Performing Arts

Contacts:
Head of Performing Arts faculty	Ms A Barson
Key Stage 5 and Gifted & Talented Coordinator for Performing Arts	Ms A Barson
Head of Music and Teacher of Key Stage 4 Performing Arts	Ms S Bell

Our Curriculum Vision

Students will study a range of performance skills including acting, movement and design and will specialise in their strengths.

We aim to develop students’ in-depth understanding of the arts industry, working with professionals from all areas including performers, directors, designers, administrators, technicians etc.

Students take part in a variety of performance projects, exploring a range of styles, skills and approaches. They are assessed on their practical work in class, a range of performances, presentations and portfolios, worked on throughout the course.

The units selected for this course are dependant on the skills and interests of the group.

Key Stage 4 Curriculum and Assessment:

The department has two paths of progression available for students at Key Stage 4: BTEC First Award in Performing Arts and GCSE Drama.

BTEC First Award in Performing Arts :

Students develop a greater depth of knowledge of conventions, techniques and practitioners. This course has a vocational context and so the learning is rooted in students’ progression into the Performing Arts industries.

Unit 1: Individual Showcase (Externally Assessed)

You will learn how to write an application letter for a performing arts job and also how to prepare for an audition/presentation. You will respond to the job roles given to you by the exam board and create a suitable audition or presentation piece.

Unit 2: Preparation, Production and Performance

You will learn about the different roles and responsibilities in a performing arts company. You will take part in a performance and production role and produce a working logbook to evidence meetings, designs, rehearsal schedules etc.

Unit 3: Acting skills

This unit is about building your foundations as an actor; it is not just about performance. As well as undertaking a programme of practical classes to develop your physical and mental acting skills, you will be required to demonstrate progress throughout the unit.

Key Stage 5 Curriculum and Assessment:

The department has one path of progression available for students at Key Stage 5: Drama and Theatre Studies A Level.

Enrichment Opportunities:

The Drama Department is keen to encourage students to participate in extra-curricular activities. We are keen to target students from a diverse range of groups, particularly ones that may shine in the curriculum and are probably hesitant to put themselves forward for extracurricular work.

Production work, theatre visits, practitioner workshops and play writing form the core of our extra-curricular projects. We aim to produce two school productions a year, along with a range of one off events and clubs.

Off-site learning:

We actively encourage students to participate in local drama classes. These include Young Company at the Tricycle Theatre, CSSD Summer Schools and the Royal Court Young Playwright Group.

Trips to theatres are organised for Key Stage 4 and Key Stage 5 throughout the year, by the individual Drama teachers.