This course enables learners to get a taste of what it is like to be a professional dancer and choreographer. Throughout the course students will develop dance skills and techniques and experience the thrill of putting their skills into practice through regular performance opportunities. Students will also learn how to evaluate and improve their skills and develop an understanding of professional dance.
You can only choose Performing Arts (Dance) OR Performing Arts (Drama) — you cannot do both.
What the course involves
There are three components to this course:
Component 1 and 2 are internally assessed (marked by the teacher) and involve a combination of practical performances and written coursework. These components combined make up 60% of the final grade.
Component 3 is externally assessed (marked by the exam board), is worth 40% of the final grade and requires students to work in small groups to create a 7—15 minute performance based on a stimulus.
Students are also required to complete 3 written tasks in exam conditions to support the practical performance.
It is essential that students have an enthusiasm and passion for dance. Prior dance experience is advantageous but not essential.
Career opportunities
Career opportunities include professional dancer, choreographer, teacher, dance therapist, dance manager, dance administrator and dance company director. This course also develops a wide variety of transferable skills that are useful in many professions these include self-confidence, resilience, determination, communication, creativity and self-discipline.
Post-16 opportunities
If successful in this course students could develop their skills further by studying the Level 3 BTEC Performing Arts qualification or A Level Dance. Students may also choose to study for a dance diploma or degree at university or college, undertake an apprenticeship in a dance company or find employment in the performing arts industry.