A Level Drama and Theatre Studies Overview

The A Level Drama and Theatre Studies course adheres to the AQA examination syllabus at KS5. Students can explore a variety of theatre practitioners, allowing them to tailor their studies to their collective interests. The curriculum includes in-depth study of two set texts: The Caucasian Chalk Circle by Bertolt Brecht and Bronte by Polly Teale. Students will examine both the playwrights’ theatrical approaches and the texts themselves, using these works, along with a professional production, as the foundation for their written examination.

In addition to textual analysis, students will create an original piece of devised theatre inspired by a stimulus of their choice and employing the techniques of a selected practitioner. They will also perform extracts from three contrasting published plays, with the final performance assessed by an external examiner. To support both their devised and scripted work, students will complete coursework that articulates their creative choices and decision-making processes.

Additionally, A Level students will have opportunities to participate in various theatre trips and immersive experiences, enriching their understanding of the dramatic arts.