ADV Origins

ADV founders created a "vision" in a new approach to examining young dancers. ADV, originally known as adap, the Australian Dance Assessment Programme, has become a unique Australian dance society and syllabus organisation. Today, the ADV syllabus is endorsed by ADV corporate partner AUSTRALIAN DANCE iNSTITUTE (ADi), a national provider of VET qualifications in dance training and dance teaching.

The ADV syllabus automatically counts towards nationally-recognised certificates delivered by Australian Dance institute. In addition, there is the possibility for both teachers and students to teach/undertake these courses via VET in Schools programs in the mainstream schooling system. ADV has fostered the creation of syllabuses (learning strategies) for classical ballet, jazz and tap, with other style/genres under development and consideration.

ADV's assessment standards and related handbooks form a unique assessment method for students and teachers. This assessment process is flexible and creative and produces an environment of learning with positive outcomes. Each student is assessed against established and educationally based criteria working towards a high standard of dance technique, skills and knowledge. As well as articulating learning outcomes and assessment criteria, the dance teacher has a written input and is present during the assessment facilitating a positive, nurturing atmosphere in the examination room. Dance teachers welcome this approach as the student progresses at her/his own rate and in keeping with their physical, emotional and cognitive development. ADV listens to teachers and encourages their input into improvements of both syllabuses and assessment processes.

This process is more than just a dance programme. It addresses the dancer as a complete person and along with the fundamentals of ballet, tap and jazz technique, young dancers are taught elements of body science, nutrition and personal awareness as well as dance history, musicality and are encouraged to improvise and choreograph. The students are assessed in a non-threatening environment, and the income generated remains in Australia and creates employment. We aim to groom, not just potential dancers, but creative individuals, choreographers, teachers, dance administrators and articulate, intelligent dance audience members. Our teachers are important too. ADV provides support through workshops and our newsletter To The Pointe.