Drama and Theatre A level

Qualification: GCE A Level in Drama and Theatre
Exam Board & Specification Code: From September 2023 WJEC; Specification. From September 2024: Pearson Edexcel; Specification
Course Entry Requirements: 5 in English Literature GCSE
Please make sure that you have understood the overall entry requirements to study at BHASVIC. These are available here and outline the GCSE grades you need to take up one of the Study Programmes at the college.
Length and size of qualification: 2 year single course
Timetable hours: 4.5 hours per week + rehearsal time
Assessment method: A combination of written and practical exams
Course charges: There is an annual charge of £75 to assist with costs of attending performances and participating in workshops throughout the 2 years of this course. Bursaries and payment plans are available, please read Our Support Service for further information. Students starting September 2024 and after will pay £50 per year.
BHASVIC Department: Performing Arts
Head of Department:  Ryan Stagg

What will I study?

The A Level Drama and Theatre course requires students to take a practical and academic exploration of Theatre. Students are expected to take part in practical projects and apply practitioner ideas as well as create creative logs and write academically reasoned essays on current theatre practice. There are three components to the course. In Components One and Two you will rehearse and explore text and perform pieces, both script based and devised, to an external examiner and audience. These pieces are supported by written work which outlines your processes of investigation. For Component Three you will undertake a written exam which will focus on three different plays which you will have studied over the two years of the course, looking at staging the plays from the point of view of a director and actor and designer. 

Is this course right for me?

If you enjoy watching theatre, are happy to perform and are willing to try out ideas in a workshop environment then you will enjoy the course. The ability to work as part of a team is essential. There are many opportunities to practically apply your skills as a performer.  More challenging areas would include essay writing and the application of theory to practice. Assessment is 40% practical and 60% written. This subject would suit students who are interested in studying any humanities subjects such as English Literature and Language as well as History and Classics. Additionally it sits well alongside social sciences such as Psychology and Sociology.

Where next?

The study of Drama and Theatre at A level can help students with a variety of skills as well as develop their creative career aspirations.  Students who study this course will enhance their skills in creative thinking, teamwork, analysis, presentation skills, planning etc.  The course support students wishing to improve their communication skills in both verbal and written forms. Students can progress from this course in to a number of career areas either by further study or by direct entry to the job market. The skills you gain while studying a performing arts degree are valued by all types of employers, for example confidence, self-presentation, teamwork and collaboration, ability to experiment with different ideas and learning from feedback. Examples of related roles that students may pursue could include Actor, Stage Manager, Arts Administrator, Dramatherapist and Television Production Assistant. Useful websites to research careers and wider progression options could include Creative Skill Set, All About Careers and The Apprenticeship Guide and Equity (career factsheets).

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