This is a two-year vocational course, equivalent to one A Level, for students interested in acting and performance. The course combines both practical and theoretical approaches to drama and students will explore a range of plays, acting styles and techniques through workshops and performances. You will see professional theatre productions and attend workshops run by professional artists. The course is designed to equip students with the necessary skills to continue on to higher education.
A minimum of five GCSEs at grade 4 or above including English.
There will also be an audition.
Students have auditioned for Frantic Assembly and the Birmingham Repertory Theatre in the past.
Activities vary from year to year but generally involve trips out to the theatre or to workshops plus in-house visits from professional or experienced artistes. Students are advised of local auditions and any chances to perform and supported in their applications to them. Last year’s students toured local schools with their devised children’s theatre piece which was rapturously received.
Course Components
The course consists of six modules.
Two Mandatory:
Performing to an Audience and Principles of Acting
Four other modules generally chosen from: Variety Performance, Auditions for Actors, Theatre for Children, Contemporary Theatre Performance, Classical Theatre Performance, Musical Theatre Performance.
Assessment
All units are internally assessed and externally verified. Most of the units involve an element of performance combined with research and reflection demonstrated through an actor’s log-book and/or evaluative essay.
Coursework
The course is constructed around six assignments which include the assessment and grading criteria of the specification. The evidence for these can be offered in a variety of divergent forms including class presentations, closed or public performances, written or recorded reports, performance observations and time-constrained assessments.
Examination
This course has no externally set exam.
Exam Board
Edexcel and Pearson
