AS/A2 AQA

Performance Studies is a new specification with an inter-disciplinary focus where candidates study drama, music and dance.  Candidates then explore different approaches through rehearsal and performance.  If you have an interest and ability in Acting, dancing and singing and would like to increase your performance skills in all three disciplines, the A level in Performance Studies could be for you.  There’s a great focus on practical work with the opportunity for learners to perform devised and existing music, drama and dance pieces. Practical performance skills are assessed internally through practical projects and coursework assignments.  This new specification is excellent preparation for learners wishing to pursue any aspect of Performing Arts at a higher level on either a degree programme or at a specialist training college.

Course Outline
4 Units - 2 for AS level and 2 for A2 level

AS Level

• Creating Performance - Candidates engage in skill-based workshops in individual art forms, creating three short pieces of performance in each. A longer fourth piece is then performed in a community venue which combines all the art forms.
• Performance Contexts 1 (written exam) - Candidates study two practitioners, from a choice including George Gershwin, John Godber and Lloyd Newson.

A2 Level

• Performance Contexts 2 (written exam) - Candidates study nine extracts, three from dance, three form drama and three from music from the topic Post-Modern approaches to the Performing Arts since 1960.
• Performance Project - (practical Candidates undertake two performance assessments; a realisation of one of the works they have studied and a student devised performance in response to a commission.

Lessons will be a mixture of drama, music and dance teacher-led sessions.  At times students will be expected to work actively in groups and at other times individually.  A number of trips and theatre performances are organised as part of the course. There is a written exam on this course which makes up 30% of the overall marks.

Preferred Entry Requirements
You should have achieved at least one GCSE pass in dance, music, drama or expressive arts and you need to have a grade B in either English Language or Literature.*

*Please note that your enrolment on to a particular course must be approved by the Head of that department.