“Universities, like many employers, value a rounded education. If, for example, a budding young scientist has met their course’s requirements by taking biology and maths A-levels, why shouldn’t they vary their experience with a language or arts subject?”
Tim Bradshaw, Chief Executive, Russell Group
A Level Drama and Theatre follows on from GCSE as we use the same exam board for both: OCR. At A Level, students get the chance to create their own devised project based on theatre practitioners and stimulus material which allows them freedom to experiment with different styles and genres and to follow their own interests in these areas. We also study several play scripts in depth, looking at the playwrights’ craft and how they can be brought to life on stage in different interpretations. Students will look at theatre from all perspectives across the course: deviser, performer, designer, and director. The course is well rounded and suits the interests of all. Of course, there is controlled assessment and written exams, but there is still assessment on the practical side of Drama through performance, and most of our lesson time will be spent working practically on the units.
As part of the course you will be required to attend theatre trips which are essential to the course content. When available we also take part in extra workshops from theatre companies.
Drama suits combinations of many subjects including English Literature, History and Psychology. Every year there is a School Musical in which A level students can take a key role. This is not essential but helps with performance skills and working as part of a large cast if you choose to be involved.
“The arts teach us how to express ourselves – and give us freedom to fail”
Daisy Buchanan
The OCR website has everything you could ever ask for:
See the OCR website for topic exploration packs – these may be used in your lessons
Available on the OCR website