Tap

Tap is one of the most entertaining and challenging forms of dance.
It develops a great sense of rhythm and some definite fast foot work.
At our studio we teach the H.0.T F.E.E.T. Syllabus (Pullars Dance Unique Tap) which blends traditional tap with the latest styles. This is great for beginners to advanced and develops strong tap technique with expression, challenging rhythms and sounds.

Picture of Justin in a Tap Class

Taking Pullars Dance Academy Unique Technique Tap Exams.

What is PDA Unique Technique?
A dance syllabus designed by Cherie & Cherin Pullar to advance the standards of teaching in tap. Our registered teachers provide the best training in tap dancing for children and young people.

Why take exams with PDA Unique Technique?
To attain your personal best and have fun
To have a goal to work towards
To receive recognition with one of the newest and innovative tap syllabus presently available.
To be awarded qualifications that is held in high esteem by dance practitioners and competitions nation wide.

What types of exams do the Pullars Dance Academy unique technique offer?
Whatever your age or level of ability, we offer an examination programme to suit you, whether you are a beginner or an advanced student of tap. Students usually begin by following our straight and alternate graded syllabus.

JUNIOR EXAMS Grades 1 to 3
Junior Tap Exams
Age Requirement
Primary Tap
5 & 6yrs
Tap 1
7 yrs +
Tap 2
8yrs +
Alternate Tap 2
8yrs +
Tap 3
8yrs +
Alternate Tap 3
8yrs +

What will I achieve at each different stage?
Co-ordinate simple tapping rhythms and movements to produce a combination of steps
Respond attentively to music
Perform with confidence before an audience

How should I prepare for the Junior Exams?
You’ll need to do a minimum of one class a week. Extra tuition in the period leading up to the exam may also be necessary.

INTERMEDIATE EXAMS Grades 4 to 6
Intermediate Tap Exams
Age required
Tap 4
9yrs +
Alternate Tap 4
9yrs +
Tap 5
10yrs +
Alternate Tap 5
10yrs +
Tap 6
12yrs +
Alternate Tap 6
12yrs +

What will I achieve at each different stage?
Demonstrate an increased range of rhythm & movement in longer and more intricate sequences.
Show an awareness of different styles and speed of tapping to music
Perform with increased confidence before an audience

How should I prepare for the Intermediate Exams?
You should expect to take a minimum of 2 classes per week at the lowest level. Extra tuition in the period leading up to the exam may also be necessary.

ADVANCED EXAMS Grades 7 to 10
Vocational Grades
Age Requirement
Tap 7
13yrs +
Alternate Tap 7
13yrs +
Tap 8
14yrs +
Alternate Tap 8
14yrs +
Tap 9
15yrs +
Alternate Tap 9
15yrs +
Tap 10
16yrs +

These grades are for a students aged 14 yrs+ who want to study tap in greater detail with a view to pursuing a career in dance i.e.: Dance Practitioner

What will I achieve at this stage?
Demonstrate a comprehensive knowledge of dance movements
Interpret rhythms and movement at an advanced level
Perform with confidence and style
You should expect to take at 2 to classes per week in conjunction with private tuition

How do I know the exams are fair?
The examiners, Cherie and Cherin Pullar, the syllabus choreographers,
will ensure a high standard of analysis guided by strict criteria used.
A few weeks after completing an exam you’ll be given a report sighting the marks you’ve been awarded and the result obtained.
Upon passing the exams a certificate, report and crystal star will be awarded.

What if I don’t want to sit for the exams but still want to learn Unique Technique dance classes?
No problem. If you choose to learn tap with Unique Technique registered teacher without sitting for exams, you may follow the programme of assessment classes.
You won’t be examined, but will still receive a certificate to prove you’ve taken part. This is an achievement in itself.

What is the next step?
You can only be entered for a Unique Technique exam or assessment class by a registered practitioner who holds P D A registered teacher status.

Fees for exams or presentation classes must be enclosed with the entry form, see your teacher, and paid by cheque, money order or other appropriate means.