Exams & Tryouts

At Protègèm, we are committed to maintaining the highest standards of dance education, which is why we proudly follow the International Dance Teachers Association (IDTA) exam syllabus—recognized as the largest and most prestigious dance organization worldwide.

We are proud to retain our high standards. For exam details and exam day procedures, please read below. If you have recieved your next exam letter and have any queries please either phone or email before the exams.

On the dayExam Day Rules & Procedure

To ensure a smooth and professional experience on exam day, we ask that all students follow the guidelines below. This helps maintain the high standards we set for both our students and the exam process.

  1. Hair

    1. Hair should be securely fastened away from the face. For most exams, a neat bun or plait is recommended, using either a purple or black band/scrunchie.

    2. For Ballet exams, hair must be styled in a bun at the nape of the neck, secured with pins and a net (no scrunchies). A purple or black headband should be worn to keep hair in place.

    3. Short hair should also be neatly secured off the face, using pins or clips as necessary.

  2. Clothing

    1. Arrive with your leotard and tights already on underneath your regular clothes, as this will save time on the day.

    2. Helpers will be available in the waiting room, but please try to ensure your hair and clothing are ready when you arrive to keep everything running smoothly.

  1. Exam Etiquette

    Please be patient if exams run over time, as examiners may take longer with some students, or alternatively, some exam sessions may move very quickly.

    Quiet and respectful behavior is expected in the waiting area to ensure a calm atmosphere for all students.

  2. What to Avoid

    No jewellery, nail varnish, or extreme makeup should be worn during the exam.

    Body tattoos should be covered.

For more details and answers to other common questions, please refer to our FAQs section.

We are excited to see your hard work come to fruition on exam day and wish you the best of luck!

Children dancing on stage performing ballet and street dance

Dress the partUniform

At Protègèm, we believe that perfect, clean presentation is essential in complementing the dedication and hard work that every dancer puts into mastering their technique. Wearing the correct uniform not only helps to maintain discipline and focus, but it also promotes a sense of pride and professionalism for each student.

Below, you'll find the required uniform for each dance style and exam level. We recommend The Dance Boutiques in Ewell Village for all shoes, uniform and dance accessories, ensuring that students are fully equipped with everything they need to look their best and perform with confidence.

For our own brand items (and the purple leotard with attached voile skirt) please click the link to purchase, these will be brought to your childs class.

  1. Ballet beginners
    up to Primary Grade

    1. Purple leotard with attached voile skirt
    2. Pink ballet tights Or ballet socks
    3. Pink ballet shoes with elastics
    4. Black ballet cardigan
    5. Purple head band

  2. Ballet
    (From Grade 1)

    1. Black strappy Leotard (nude bra)
    2. Pink ballet tights
    3. Pink split sole ballet Shoes with elastics, canvas preferred, or Leather
    4. Black ballet skirt (for medal exams not Grades)
    5. Black dance shorts or black tights ok for class
    6. Black hair band

  3. Tap

    1. Younger pupils - Purple leotard with attached voile skirt
    2. Older pupils - Black leotard with black leggings or tights
    3. Black socks
    4. Black tap shoes - open toe for little beginners, oxford style from Grade 1
    5. Black/purple scrunchie

  1. Street

    1. Black dnace shorts,leggings or Protègèm joggers
    2. Protègèm t shirt
    3. Black socks
    4. Black pumps or trainers

  2. Musical Theatre

    1. Black dance shorts,leggings or joggers
    2. Protègèm t shirt
    3. Black socks
    4. Black pumps or trainers

  3. Theatre Craft (Stage)

    1. Younger pupils - Purple leotard with attached voile skirt
    2. Blak Strappy Leotard
    3. Black footless tights
    4. Ballet shoes (Black character shoes 2' heel from Grade 3

  1. Protégém Youth Dance Company

    1. Purple company tshirt
    2. Company sparkly jacket
    3. Black dance shorts, leggings or joggers
    4. Black dance trainers, optional foot thongs for contemporary

Come and join us Tryouts

Are you ready to take your dance skills to the next level? Protègèm Dance Company offers talented young dancers the opportunity to be a part of something special. Our tryouts are a chance for you to show us your passion, creativity, and dedication to dance.

Tryouts for Protègèm Dance Company are held at the beginning of each term, and we encourage all interested dancers to participate. We believe that tryouts are a crucial part of our dancers’ training, and everyone attending will gain valuable experience, regardless of whether they are selected.

What to Expect at Tryouts:

  1. You’ll begin with a warm-up, ensuring you are prepared for the session ahead.

  2. You will then learn two short dance phrases: one in a street dance style, and the other in contemporary dance.

  3. The final part of the tryout will be an improvisation session, where you’ll be asked to respond to a piece of music and showcase your creativity.

Our tryouts are designed to assess more than just technical ability. We also evaluate approach, interaction with others, style, focus, imagination, and creativity. Don’t worry—you won’t be asked to dance alone, and we want you to feel supported throughout the process.

Do You Need Prior Training?

No prior dance training is necessary to try out for the company. What matters most is that you bring dedication, drive, enthusiasm, and a true love of dance and music. You must also be punctual, respectful, and ready to work as a team.

What Happens If You’re Successful?

If you are selected as a member of Protègèm Dance Company, you will join a supportive, driven group of dancers who are passionate about improving their technique and performance. Training becomes more focused, and you will be encouraged to push yourself to new heights as you collaborate with your fellow dancers to reach performance goals.

Company members will often be called upon to perform at events with little notice, so the ability to pick up routines quickly and remain dedicated to constant practice is essential. You’ll not only develop your skills but also form lasting bonds with your teammates and create amazing memories together.

What to Wear:

Please come in comfortable, suitable clothing that allows freedom of movement—something you feel confident and at ease in. Hair should be tied back, and please keep jewellery to a minimum. The tryouts will run during regular class time and last approximately 1.5 hours.

For more information or if you have any questions, feel free to reach out via our contact page. We look forward to seeing what you can bring to the Protègèm Dance Company!

Youth Dance Tryouts

Are you ready to showcase your talent and passion for dance? Protègèm Dance Company is always on the lookout for young dancers to join our team! Whether you're looking to improve your skills, gain performance experience, or be part of an exciting, supportive dance community, our tryouts offer you the opportunity to take your dancing to the next level.

How to Join the Tryouts

If you're interested in trying out for Protègèm Dance Company, simply email or phone Gemma to express your interest. Your details will be added to the tryout list, and you’ll be contacted with information about the next tryout date, which is held at the beginning of each term.

Stay Updated

For the latest news on tryouts, events, and all things Protègèm, make sure to follow us on Facebook. This is the best way to stay in the loop and never miss an important update!

We can't wait to see what you can bring to the Protègèm Dance Company. Don't miss your chance to be part of something special!

Contact us today

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FAQ's Exam Questions?

Can I bring family or friends to the exam?
We understand that you may want your loved ones to support you on exam day, but due to the busy and crowded nature of the exam sessions, we kindly request that you do not bring siblings or friends along. This helps maintain a focused and calm environment for all participants.
When will I receive my results?
Exam results typically take 2-3 weeks to be processed and returned to us. Once they arrive, we will notify you accordingly.
When will I receive my certificates and medals?
Certificates and medals will be presented at the next exam presentation event. This is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate your dancer's achievements!
Should I bring a snack for my dancer?
We recommend bringing a drink and snack for your dancer, especially if there is a bit of a wait. However, please avoid snacks that could stain, such as chocolate or drinks like Ribena, to keep uniforms and surroundings clean.
How much should my dancer be practicing at home?
The amount of practice depends on your dancer’s age and level. Generally, we suggest practicing the required routines and dances a few times a week. It’s also important to remind them to smile and enjoy the process! Regular practice helps build confidence and ensures they are well-prepared for their exam.

Join us todaySign up for classes

Protègèm offers classes from ages 2+ to adult. Students are put forward for IDTA dancing exams and have opportunities to be involved in Competitions & Performances.

Below is a list of dance classes that Protègèm currently offer: Protègèm Youth Dance Company, Junior Company, Street Dance / Commercial, Ballet, Tap, Arts Award, Boys Street / Break Dance & Adult Class.

Child preforming ballet

Join us today!

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