The RAD Primary grade marks the beginning of structured ballet training, moving on from the creative and exploratory work of Pre-Primary. With this progression comes a new colour of leotard, the introduction of a character skirt for exam work, and slightly more specific requirements around footwear and presentation. Most students reach Primary between the ages of four and six.
Short answer: The RAD Primary grade marks the beginning of structured ballet training, moving on from the creative and exploratory work of Pre-Primary.
Leotard colour for RAD Primary
RAD Primary students wear a pale blue or powder blue leotard. This is a softer, lighter blue rather than royal blue or navy — sometimes described as sky blue or ice blue. The style is typically sleeveless or short-sleeved, in a plain design without sequins or heavy applique.
Leotard colours can vary between dance schools, as some studios follow their own uniform list rather than the RAD default palette. If you are unsure which shade your school uses, ask the teacher or check the school printed uniform guide before purchasing.
Does a Primary student need a character skirt?
Yes. Character work is introduced at Primary level, which means a character skirt becomes part of the exam uniform. At this grade the skirt is typically a mid-length, lightweight style — often in black or a dark colour — worn over the leotard and tights for the character dance sections of class and examination. Some schools issue skirts directly; others require parents to purchase them separately.
Tights and shoes for Primary
Pink footed tights remain the standard for Primary, in the same shade as Pre-Primary. Full sole pink ballet shoes are also typical at this level, though some teachers transition students to split sole styles from Primary onward depending on age and ability. Character shoes are introduced for the character sections of the exam — usually a low-heeled style in black leather with a T-bar or Mary Jane strap.
Check with your teacher whether character shoes are needed for weekly class or only for exams. At Primary level, many schools keep them for exam sessions only.
Hair and presentation at Primary
A neat ballet bun is expected for RAD Primary examinations. Hair should be smooth, off the face entirely, and secured at the crown or upper back of the head. A hairnet over the bun keeps it tidy through the exam. Jewellery is not permitted, and nail polish is generally discouraged. The overall impression should be clean and uniform.
RAD Primary exam uniform — summary
- Pale blue or powder blue leotard (sleeveless or short-sleeve)
- Character skirt (black, school-specified style)
- Pink footed tights
- Pink soft ballet shoes (full or split sole, teacher preference)
- Low-heeled character shoes in black (for character sections)
- Hair in a neat bun with hairnet
- No jewellery or nail polish
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Frequently Asked Questions
What changes in the uniform when a student moves from Pre-Primary to Primary?
The Primary grade typically introduces a new leotard color (often a lavender or similar school-specified shade), a character skirt for character work sections, and in some schools specific accessories such as an elastic belt.
Does the Primary grade require character shoes?
In the RAD Primary grade, most schools use soft ballet shoes for the character sections rather than character heeled shoes. Character shoes are introduced at Grade 1 or higher in some schools. Always check the school's specific requirements.
When does a child typically take their RAD Primary examination?
Most children reach Primary grade between the ages of four and seven. There is no minimum age requirement — the teacher assesses readiness based on technique, focus and ability to follow the class syllabus rather than age.