ACF Skills Programme

Important Calisthenics Skills Update     Calisthenics_Skills_Update_July_2011.pdf

TECHNICAL EXAMINATION SYSTEM

The Australian Calisthenic Federation (ACF) Calisthenic Skills Programme is a National Examination Programme administered by each State/Territory Association. In Victoria, this is Calisthenics Victoria Inc. (CVI). The National Examiners Advisory Board (EAB) is responsible for setting and changing guidelines in respect of the exam syllabi, Examiners and administration. The program provides an opportunity for participants to personally achieve and improve standards in all areas of calisthenics.

The examination system was first introduced in 1979 to raise the standard of calisthenics and to unify terminology and technique throughout Australia. Gradually, to standardise competency throughout Australia, various levels have become prerequisites for Solo and Graceful Competitions and Coaches Accreditation.  

 TESTS 1, 2 & 3
The three Tests are designed to introduce younger students to the procedure of examinations, to emphasise the importance of developing correct technique and to encourage confidence. In Tests 1, 2 and 3 participants must achieve a pass (or higher) to receive a certificate and cloth badge.

GRADES 1, 2, 3 & 4
By progressing steadily through the Grades the student builds a comprehensive vocabulary of terminology and a firm understanding of the requirements of basic calisthenics. It also allows the student to develop at their own pace and within their capabilities. Throughout the Grades, combinations of movements are introduced to reinforce the terminology learnt. Exercises have been choreographed to develop co-ordination, artistry and musicality.

PREPARATORY GRADE 3
This Grade was introduced as a ‘stepping stone’ to the higher levels. Depending on the background of their previous learning, a student may find benefit working with this level together with Grade 3 in preparation for the higher levels. In the dance section there is an introduction to jazz technique whereas in Grade 3 the dance is of classical style.
Grades 1 and 2, Grade Prep 3, Grades 3 and 4 candidates must gain 60% in each section to pass. For this they receive a certificate and cloth badge.

STANDARD GRADES 1, 2, 3 & 4
In the Standard Grades 1, 2, 3 and 4 participants require a 60% overall pass rate to be awarded their certificate and cloth badge. These grades are for candidates who are not focusing on the elements of classical dance as part of their team curriculum, and makes allowances for those who are slightly restricted in natural flexibility by offering optional versions of several movements.
(Standard Grades 1 & 2 are not on the video/DVD, however they are based on Grades 1 & 2 and the music is the same as Grades 1 & 2.)
Standard Grades do not qualify for solo entry, Cadet Coaching or Level 1 requirements.

MEDALS
The Medals have been created with the more mature student in mind and, whilst they draw on the technique established in the Grades, they are designed to develop performing skills, quality of movement, musicality and a sense of floor pattern and space. Advanced movements in all facets of calisthenics must be mastered to a high standard. In Medal exams candidates must gain 60% for each individual movement to earn a medal and certificate. The Honours Bar is the most prestigious award. Medals and Honours Bars are presented at the CVI State Championships.

The test and grade exams are based on a written syllabus and music, with emphasis on technical detail, presentation and knowledge of terminology. In the Medals sections, choreography and performance are also considered. All candidates need copies of the syllabus and music, and the opportunity to view the relevant DVD as a guide. The syllabus also outlines the exam uniform and apparatus requirements.

Turnout and development exercises are included in the program and coaches are encouraged to use the movements and terminology in their own classes. The Technical Manual CD is available through the VCCA Office.

Any registered pupil (competitive or recreational) who has an Accredited Level One or Two Coach, registered with the State/Territory Coaches Association is eligible to enter. The coach is responsible for preparing the candidates as well as possible.

The following information is available on the CVI website – http://www.calisthenics.asn.au

• General Information, Rules and Regulations for Coaches and Candidates (Victorian edition).
  This booklet contains information on the Coaches Role, the Examination – General Disciplines and Protocol, Examination Uniforms, Entry and Exam Day Regulations – please read carefully. Club coaches, candidates and parents should know of the regulations.
• Victorian Yearly Schedule – exam periods/locations, pupil classes and entry cut-off dates.
• Entry Forms – applicable for each exam period.
• Application Forms for Pupils Preparation Classes conducted by Vic. Skills Sub-Committee.

The following information is available on the ACF website – http://www.calisthenicsaustralia.org/calisthenic-skills-resources.asp

• Syllabi hard copy and order forms for DVD/CD
• Examination Guidelines for Coaches & Candidates
• List of Aesthetic positions/dance steps
• Order Form for ACF Progressive Certificates/Stickers/Cloth Badges.

Two Skills Examination Periods are held in Victoria annually;

• May/June: Test 1-Grade 4 plus Medals (Melbourne & Geelong & other regional locations).
• November/December: Test 1-Grade 4 (Melbourne & Ballarat & other regional locations).

Skills Coaches

If you require a skills coach to help prepare candidates presenting for skills exams please contact the Skills Convenor or VCCA office.

Liz Hickey, CVI Convenor
ACF Calisthenic Skills Programme

Postal address:
Skills Registrar,
P O Box 6162,
Hawthorn West 3122

Tel: 0419 222771 (voicemail)

Email: skillsvic@bigpond.com

Recommended Ages for Skills Examinations & CVI Requirements for Solo Entry

• The Calisthenic Skills Program is designed for pupils to be examined at two yearly intervals.
• Please be aware that these are recommended ages (except Grade 4 and Medals) and coaches should assess the capabilities of their pupils to ensure that they are knowledgeable and well prepared for the Grade Examination before presenting to the Examiner.
• Please use the information below to assist you in this decision keeping in mind the ability of the candidate to focus for a ½ hour exam and the knowledge that the syllabus has been designed for age appropriateness. It is of no benefit to candidates to be entered too young for the tests, e.g. prior to commencing school, nor is it of benefit to be attempting Grade 3 before the body has developed to be able to execute the movements appropriately.

For regional Victorian solo competitions other than Geelong & Ballarat) Country competitors require: -

• 11 Years           Test 3
• 12 Years           Grade 1
• 13 & 14 Years    Grade 2
• 15 & 16 Years    Prep Grade 3
• 17 & Over         Grade 3

Please note: CVI Requirements for Solo Entry

All ages as of 31st December - all levels must be attained in the calendar year prior to competing