* From 2023, we will be offering A-level Dance and GCSE dance qualifications due to the change in funding to performing arts subjects as part of the T-levels introduction. More information to follow here regarding the exam board providers.
GCSE Dance - KS4
Course Code:
GCSE Dance 8326
Specification:
GCSE Dance
This course studies dance in both a practical and theoretical way encouraging students to become more critical and creative in their approach to dance. GCSE Dance focuses on three components - performance, choreography and dance appreciation. The course is mainly in the style of contemporary, though other styles can be used for student's own choreography. Across the course, students will learn how to perform with tenchinal accuracy and how to choreograph work in response to an initial idea or stimulus. For dance appreciation, we study 6 set works that address different themes and topics. Students learn how to pick dances apart in order to gain an analytical understanding of these.
We recommend that students take Dance lessons outside of school.. This will support students to keep with the demands of practical work. We also run an extra-curricular dance program which students are highly encouraged to engage with. It is expected that students will perform in lesson to peers and at times to a public audience.
Assessment:
Performance: Two set phrases and one duet / trio performance (30%)
Two of the AQA set phrases must be performed as a solo with technical accuracy and showing an understanding of performance, physical and technical skills. These are taught by the teacher and must be as close to the original sequences as possible. Another two set phrases will be used as part of the duets or trios which will be choreographed in collaboration between the teacher and the students.
Choreography: Student choreography in response to a set stimulus (30%)
Choreography requires students to respond to a set stimulus and create a piece which reflects all of their learning over the two years.
Dance Appreciation: 1hr 30mins written paper (40%)
Written exam which takes place at the end of the course. Draws on the dance anthology, an understanding of choreography and other dance practices. 1 lesson per week will focus on the necessary learning for this written exam.
Student work will be performed in our annual dance showcase. Where possible, students will be taken to see live dance work to help to develop their critical analysis skills.
Students who have studied at ESA have gone on to study at Urdang, Bird College, Performers, Italia Conti, Stella Mann College of Performing Arts and Laban.
RSL Dance - KS5
Course Code:
RSL Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma for Creative and Performing Arts: Dance
QAN - 601/7682/9
The Level 3 Diploma and Extended Diploma in Performing Arts Dance equipts learners with with the skills, knowledge and understanding for entry to emloyment in the Dance and Performing Arts industry or progression into further study at a higher level. The qualification offers practical structured learning with the flexibility to specialise in different disciplines directly relevant to employment within the performing arts and Dance industry. All learners take an extrernally assessed unit which requires them to work to a brief, set by industry practitioners within Dance.
Assessment:
You will study 6 units within the course. These will be as follows:
304E Performance Preparation
Students will work towards creating a performance in a group in response to a brief set by the exam board. This unit is a mixture of practical and theory. Theory elements can be completed as video blogs, podcasts, voice notes or written.
306 Planning for a Career in Performing Arts.
In this unit students will learn about the performing industry whilst working on their personal brand. Students will learn how to create showreel, a website and a CV.
330 Dance Tecnique and Performance.
This unit aims to develop learners skills in a selected dance style and their ability to create, understand and perform style specific techniques and sequences. They will practically understand the challenges of developing dance technique and performance.
332 Global Dance Styles.
To develop the skills in the background, culture and dance requirements of a global dance style as well as the ritual and meaning behind the style. Pupils will develop skills to take part in traditional dance which comes from a culture different from their own, whilst gaining knowledge of the culture in which it is from.
331 Ensemble Dance Performance.
Develops pupils ability to dance within a group in a selected dance style and their ability to understand, create and perform style specific techniques and sequences. Pupils will overcome challenges of performing and choreographig within a group.
324 Choreography.
Students will choreograph a full length performance as a class and perform this in the annual showcase.
Careers and Industry Connections:
Students have opportunities to see live Dance Theatre. In the past we have seen 'Medusa' by Jasmin Vardimon, Wicked the Musical, 'Young Men' by Ballet Boyz and Grand Final by Hofesh Schector. In the course its great experience for students to see live dance and understand the demands of live performance.
Throughout the course there are oppitunities for work shops with industry professionals. Students have had chances to have workshops with Camilla Bates (Mamma Mia German Tour), Wicked the Musical and Kerry Ellis (We Will Rock You, Wicked West End and Broadway, Murder Ballad).
Students who have studied at ESA have gone on to study at Urdang, Bird College, Performers, Italia Conti, Stella Mann College of Performing Arts and Laban.
