The British Theatre Dance Association (BTDA) was founded in 1972 and has since expanded throughout the United Kingdom and in several countries abroad.

The British Theatre Dance Association is committed to maintaining the highest possible standards for its syllabuses and awards. Many of its examinations are approved by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority and are part of the National Qualifications Framework. Those that are not part of the National Qualifications Framework – because they are for younger students of because they are BTDA specific awards – are delivered to the same high standards.

A Pass at Grade 5 in BTDA's Graded Examinations is broadly comparable to a GCSE Grade C and a Pass at Grade 7 and 8 to an A Level.

There are many reasons why students choose to study for the BTDA awards in dance. Young people enjoy dance and the opportunities for personal expression and achievement that it brings.

Some will go on to make a career in teaching dance or as performers. Others will go into higher education or various occupations where the qualities of self-discipline, motivation and perseverance are valued and necessary.

Students benefit from working with others, improved self-esteem,
concentration and physical fitness.

All BTDA teachers are all required to have reached a high standard in the subjects they teach and to understand the artistic, technical and professional content of the BTDA syllabuses as well as how students lean and what makes for effective teaching.