Building Strong Foundations: The RAD Curriculum for Elementary and Middle Grade Dancers

By Stephanie Gronholz, Studio Co-Owner & Director, and Ann Eldore, RAD Registered Teacher & Studio Co-Owner
Combined 40+ Years of RAD Teaching Experience

One of the most frequent questions we hear from parents is: "Is my child starting too late?" Whether your 7-year-old is just discovering ballet or your 10-year-old is transferring from another studio, the Royal Academy of Dance curriculum is designed to meet dancers exactly where they are—and age is just one factor in determining readiness.

As educators who have guided hundreds of students through the RAD system, we're here to explain why this internationally recognized curriculum creates such strong, confident dancers and why it's never too late to begin the beautiful journey of dance.

Understanding the Spiral Curriculum

The Royal Academy of Dance uses what educators call a "spiral curriculum"—skills are introduced, then revisited and deepened at each level in increasingly sophisticated ways. This elegant and purposeful approach means that every concept builds on what came before.

Stephanie teaches Pre-Primary and Primary levels: "I love watching 5 and 6-year-olds discover that they can use their bodies to create beautiful shapes and tell stories through movement. At these levels, we're introducing the joy of ballet alongside fundamental concepts like port de bras and simple traveling steps."

Ann teaches Grades 1 and up: "By the time students reach Grade 1, they're ready to refine those foundational movements and add new layers of complexity. The beauty of the RAD system is that few things are ever truly 'new'—we're always building on what they’ve already learned."

Together, we teach Grade 1: This collaboration allows us to ensure seamless progression and gives students the benefit of both our perspectives as they navigate this important transitional level.

What Each Level Develops

Understanding what your child will gain at each level can help you appreciate the RAD progression:

Pre-Primary (typically ages 5-6)

• Creative movement and basic ballet positions

• Spatial awareness and following instructions

• Introduction to ballet vocabulary

• Development of coordination and balance

Primary (typically ages 6-7)

• Refined basic positions and port de bras

• Simple traveling movements and jumps

• Beginning stage presence and performance quality

• Increased attention to detail and precision

Grade 1 (typically ages 7-9)

• Introduction to Character Work

• More complex center combinations

• Development of musical awareness

• Beginning understanding of ballet as an art form

Grades 2-5 (typically ages 8-12)

• Introduction to barre work

• Progressive technical development

• Increased strength and flexibility requirements

• Artistic interpretation and expression

• Preparation for more advanced training

The Benefits of RAD Training

Whether your child is 5 or 11, beginning with proper RAD training offers distinct advantages:

Technical Excellence: The systematic progression ensures no gaps in fundamental knowledge. Students develop proper alignment, coordination, and strength gradually and safely.

Exam Opportunities: RAD exams provide clear goals and valuable feedback from internationally trained examiners. These aren't competitions—they're assessments that celebrate individual progress.

Global Recognition: RAD training is respected worldwide, providing opportunities for summer programs, advanced training, and even teaching certification in the future.

Artistic Development: Unlike some programs that focus purely on technique, RAD emphasizes performance quality and musical interpretation from the earliest levels.

Individual Growth: The spiral curriculum allows each child to progress at their optimal pace while maintaining high standards.

The Truth About "Starting Late"

Here's what we want every parent to know: there is no such thing as "too late" when it comes to quality dance training. Some of our most successful students began their RAD journey at ages that might surprise you.

Consider Misty Copeland, who didn't start ballet until age 13 and went on to become one of America's most celebrated principal dancers. Her story isn't unique—dedicated training with proper methodology can create remarkable results regardless of starting age.

What matters more than age:

• Willingness to work hard and take correction

• Physical and emotional readiness for structured learning

• Interest in the art form and desire to improve

• Ability to focus for the duration of class

How We Determine RAD Grade Placement

Parents are often confused about RAD grade levels, especially when transferring from other programs. Here's what you need to know:

RAD grades are typically one to two numbers below US school grades. A 3rd grader might be perfectly placed in RAD Primary or Grade 1, while a 6th grader might start in Grade 2 or 3. This isn't about being "behind"—it's about ensuring proper foundational development.

We balance age and readiness when suggesting placement:

Stephanie's approach with younger students: "For Pre-Primary and Primary, I'm looking at physical development, attention span, and social readiness. A mature 5-year-old might thrive in Pre-Primary, while a younger 6-year-old might need more time to develop the focus these levels require."

Ann's perspective on older beginners: "When an 8 or 9-year-old starts with us, parents sometimes worry about placing them in Grade 1 with younger children. But starting with proper foundations—regardless of age—creates stronger, more confident dancers. I'd rather see a 10-year-old excel in Grade 2 than struggle in Grade 4."

Transferring from Other Programs

If your child has been dancing elsewhere, we understand the concerns about "catching up" or "fitting in." Here's our approach:

Assessment, not judgment: We evaluate what skills your child has developed and determine the best RAD level for continued growth. Previous training is valuable—we simply ensure it aligns with RAD standards.

Patient integration: Some students need time to adjust to RAD vocabulary and methodology. We provide extra support during this transition period.

Celebrating strengths: Every program has merits. We acknowledge what your child has learned while introducing RAD-specific elements.

Clear communication: We keep parents informed about placement decisions and your child's progress as they adapt to our approach.

Why Age Diversity Benefits Everyone

One beautiful aspect of RAD classes is that age ranges can vary more than in other programs. A Grade 2 class might include students from 8 to 11 years old, and this diversity creates valuable learning opportunities:

• Older beginners bring maturity and focus that enhances the class environment

• Younger advanced students are inspired by older classmates' dedication

• Peer mentoring develops naturally as students help each other

• Individual attention increases when students support each other's learning

Our Commitment to Every Student

As teachers who have dedicated our careers to RAD education, we're committed to helping every student reach their potential—regardless of when they begin their journey.

Stephanie: "My background in education helps me understand that children develop at different rates. Some are ready for structured ballet at 5, others at 7 or 8. The RAD system allows us to meet each child where they are."

Ann: "Having taught every level of the curriculum, I know how each grade prepares students for the next. I can see the long-term picture and help students build the foundation they need for continued success."

Together, we create an environment where technical excellence and individual growth flourish side by side.

Ready to Begin or Continue the Journey?

Whether your child is just starting their dance education or ready to transfer their existing skills to the RAD system, we're here to guide you. The most important factors aren't age or previous experience—they're enthusiasm, willingness to learn, and commitment to growth.

Remember: Misty Copeland started at 13! Your child's journey can begin whenever they're ready to embrace the challenge and joy of classical ballet training.

Stephanie Gronholz brings 20+ years of teaching experience and a Master's in Education to her work with RAD Pre-Primary and Primary students. Ann Eldore is a RAD Registered Teacher with three decades of experience guiding students through Grades 1-8, as well as all of the vocational levels. As co-owners of Sandra's Studio of Dance, they provide comprehensive RAD education that builds strong foundations for lifelong learning.

Ready to explore RAD training for your child? Contact us at 509-838-7464, or email us at spokanestudioofdance@gmail.com Ready to enroll? Click the link below!