A Level: Drama and Theatre Studies

Why study this subject?

During the course students will explore the following aspects of theatre, theatre practitioners, plays and contrasting styles and genres. This is a vibrant, energetic, enjoyable and challenging course. The course is complimented by a programme of live theatre- London's West End, Stratford and Curve. Students can expect to analyse and research a wide range of plays. The course involves working collaboratively and creatively in practical work and performances.

Where can this subject lead? Most students go onto follow a course at Drama School or take a degree in Drama. Some students combine drama with other subjects such as English or Media to lead to a combined honours degree. This A Level can also provide transferable skills such as communication, presentation, research, analysis and evaluation. This course can provide the skills, knowledge and understanding to follow careers within the entertainment industry, stage management, Arts Administration and Theatre Manager, professional freelance performer or Set/Costume designer.

How is the course assessed? The course is assessed through 60% practical coursework and 40% external written exam.

Component One :Theatre Workshop- Students will create a re-interpretation of a well known play based on the work of a key practioner. This will include: A performance A creative log 3000 words.

Component Two : Text in Action-Students will create two performances and will be assessed by an external examiner. This will include: A devised piece based on a theatre practitioner or company, a scripted performance, a 2000 word process and evaluation report.

Component Three: Text in Performance-Students will cover three texts within the written paper. This will include: Section A- A series of questions on a text Section B- An essay question on the second complete text. Section C-A question on a specific extract from 'The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night Time', analysing and evaluating how the text can be performed.

The course is assessed through 60% practical coursework and 40% external written exam.

Five standard passes at GCSE (at least a Grade 4). This must include at least a Grade 4 in English Language and Maths at GCSE.

Students will need to gain at least a Grade 4 in the subjects they would like to study at A Level.

Literature: requires at least a Grade 5 in English (Literature or Language).

Maths: requires at least a Grade 6 in maths.

Science Subjects:

• For those students who have studied Combined Science at least two Grade 5s will be required.

• For those students who have studied Triple Science at least two Grade 5s will be required with at least a Grade 5 in the science subject/s they wish to study at A Level.

Degree courses leading on from A Level could be Drama, Theatre Studies and Acting. The course will also enhance your personal skills which are transferable into most areas of employment (confidence, ability to communicate effectively, good organisation, self discipline). The course will be invaluable preparation for those wishing to work in the Arts, integrating performance, administration and production pathways.