A TIMELINE OF DANCE
Explore our rich history and milestones. Discover key moments in our journey, from our early beginnings to our latest initiatives and achievements
2024
Launch of our BRAND NEW Ballroom & Latin American Graded syllabi
2023
Launch of the BRAND NEW Original Street Styles Syllabus! With a mind-blowing total of 30 examinations, Professional qualifications plus our existing Medal Test Examinations
2023
Introduction of the Freestyle Medallist of the Year
2022
We return for our multi-genre Congress across two days in Birmingham
2021
Introduction of the Theatrical Scholarships
2020
Introduction of the North Midland Theatrical area
2019
Graded Freestyle syllabus launched.
2019
Medallist of the Year grand final held at Blackpool Tower.
2018
NATD moved to its new Head Office.
2017
NATD Gymnastic Dance syllabus recognised by Ofqual.
2016
NATD Contemporary Dance syllabus recognised by Ofqual.
2016
First Medallist of the Year competition launched in Blackpool for Ballroom & Latin American.
2015
Recognised by Ofqual as a Regulated Awarding Organisation.
2014
NATD re-instated its multi-genre Congress at Cheltenham.
2014
NATD launched its own Ballroom Technique book.
2013
Patrons introduced within the NATD.
2013
Production of DVDs for all Theatrical grades.
2011
CDET validation of vocational grades.
2006
NATD celebrated its centenary.
2000
NATD launched its annual awards with the Millennium Award.
1996
Creation of the Southern Area.
1995
Creation of the Anglian Area.
1991
Introduction of The Nina Hodgson Memorial Fund.
1989
NATD Head Office became computerised.
1988
Leisure Tap, the predecessor to Adult Fit, was introduced at the Richmond Theatrical Congress.
1986
NATD moved into its Thatcham offices.
1984
Introduction of Dance & Exercise, the predecessor of Acrobatics & subsequently Gymnastic Dance.
1982
NATD celebrated its 75th anniversary.
1978
North Eastern Area was established.
1976
NATD celebrated its Diamond Jubilee.
1968
Nornie Dwyer published a 'Handbook of Modern Dancing'.
1964
NATD and DTA held a joint conference with a view to amalgamation.
1962
Nornie Dwyer's 'The Twist' booklet sold out in 10 days.
1957
NATD re-issued the technical section of Henry Jacques' 1944 book 'Modern Ballroom Dancing' as a 'Revised Technique' for professionals.
1954
NATD issued 'Ballroom Dancing to Bronze Medal'.
1954
NATD issued 'Ballroom Dancing to Bronze Medal'.
1952
NATD incorporated as an Limited Company. The first directors were Tommy Rogers, Millicent Simmonds, Keith Jones, Frank Borrows, Alex Hooper, George Holden & Maude Wells.
1947
'Ballroom Dancing for Beginners' published by Frank Borrows.
1944
NATD initiated Student Tests in Ballroom.
1939
NATD initiated the Junior Championship at the Blackpool Dance Festival. The trophy was donated by Gwen Silvester, sister of Victor Silvester.
1938
NATD initiated the Juvenile Championship at the Blackpool Dance Festival. The trophy was donated by Bob Garganico.
1932
Alex Moore elected as the NATD President.
1932
Edgar Newton conceived the Medal Test system for the NATD.
1930
New President's chain presented to the NATD by Bessie Thrush. This chain is still used today.
1917
First female President - Mrs Gosling elected.
1916
NATD grew to 90 members.
1913
64 members attended Congress (This represented almost 100% attendance).
1912
NATD had 50 members.
1906
