Minerva Learning Trust

Dance

A Level AQA

The study of Dance enables students to develop socially whilst promoting creativity, fitness and wellbeing. Students will be taught to become performers and they will also develop confidence, self-esteem and team working skills. 

The course includes a combination of practical dance exploration alongside creative extended writing assignments. This combines analytical, cultural, artistic and aesthetic education with skill acquisition and objectivity; developing creativity, imagination and individuality against the knowledge of artistic dance convention, to equip students with the necessary skills and experience to study Dance further vocationally and academically. This course is designed for those who are passionate about Dance and want to pursue a career within the Performing Arts. 

 A Level Dance focuses on: 

  • The development of Rambert Dance company 1966-2002  
  • The development of American Jazz Dance 1940-1975  
  • Performance of a solo   
  • Performance within a quartet  
  • Choreography on a group of dancers 
Assessment
Practical Live Exam - 50%
  • Solo Performance 
  • Quartet Performance and Choreography 
  • Group Choreography 
Written Exam: Critical Engagement - 50% 
  • Compulsory set work of study: Rooster (Christopher Bruce) 1991 
  • Compulsory area of study: Rambert Dance Company 1966-2002 
  • Optional area of study: Singin’ in the Rain - American Jazz Dance  
Skills Developed and Career Prospects

A Level Dance will help students with further understanding and experience of technical and performance skills, and the development of dance placed within an artistic and cultural context. Students will work with professional dance companies to further their skills on technique and performance.

Opportunities to audition for High Storrs Dance Company will be available. The company get the chance to perform in One Dance UK’s regional platform Fresh Festival for youth dance groups. This will give students the experience of performing on a professional stage and nationwide platform.

Students who gain a qualification in A Level Dance have progressed taking a degree or diploma at prestigious Vocational Dance Schools and Conservatoires including Urdang Academy, Laines Theatre Arts, Doreen Bird, London Contemporary Dance School, Northern School of Contemporary Dance and LIPA.  

High Storrs Sixth Form Entry Requirements

A minimum of five GCSEs at Grade 9 - 4. This MUST include at least a Grade 4 in English Language and Mathematics

Plus

Grade 4 in Dance OR an equivalent demonstration of expertise

Students must have a background in a recognised dance technique which may need to be verified through an audition process. Applicants must be confident in performing live on stage in front of small and large audiences. During the course students will attend rehearsals/performances outside their usual curricular hours.