Thornleigh Sixth Form

This course is perfect for those who enjoy Dance and performing on stage! It is an extremely practical course where you will be expected to be confident performing in front of others and participate in many events throughout the school calendar.

This course is the equivalent of one A Level.

Over the two years, you will study three mandatory units (two externally assessed, one internally assessed) and one optional unit (internally assessed).

Entry Requirements

Ideally you will have studied Dance or Performing Arts at KS4, though this is not essential as long as you have had experience with Dance outside of school or been involved in previous productions, shows, pantomimes etc. Your passion for dance must showcase through your dedication and commitment both inside the dance lessons, on stage in front of live audiences and within your coursework submissions.

What will I Study?

Unit 1 - Investigating Practitioners: During this unit, you will study professional dance pieces created by choreographers and analyse their professional through practical performance. This will result in one written exam.

Unit 2 - Developing Skills and Techniques for Live Performance: You will learn about the various performance skills required within Dance. For this unit, you will need to research and present your findings to others, and will additionally be part of a live performance to an audience.

Unit 3 - Group Performance Workshop: For this unit, you will be given a theme to create a piece of dance from. This will be performed to an audience, alongside written milestones documenting the journey to choreographing a well-rehearsed piece of dance.

Optional Units - You will study one of the three units:

Unit 10 - Jazz Dance Technique

Unit 11 - Street Dance Technique

Unit 12 - Contemporary Dance Technique

Each units requires you to demonstrate technique within that style, perform a series of dance pieces related to that style and complete coursework tasks exploring the historical context and progression of that style. The unit will be decided by your teacher at the end of Year 12.

Which exam board is used and how will I be assessed?

This is a Level 3 Extended Certificate in Performing Arts by Pearson. There are four units; two are externally assessed and two are internally assessed.

Where could this subject take me?

This subject will give you the perfect skills and knowledge to study any Dance or Performing Arts related degree course at University, Dance Conservatoire or Dance Theatre College. In terms of future career opportunities, with a background in Dance you could become a professional dancer, choreographer, producer, teacher, casting agent and many other roles which involve the art of performance or choreography.

How can I get ahead in this subject

Attend as many dance classes as you can in order to showcase your technique and ability for performances. Try to visit the theatre to watch as many professional dance or musical theatre pieces and pay close attention to the dancers- This could one day be you!