The development of the Junior National Syllabus (Student Ballet Examinations) of the Canadian Dance Teacher’s Association has been a collaboration of representatives from the former CDTA provincial branches. Among the committee members were Barbara Dearborn (Chair), LorieGay DrewitzGallaway, Rhonda Gillrie, Ann Romeril, Aida Hughesman, Julie Dionne, and Gaëtane Hughes.

The representatives reviewed major methods of study and created a syllabus that may be used by professional teachers from a wide range of backgrounds. To this end, the terminology is eclectic and does not strictly adhere to any single method.

Individual teacher and student goals will produce varying approaches to the Junior National Syllabus. The Grade levels provide a sound buildup of technical skills. These are complemented by Enrichment levels, an integral part of the Syllabus, which develop artistry, expression and ease of movement. A Grade and its complementary Enrichment level may be approached in various ways. They may be taken simultaneously or in sequence, with the examination attempted in the same or subsequent years. For example, a motivated student in a serious program may study a Grade along with its Enrichment level, and take both exams in the same year, or they may take the Grade examination one year and the Enrichment examination the next. Students may elect to take only the Enrichment examination; however, the level of technique shown must be in line with its Grade requirement. Student may also take only the Grade examination, but must display the artistry, expression and ease of movement expected of the corresponding Enrichment level.

This syllabus is meant as an examination syllabus, and not a course of study. It is the teacher’s responsibility to ensure that the work is developed in a manner appropriate to each student’s ability and situation.

Any syllabus is only a tool in the hands of a teacher. We hope this ballet syllabus will aid in the passing down of an art form which can give joy, beauty, discipline and expression to those who pursue it, either as a professional career or for personal enrichment.