RAD FAQ

Yes. Students must take at least two weekly ballet classes. Primary and below may take only one weekly class.

All students must attend three compulsory Assessment Preparation Workshops: 26th July, 2nd August and 9th of August.  The exact times are noted below. (Discovering Repertoire students are not required to attend these workshops).

At our studios, with an external assessor visiting. This means that children do not have to deal with going to a new, unfamiliar space on exam day.

In 2026 they will be between August 10th and September 10th. The dates are set by the RAD and we will provide them to parents as soon as we get them. There is no flexibility in dates/times, and they may occur during school hours.

In short, no. We only select students for this opportunity if we feel they will enjoy it and benefit from it. We aim to ensure that the experience is a positive and
inspiring one for all students. Working towards assessments is fun, challenging and gently develops self-discipline, work ethic and a sense of pride, achievement and responsibility. Our students usually come out of their assessment beaming from ear to ear – it’s a very special day for them and a huge achievement that they can be proud of.

It’s important that all students feel happy and confident going into assessments. In order to get the best results, at least 90% attendance throughout the year is required. Assessment students are
representing our academy, and we don’t enter anyone who isn’t ready.

There is also a compulsory three-day Preparation Workshop; it is vital that students attend all three sessions. In 2026 the dates are: 26th July, 2nd August and 9th of August.

Assessment Preparation Workshop Timetable ( Sundays, the 26th July, 2nd  & 9th of August)
Location: Rain & Lucky Studios Preston or Fairfield (Studio location TBC)

Discovering Repertoire students are not required to attend these workshops.

Pre-Primary & Primary: $359
Grade 1-4: $409
Grade 5-8: $459
Discovering Repertoire: $299

This one-off payment covers: Assessment fee (paid to the Royal Academy), compulsory 3-day Preparation Workshop, hire of special uniform for assessment day. Students will also have their hair done by our staff on exam day. It’s a fun and exciting
experience!

In 2026, the due date for payments is May 18th. The fee will be charged to your R&L account on this date. You are welcome to contact us to request a different payment date. If your child decides not to sit the assessment, there is no payment required. 

No. The experience of taking two weekly classes, which includes structured assessment preparation, is hugely beneficial for children regardless of whether or not they sit the assessment. We know you will love seeing the results in your child.

Attendance at all three workshops is compulsory, as the content prepares students and builds their confidence for their Assessment Day. Also, students often work with specific partners /groups, so missing a workshop will likely affect other students. In special circumstances only (eg due to illness), if unable to attend a workshop, a private lesson will need to be booked, at your expense.

We are not able to recoup fees paid to the RAD – if you change your mind once registered, this will be at your own expense. Please note also that withdrawing once committed affects the other children in the class. We ask you to carefully consider this commitment and all the dates/times before saying yes.

Teachers will decide who is ready to undertake an Assessment, and invitations will be sent out at the end of Term 1, 2026. You will have the opportunity to accept via completing a form.