The GCSE Dance course provides you with an opportunity to develop your dance technique, performance skills, choreographic skills and your understanding and appreciation of dance by viewing and discussing professional dance pieces both live and on film. Studying Dance develops your creative, imaginative, physical, emotional and intellectual abilities.

AQA Controlled Assessment

• 30% Performance(2x 1 minute solos, 3-5 minute duet/trio)
• 30% Choreography ( 3 1/2 minute group dance)

External Examination

• 40% Appreciation(1 1/2 hour written exam)

Please refer to our Sixth Form prospectus for entry requirements.

The GCSE Dance course provides you with the opportunity to explore many styles of dance, although the focus is on contemporary, working with music, physical expression, technique, fitness and creativity. You will perform two 1-minute set solos, a 3-5 minute duet/trio, learn about the process of creating dance work, choreograph a 3.5 minute group piece and study six set works within an anthology including ‘Shadows’ by Christopher Bruce, ‘Emancipation of Expressionism’ by Kenrick ‘H2O’ Sandy and ‘Linha Curva’ by Itzak Galili.  You will also answer examination questions based upon your own practice in performance and choreography, including safe working practice.    

GCSE Dance will help to keep you physically fit. Students typically go on to study A level Dance and/or Theatre Studies, an Applied A level/BTEC Level 3 in Performing Arts or take a sports based qualification.  Additionally, there are many alternative, specialist providers of Dance training and education for students who wish to focus their studies in this manner and we have had a number of students follow this pathway into well renowned dance conservatoires and vocational colleges. The careers this subject could lead you to is :

• Actor/Musical Theatre Performer
• Arts Administrator
• Choreographer
• Community Arts Worker
• Dancer
• Dance Movement
• Psychotherapist
• Event Manager
• Festival Organiser
• Higher Education Lecturer
• Personal Trainer
• Secondary School Teacher
• Talent Agent
• Theatre Director

 

From A Student's Perspective GCSE Dance includes creative work and learning set dances. It has helped me develop my choreographic skills, flexibility, balance and a range of techniques. You have to be prepared to practice in your own time so you can reach your full potential. Choreographic work involves developing motifs and using different resources as stimulus. For the theory and written work you have to focus on a professional piece of work and learn all the technical and health and safety points involved in Dance. The teachers hold revision lessons and are available for any extra help.’    -  Year 11 Student