In many parts of life, the word exam can trigger a bit of anxiety. We think of quiet halls, ticking clocks, and the pressure to be perfect. But at Dance 24 Seven in Whenuapai, we view dance exams through a completely different lens.
For us, exams aren't about perfection - they are about the incredible journey of progress.
We choose to follow the internationally recognised ADPA (Asia Pacific Dance Association) and RAD (Royal Academy of Dance) syllabi because they provide our dancers with a clear, safe, and rewarding roadmap for their development.
A structured path to confidence
The reason we use a formal syllabus rather than just freestyling our lessons is to ensure every student is building a solid foundation.
Age-appropriate milestones: Both RAD and ADPA are designed by experts to match a child’s physical and cognitive development. This means they aren't being asked to do movements their bodies aren't ready for yet.
Goal setting: Having an exam on the horizon gives students a tangible goal to work toward. It teaches them how to break down a big ambition into small, manageable daily practices, a skill that serves them well in school and beyond.
The buzz of achievement
There is a specific kind of confidence that can only be earned through hard work. We often see a "lightbulb moment" in our students during exam season. When a dancer finally nails a tricky sequence they’ve been practicing for months, the look of pride on their face is worth more than any trophy.
The exam itself is simply a chance for them to step into the studio and show an independent examiner, "Look at what I can do!" It’s a celebration of their dedication, and the buzz they feel when they receive their results is a powerful motivator.
Celebrating our 2025 record-breaking results
While the personal growth of each student is our priority, we are incredibly proud of the technical excellence our dancers displayed in 2025. These results are a testament to what happens when passion meets a structured curriculum.
Last year, our Auckland dancers achieved:
Over 118 Distinctions and Honours across all genres.
7 NZAMD Scholarships for exceptional performance.
6 Students ranking Top in the World at their respective levels.
14 Students ranking in the Global Top 5.
These numbers prove that our students are mastering a craft at an international standard.
Beyond the certificate
Whether a student wants to pursue dance professionally or is simply dancing for the love of it, the exam process builds resilience. It teaches them how to handle nerves, how to stand tall with poise, and how to take pride in their individual progress.
At Dance 24 Seven, we don't expect our dancers to be perfect. We expect them to try their best, support their peers, and enjoy the reward of seeing how far they’ve come.
Are you searching for the best after-school activities in Whenuapai, Hobsonville, Westgate or "dance classes near me"? While many parents worry that dance exams cause stress, at Dance 24 Seven, we use them as a powerful tool to build confidence, discipline, and international-standard technique.
If you want your child to thrive in a structured, supportive environment, discover why our Auckland dance studio is the premier choice for local families.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the difference between RAD and ADPA syllabi?
The RAD (Royal Academy of Dance) is the global leader in Classical Ballet training, focusing on precision and technique. ADPA (Asia Pacific Dance Association) provides a modern, high-energy curriculum for Jazz, Tap, and Contemporary dance. At Dance 24 Seven Whenuapai, we use both to ensure our students receive a well-rounded, internationally recognised dance education.
Are dance exams compulsory at Dance 24 Seven?
While we highly recommend exams for the discipline and "buzz" of achievement they provide, they are not compulsory. We believe every child’s dance journey is unique. However, most of our students choose to participate because of the supportive, goal-oriented environment we create leading up to exam day.
How do dance exams help with my child’s schoolwork?
Dance exams teach "metacognition"—the ability to plan, monitor, and assess one’s own learning. By breaking down a large syllabus into small milestones, students develop the focus and time-management skills necessary for academic success in school.
When do dance exams take place in Auckland?
Most RAD and ADPA exams occur mid-to-late year. At our Whenuapai studio, we begin preparing our exam-track classes early in the year to ensure every student feels confident, prepared, and excited rather than stressed when the examiner arrives.
What were the 2025 exam results for Dance 24 Seven?
2025 was a record-breaking year for our studio! Our dancers earned over 118 Distinctions and Honours, with 6 students ranking Top in the World and 14 students in the Global Top 5. This level of technical excellence is what sets our North West Auckland studio apart.