SACE Stage 2 Dance exam-day guide
SACE Stage 2 Dance · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Photo identification
Bring the ID your school or the SACE supervisor has told you to present. If you are unsure which form of ID is accepted, confirm with the provider before exam day rather than assuming.
Printed or approved copy of your performance/marking schedule
Know your scheduled time, venue, and room. Keep a copy of any confirmation or timetable you were given. Exact paperwork requirements vary by school, so confirm with the provider what must be shown on the day.
Performance costume and footwear
Pack the costume, shoes, and any tights or accessories for each piece. Check them for damage and fit in advance so you are not adjusting them on the day.
Music files and backup
Bring your performance music in the format the school has requested, plus a backup copy on a separate device or USB. Confirm the accepted file format and playback method with the provider.
Warm-up and cool-down kit
Include a resistance band, towel, water bottle, and comfortable layers to keep muscles warm between pieces.
Water and a light snack
Bring water and a snack you have tested before. Avoid trying new foods or drinks on exam day.
Hair and makeup supplies
Pack pins, hair ties, and any stage makeup needed for your pieces, plus a small mirror if the dressing area is busy.
Any required written or supporting materials
If your assessment includes a programme note, choreographic statement, or other document, prepare it in advance. Confirm with the provider whether it is submitted beforehand or brought on the day.
Plan for arriving early
Arrive with enough time to sign in, change, and complete a full warm-up. Confirm the required arrival time with the provider.
Know your pieces and cues
Be able to state the order of your pieces and your entry and exit points without needing to check notes during the assessment.
Plan the day
Run each piece at or near performance intensity, then reduce volume. Focus on transitions, entries, exits, and the moments that feel least secure. Check costume, footwear, and music files. Sleep well and keep hydration and meals consistent with your normal routine.
Do a light technical run-through or marking session rather than a full-out rehearsal. Prepare and pack your bag using the checklist. Confirm your arrival time and venue. Avoid new physical activities that could cause soreness or injury. Go to bed at a normal time.
Eat a familiar meal with enough time to digest. Arrive early, sign in, and change. Begin a thorough warm-up covering the whole body, then rehearse key phrases mentally. Keep warm between pieces with layers and gentle movement.
Perform each piece as rehearsed, committing to the movement and the intent of the work. Breathe, stay present, and recover calmly from any slip rather than showing a reaction. Follow the supervisor's instructions about order, timing, and leaving the space. Cool down and rehydrate afterwards.
Rules to check
Present the identification required by your school or SACE supervisor. If you are unsure what is accepted, confirm with the provider before the day.
Follow the supervisor's directions about performance order, entry and exit, and when you may enter or leave the assessment space.
Keep all devices silenced and out of the performance area unless the provider has approved their use for music playback.
Ask about toilet and water breaks in advance. If you are unsure of the break policy, confirm with the provider rather than leaving the area unannounced.
Perform only the works you have prepared and declared. Do not substitute pieces or music on the day without prior approval.
Treat adjudicators, supervisors, and other candidates respectfully. Do not observe or discuss other candidates' assessments unless permitted.
If injury or illness affects your performance, tell the supervisor immediately. Special provisions are handled by the provider, so confirm the process with them rather than assuming an outcome.
Scoring is based on the criteria in the subject outline. Ask your teacher to clarify the criteria if anything is unclear, and do not rely on rumours about how marks are awarded.