Dance

 Who should take the course?

Before opting for A Level Dance, students should have met the entrance criteria in GCSE Dance or be able to demonstrate a strong level of performance, choreography, and analytical ability through an audition or portfolio of evidence. Students should possess technical and expressive dance skills, alongside an ability to work independently, think critically, and reflect on their own practice.

What will I learn?

In Year 12, students will explore performance, choreography, and critical engagement with dance works. You will develop your technical, physical, and expressive skills through practical classes and workshops, as well as begin choreographing your own material. Alongside this, you will study professional dance works, developing an understanding of the historical and cultural context of dance.

In Year 13, you will refine and extend your skills through the creation of a solo performance linked to a set practitioner and a group choreography. You will also prepare for the written examination, where you will analyse professional dance works and contextualise your own practice.

How is it assessed?

Component 1: Performance and Choreography (50%)

●  Solo Performance: Based on the style of a chosen practitioner.

●  Performance in a Quartet: Demonstrating physical and interpretative skills.

●  Choreography: A complete dance piece in response to a set stimulus.

Component 2: Critical Engagement (50%)

●  Written Exam (2.5 hours):

○  Section A: Short answer and essay questions on a compulsory set work and its area of study (Rambert Dance Company 1966–2002).

○  Section B: Essay questions on a second area of study (e.g. American Jazz Dance 1940–1975 or Independent Contemporary Dance Scene 2000–present).

Where will it take me?

On completion of your A Level Dance course, you might progress to further or higher education. These may include:

· A degree in Dance, Performing Arts, or Choreography

· A foundation or diploma course in Dance or Musical Theatre

· A career in teaching, performance, choreography, or arts management

This qualification also complements other subjects by developing your creative problem-solving, critical analysis, teamwork, and communication skills — all of which are highly valued in a wide range of careers.