Medals
Introduction
Medals qualifications are aimed at both social and competitive dancers. Medal-focused classes will teach the steps, routines and stylings necessary to achieve a Medal at a given level and gives a dancer a goal to work towards, as well as a confirmation of progress and accomplishment.
Participation in the examination is not obligatory; you can join a medals class without committing to an exam.
Our medals classes are currently taught by Clive, who is a fellow and examiner with the United Kingdom Alliance of Professional Teachers of Dancing, as well as a Licentiate holder with the ISTD and IDTA and competition judge. He is very experienced in coaching his students to reach a medal standard.
The levels
All medals tests are divided into two styles - Modern Ballroom and Latin American. The dances covered are as detailed on our Ballroom & Latin American page and different medals look at a different number of dances. Taking both styles at once or at the same level is not compulsory. For example, one can choose to take a Bronze medal in Latin American and an Introductory award in Modern Ballroom. Please note that there may be step restrictions and, if you choose to present your own choreography, please run your routine past Clive first to check that it is suitable for the level you wish to be examined in!
Introductory Award (equivalent to a beginner level class):
Candidates present just one dance of their choice per style.
These are typically from the following sets:
• Ballroom: Waltz or Quickstep
• Latin: Cha-cha or Jive
Bronze Medal (improvers):
Candidates present two dances of their choice per style.
These are typically the following ones:
• Ballroom: Waltz and Quickstep
• Latin: Cha-cha and Jive
Silver Medal (intermediates A):
Candidates present three dances of their choice per style.
These are typically the following ones:
• Ballroom: Waltz, Quickstep and Foxtrot
• Latin: Cha-cha, Jive and Rumba
Gold Medal (intermediates B/C):
Candidates present four dances of their choice per style.
These are typically the following ones:
• Ballroom: Waltz, Quickstep, Foxtrot and Tango
• Latin: Cha-cha, Rumba, Samba and Jive
There are no step restrictions at the Gold level. Competitive choreography is permissible. Please do speak to Clive should you wish to be presented for a Gold medal.
FAQ:
- Do I need to come with a partner?
As with all our other classes, partners are not necessary. However if you intend to take the test, it is worth considering finding a partner from others who attend the class. You can then practice together in the run-up to the test.
- When are the exams?
The exams tend to be scheduled in the Easter to summer period. Further details will be provided at the medals classes.
- How much do the tests cost?
This will vary depending on a variety of factors, including the number of tests and the level you are taking. On average, one would expect to pay between £10 - £25 per test. In general, the higher the level, the more it costs. If one chooses to be examined in both ballroom and latin styles for a particular medal, that counts as two tests.
- What do I need to wear for the test?
There is no strict uniform for the test; just wear clothes in which you are comfortable, can dance properly and look presentable. Practice wear is allowed. For those at a higher level, please bring your dance shoes.
If you're interested or have any further questions, do come to our medal classes (please check the timetable to confirm if we're running the medals classes in any given term or year) where Clive will be happy to answer any questions you may have.