A-LEVEL PERFORMING ARTS - EDEXCEL

Introduction: Aims of the specification

This qualification is designed to enable students to acquire a knowledge and understanding of the language of Performing Arts as well as developing their performing and self-evaluation skills. The qualification bridges the gap from GCSE to AS by focusing on the development of a wide range of practical skills and the evaluation of Drama, Dance and Music (singing).

Current Assessment Framework

AS Unit 1 – Exploring Skills for Performance

Unit 2 – Planning an Event

Unit 3 – Performing to a Commission.

In the AS year the focus is upon practically exploring and developing performance and backstage skills.

A2 Unit 4 – Employment Opportunities in the Performing Arts

Unit 5/6 – Advanced Performance/Production Practice

Unit 7 - Performing to a Commission (advanced).

At A2 students are able to research, experience and specialise in particular vocational careers.

Description of Teaching and Learning

Unit 1 - Internally assessed and externally moderated through video and written portfolio.

The exploration of performance skills and relevant practitioners, including practical workshops and presentations of student work in progress, student research and the writing of lesson diaries, self-evaluations and visits to live performance venues.

Unit 2 - Internally assessed and externally moderated through video and written portfolio.

The demonstration of planning skills in planning an event including managing the venue, creating a production team and writing and applying an action plan.

Unit 3 Externally moderated through visiting examiner

The delivery of a performance to a pre-identified audience, including devising and rehearsing, developing and using directing skills, keeping rehearsal records and writing an evaluation of the work in progress. The student may act or work backstage in the final performance.

Links to Future Careers

Students who complete this course successfully will not only have developed the analytical and creative skills to study Drama and Theatre in Higher Education, but will also possess the transferable skills of communication, confidence, co-operation and self-discipline. These skills are not only invaluable in all employment areas of the performing arts, performance and administration, but are essential skills in a wide range of occupations.

Higher Education Successes of Former Students

Successful students have gone on to study for degrees in Performing Arts, Creative and Performing Arts and Drama (single and joint honours), Theatre and Performing Arts. Two students from our first cohort are now studying Technical Theatre and Arts Administration at LIPA and 80% of A2 leavers in 2007 are now studying Performing Arts, Musical Theatre and Drama at a range of universities including Northumbria, Aberystwyth, Cumbria, De Montfort, Edge Hill, Leeds, Liverpool Hope, LIPA, Liverpool JMU, Salford and Middlesex.

Additional Information

Please see Miss Davenport (Head of Drama) or Miss Balley