Ballet Techniques, Methods & Exams

Ballet may look similar from the outside, but behind the scenes there are a few major ways it’s taught. These are usually called methods (or syllabi). They all teach the same foundations—pliés, tendus, jumps, turns—but they may differ in:

how quickly technique progresses
which details are emphasised (alignment, musicality, style)
whether there’s a formal exam pathway

If you’re choosing a school or returning as an adult, understanding the basics can help you find the right fit.

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What is a “ballet method”?

A ballet method is a structured approach to teaching ballet technique over time. In day-to-day terms, it affects:

the type of exercises you’ll do in class
what your teacher focuses on most
how a student moves from beginner to more advanced work
whether students can take graded exams

It’s very common for dancers to experience more than one method over the years—especially through workshops, intensives, or different teachers.

The main exam pathways you’ll see in Ireland

In Ireland, the most common exam-focused systems you’ll hear about are RAD and ISTD. That said, not every school enters students for exams. Many schools teach a syllabus-style class without formal assessments—especially for adult ballet.

If you’re new, these guides pair well with this page:

Major Ballet Methods

Royal Academy of Dance (RAD)

Best known for: a clear, steady progression and a widely recognised exam structure.

RAD is one of the most common syllabi taught internationally and is widely used in Ireland. Many schools enter students for RAD exams, while others use RAD training without exams.

RAD often suits:

students who like structure and clear goals
families who want recognised milestones
adults who enjoy a syllabus-based approach (with or without exams)

Do RAD exams exist? Yes—where schools choose to offer them.

ISTD Cecchetti Classical Ballet (Cecchetti Method)

Best known for: detailed, methodical training with an emphasis on clean classical technique and coordination.

Cecchetti often suits:

students who enjoy precision and clear expectations
dancers who like a “step-by-step build” of technique

Do Cecchetti exams exist? Yes. ISTD offers graded and vocational routes depending on the school.

ISTD Imperial Classical Ballet

Best known for: a studio-friendly classical syllabus with structured progression and assessment options.

Imperial often suits:

students who like a traditional classical style
dancers who want a structured programme with assessment options

Do Imperial exams exist? Yes.

Vaganova Method (Russian school)

Best known for: strong classical line, whole-body coordination, and a rigorous progression toward advanced technique.

Do Vaganova exams exist? Not usually through one single global exam board in the way RAD and ISTD are.

French School (French classical tradition)

Best known for: refinement, clarity, elegance, and an academic classical look.

Do French School exams exist? Not typically as a mainstream international exam pathway.

Balanchine Technique (American neoclassical)

Best known for: speed, musicality, athletic attack, and a bold use of space.

Do Balanchine exams exist? Not usually as a mainstream graded exam system.

Bournonville Method (Danish tradition)

Best known for: buoyant jumps (ballon), quick footwork, and an expressive, understated style.

Do Bournonville exams exist? Not commonly as a global exam pathway.

ABT® National Training Curriculum (ABT NTC)

Best known for: level-based training with student examinations, taught by certified teachers.

Do ABT exams exist? Yes, where offered.

Do you need ballet exams?

No. Many dancers never take exams and still progress brilliantly.

Exams can be helpful if you want:

a clear goal to work toward
feedback from an external examiner
a structured sense of “what level am I at?”

But exams are optional—and most adult classes don’t use them at all.

How to choose the right method

When you’re comparing schools in Ireland, the method matters—but the teacher and class environment matter more. A good fit usually comes down to:

Your goal — fitness and enjoyment, or structured progression toward exams?
Teaching quality — experienced, encouraging teachers make the biggest difference
Class culture — does the studio feel welcoming to someone like you?
Exam options — do you want them? Not every school offers them

If you’re unsure, try a class first. Most schools welcome drop-ins or offer taster sessions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which exam system is most common in Ireland?

Many schools use international frameworks like RAD and ISTD because they offer clear progression and recognised assessment options.

Are exams only for children?

Not at all. Most adult classes don’t use exams, but some adults choose to take them as a personal challenge—and most exam boards offer adult routes.

Is one method “better” than another?

There’s no single “best”. Different methods emphasise different strengths, and excellent teaching exists across multiple systems. The quality of the teacher matters far more than the name of the method.

Can you switch methods?

Yes. Many dancers train in more than one system over the course of their dancing life, which can actually broaden their technique and movement vocabulary.

How ballet exams work — what to expect

Before the exam

Preparation happens in class over several weeks.
Students are entered only when the teacher considers them ready.
You’ll be told what to wear and how hair should be done.

On the day

Usually held at your school or a local venue.
You’ll perform solo, in pairs, or in small groups depending on level.
The examiner assesses technique, musicality, presentation, and control.

After the exam

Results are sent to the school after the exam period.
You receive written feedback and a certificate if applicable.

Good to know: Exams are always optional. A student who doesn’t take exams can still make excellent progress.

Next steps on Ballet.ie

Glossary

Adagio — Slow, controlled movements that build balance, strength, and smooth transitions.

Allegro — Faster steps, usually including jumps and travelling combinations.

Alignment — How the body is stacked for safe, efficient movement.

Barre — The rail used for warm-up and foundational exercises at the start of class.

Centre work — Exercises done away from the barre, without support.

Character dance — Stylised folk-inspired dance often included in some syllabi.

Coordination — How arms, head, torso, and legs work together.

Épaulement — Use of the shoulders and head with the upper body to create style and expression.

Graded exams — Level-by-level assessments covering technique, musicality, and presentation.

Method / Syllabus — A structured teaching system used to progress students through each level.

Musicality — Movement that matches rhythm, phrasing, and dynamics.

Pointe / Pointe work — Dancing on the tips of the toes in specialist pointe shoes.

Port de bras — The carriage and movement of the arms.

Turnout — External rotation of the legs from the hips; a fundamental principle of ballet technique.

Vocational levels — More demanding exam grades aimed at students pursuing serious training.