Drama and Theatre Studies

Why should I study this course?

Component 1: Devising (40% of qualification):

Students use an extract from one text and a practitioner as a stimulus to create a devised performance, rehearsing and refining their performance/design realisations for an assessed performance. They record and evaluate the exploration and rehearsal process of creating their devised performance, as well as the final performance.

Component 2: Text in performance (20% of qualification):

Students prepare through exploration and rehearsal and participate in, as performer or designer, both a monologue/ duologue and a group performance.

Component 3: Theatre makers in practice (40% of qualification):

Students are also audience members for a live performance. They make and refine notes on the performance. Students practically explore two set texts.  They practice responding to questions for all three sections in examination conditions.

What will I learn?

Component 1: Devising (40% of qualification): Students use an extract from one text and a practitioner as a stimulus to create a devised performance, rehearsing and refining their performance/design realisations for an assessed performance. They record and evaluate the exploration and rehearsal process of creating their devised performance, as well as the final performance.

Component 2: Text in performance (20% of qualification): Students prepare through exploration and rehearsal and participate in, as performer or designer, both a monologue/ duologue and a group performance.

Component 3: Theatre makers in practice (40% of qualification): Students are also audience members for a live performance. They make and refine notes on the performance. Students practically explore two set texts.  They practice responding to questions for all three sections in examination conditions.

How will I learn?

Teacher–led activities, individual and group work, presentations, discussions, role-play and performances.  In school performances and visits to theatres will give you a first-hand experience of the subject in action.  You will be formally assessed using practical performances, portfolio coursework and extended essay answers.

What can I do with my qualification?

Gaining a qualification in drama and theatre studies will allow you to continue to study drama at a higher level at university or a specialist training college, or to go directly into employment as a performer. 

An A level in drama and theatre studies will also enable you to access all other non-related degree courses.

What do students say?

”Drama really improved my self-esteem, made me better at performing and speaking in front of people, as well as working as part of a team. “

"Drama has shaped who I am as a person. It really increased my confidence and self-belief, as well as providing a safe environment to try whatever you wanted and not be afraid of standing out. I would recommend anyone to get involved at any level without hesitation."