Key stage 5: A level Drama and theatre studies

Requirements

This is a demanding but interesting subject where students will gain knowledge and understanding of theatre practice through rigorous academic study, practical participation and as discerning members of an audience.

It is not necessary to have taken GCSE Drama beforehand but, clearly, any previous theatrical experience is going to be of value to prospective candidates. It is desirable for students to have achieved at least a C grade in GCSE English.

The key to success is to be equally willing to participate in and understand both the practical and theoretical sides of the course.

Further information

Click here for an outline of the course from the AQA exam board...

...and here for the Hellesdon-Taverham Sixth Form Centre's course brochure.

University Courses and Careers

Drama and Theatre Studies is a fully-fledged A Level, which is accepted at all universities. Whilst it is crucial that you know the specific A Level requirements for certain degree courses, Drama and Theatre Studies will be acceptable for most Arts, Humanities and Modern Language courses, and points gained will contribute to the total needed for any degree course, if only a points score is required.

As well as depth of knowledge about the areas of theatre and drama studied you will also gain breadth of knowledge and experience which will stand you in good stead for almost any career. The course should not be viewed solely as training to become a professional actor, director or designer (though for some it could be just that), but as a useful foundation for these and related careers -- for example, the Arts, Media and Film, Journalism, Education and other 'people' professions, such as Law Enforcement, Medicine, Social Work, Management, PR, Advertising and many more.

Employers like the fact that Drama students are:

• good team members
• reliable and organized
• able to analyse and understand people
• able to present themselves in different ways in different situations
• good at focusing their attention
• good at evaluating verbally and on paper
• able to analyse text and situations
• able to understand dress code
• able to present themselves to an audience