Year 9

Dance Enrichment

This course provides an opportunity to develop dance choreography, performance and appreciation skills through a range of different dance styles. Pupils have the opportunity to work in groups throughout and will participate in performances to their class and other dance groups in their own year.

Year 10

Edexcel BTEC Level 2 Extended Certificate in Performing Arts (Dance)

This 2 year course contains both practical dance and thoery content.  As well as focusing directly on dance, there is a wider Performing Arts focus.  Learners will undertake regular classes, learn different dance styles, absorb choreography made by others, and rehearse and take part in performances.  They will develop knowledge of the social and historical context of dance and the choreographic process as well as having the opportunity to explore their own choreographic skills and create dance for performance.  Learners will gain knowledge of employment opportunities within the Performing Arts industry and the jobs undertaken by those who work it it.  They will also explore a range of career opportunities with a view to their own professional development with the Performing Arts industry.

This Vocational course will be assessed through coursework.  This will consist of a variety of assignments including live performances, research, presentations, written tasks, projects and observation.

Year 12

Edexcel BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma in Performing Arts (Dance)

This 2 year course contains both practical dance and theory content.  As well as focusing directly on dance, there is a wider Performing Arts focus.  Learners will explore and perform dances to get a taste of the real world of the working dancer; one where talent, technical ability, aesthetic sense, fitness and stamina combine.  Learners will also gain an understanding of dance genres from around the globe.  The emphasis is on practical work underpinned by theoretical knowledge regarding history and context.  To gain a deeper knowledge of professional dance works, learners perform repertoire, choreographic investigation and apply underpinning theory.  As choreographers, learners will develop an understanding of the principles of choregraphy, producing choreography for different kinds of dances and for different purposes.  In addition learners will gain knowledge of the structure and function of the human body, focusing on the lifestyle and health of the performer.  Learners will experience performing a role as part of an ensemble presenting rehearsed work to a live audience in an appropriate vocational setting.

The programme of learning will consist of assignments which provide the opportunity for coverage of all grading criteria for each unit.  A variety of assessment methods will be used, including case studies, assignments, along with projects, performance observation and time-constrained assessments where appropriate.  Realistic scenarios will play an important part in learners' assessment.