCAS Tariff points, which can be used when applying for university.
Many students love to be challenged and take great pride in Examination success.
Our New
Sustainable Uniform
We are proud to share our stylish and sustainable new uniform, created in partnership with Dansez.