The course demands practical, creative and communication skills in almost equal measure. You will extend your ability to create drama and theatre, either in a performing OR a production role. Collyer’s has an excellent reputation for the quality of its drama work, with many of our students progressing to the top Universities and Drama Schools in the country.

The Head of Subject works professionally as an actor, lyricist, writer and director. He has over two decades of teaching experience at A level and is a fellow of the Royal Society of Arts.

Candidates get the opportunity to work on devised, contemporary and classical plays. They will be expected to purchase and read set texts, plus pay for a variety of theatre trips during the course.

• Explore plays through both practical and written responses.
• Work on specific roles in contrasting plays and be assessed on their performances.
• Work in a group to produce an original piece of devised theatre.
• Examine how some plays were originally performed.
• We are always keen for you to learn theory through practice so your written work is relevant and informed. Our aim is to develop you
• as both an individual and team player throughout the course -; skills which are valuable to a range of career paths.

In the first year, you study one set play, ‘That Face’; by Polly Stenham, and devise a piece of original drama in a group after studying the physical theatre practitioner, Frantic Assembly. You also attend at least two performances, both local and London based. In the second year, you study your second set play ‘Dr Faustus’; by Christopher Marlowe. You also perform in both a scripted group piece and either a monologue or a duologue. In the second year, you will also attend at least two performances, one of which you review for your written exam.

A wide range of teaching and learning styles is used during the course. Formal lessons are combined with discussion, group work, task- based learning and research activities.

Both years of the course include involvement in a theatrical production which is shown in The Sealight Theatre. It is expected that you will work independently outside, completing a range of tasks and activities in an Independent Study Pack.

There is also a commitment to attending additional rehearsals in the weeks preceding performances. 1:1 support is available to all students.

Drama is ideal for students who wish to develop their performance and presentation skills. The Drama A Level provides students with the opportunity to explore their own creative expression, supported by a critical understanding of dramatic practitioners and theatrical works. Students will be encouraged to enhance their interpersonal and communication skills, working collaboratively to create and perform pieces across a variety of styles and genres.

If you choose this course you would benefit from:

• Experienced teachers with active arts industry experience.
• Unique and specialised workshop hosted by professional and current theatre practitioners.
• Performance opportunities within college and at local professional theatres.
• Inspirational theatre trips to London’s West End to nurture acting skills and theatrical experience.