A-Level Drama and Theatre (Edexcel 9DR0)

Course Overview

This is a great choice if you have an interest in how theatre-makers create meaning for audiences. 

The course will allow for scholars to: 

  • develop and apply an informed, analytical framework for making, performing, interpreting and understanding drama and theatre
  • understand the place of relevant theoretical research in informing the processes and practices involved in creating theatre 
  • develop an understanding and appreciation of how the social, cultural and historical contexts of performance texts have influenced the development of drama and theatre
  • understand and explore the practices used in 21st-century theatre making 
  • experience a range of opportunities to create theatre, both published text-based and devised work 
  • participate as a theatre maker and as an audience member in live theatre.

The core skills being developed in this qualification are:

  • the ability to recognise and understand the interrelationship between performer, designer and director
  • the understanding that texts and extracts studied may represent a range of social, historical and cultural contexts
  • the ability to analyse and evaluate their work and the work of others
  • the ability to understand how performance texts can be interpreted and performed.

“University admissions tutors recommend drama and theatre A-level as it broadens the range of academic and life skills that you need.  I like it because it’s challenging and fun too.”

St Ivo Student

Course Code: 9DR0

Minimum Entry Requirements

  • A minimum of five GCSEs at grade 5 or above, including english and 4+ in mathematics
  • If drama studied at GCSE grade 5+
  • If student has not studied GCSE drama, an interview ascertaining their practical experience would be required

Exam Board: Edexcel

Assessment

  • 40% Written Exam
  • 40% Devising
  • 20% Performing Scripts

Choosing your post-16 options is an important decision, and St Ivo Academy Sixth Form is here to guide you. Applications are welcome from students in St Ives and beyond via the MyChoice16 platform.

Step-by-step application process

  1. Log in to your MyChoice16 account.
  2. Select ‘My Applications’. To start a new application, click ‘Start a new Application’; to continue an existing one, click ‘Continue’ next to your application.
  3. Complete all sections of your Profile Template if this is your first application. For additional applications, only ‘Course Choices’ needs to be completed.
  4. Qualifications will be uploaded by the school—this section can be skipped. Your form tutor will add a reference.
  5. Complete any remaining fields or checkboxes. Click ‘Send Application’ to submit.
  6. Your application status will update (eg. Sent, Schools Hold). The school will review your application to ensure it meets the requirements, and you may be asked to discuss it with a teacher.
  7. Monitor your application regularly and respond promptly to any notifications.
  8. All applicants will be invited to an interview before a provisional offer is made.

 

This course will prepare you well for higher education and richly equip you for a wide range of career choices. Ex-students include TV presenters, puppeteers, midwives, business owners and a previous Mayor of St Ives. Complementary subjects include English Literature, dance, or indeed any subject since drama related skills are highly sought after in every career.

Performance & Theatre

  • Actor / Performer
  • Theatre Director
  • Stage Manager / Production Assistant

Creative & Media Industries

  • Scriptwriter / Playwright
  • Film & TV Production
  • Drama Therapist
  • Set, Costume, or Lighting Designer

Education & Communication

  • Drama Teacher / Lecturer
  • Arts Administrator
  • Community Arts Worker

Other Related Careers

  • Event Management
  • Public Speaking / Communication Roles
  • Media & Broadcasting

Jamie Smith – Jamie.Smith@astreastivo.org 

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