Exam Board

Edexcel / Pearson

Course Details

The course consists of a mandatory unit (Performing to an Audience) plus, other option units that may include:

• Singing/Voice for the actor
• Applying Acting Styles
• Theatre for Children

Assessment

The delivery of this course is vocational-based. This means that the method of assessment is project-based and features ‘real-world scenarios within the process. These include audition, preparation and interview. Followed by casting, workshop and rehearsal, concluding in technical and dress rehearsals.

Developing Skills and Techniques

Classes will incorporate regular technique lessons and exploration constructed to introduce the students to best working practice, developing existing physical and vocal skills and honing completely new skills that are required for performers to successfully be employed within the industry.

Group Collaboration and individual social development

The emphasis is on employability therefore group-based practical work is key. Students will record their development in a Personal Actors Logbook (P.A.L) Students will also be required to produce additional evidence, this will be made clear in the project assignment brief along with the deadlines for each task set.

Students will be required to wear ‘rehearsal blacks’ and adhere to a code-of-conduct similar to that of professional actors. Progress will be monitored through regular checks that the students have the correct equipment, self-discipline and time management. (The course is continually assessed and punctuality/attendance records can form part of the assessment criteria and contribute to the overall outcome/final grade).

How the course is delivered

Students have four lessons a week that combine practical classes in voice, singing, acting and dance with academic theoretical lessons. Extracurricular rehearsal time is required in addition to regularly timetabled lessons.

Departmental Enrichment

Students must attend a range of professional performances and are required to perform at public events. In addition, students have the opportunity to participate in the College productions; participate in workshops with professional companies and gain experience operating sound and lighting equipment.

The Performing Arts Department at Wyke Sixth Form College

The department uses a rehearsal and performance space that has a fully sprung dance floor, mirrors, and sound and lighting facilities. In addition, it also has a studio space with fully sprung dance floor, mirrors, and sound equipment. It has access to the College Library and classroom facilities as well as the state of the art college ICT facilities.

What can I do now that would help prepare me for this course?

Attend as many performances as possible in any style or genre.

Gain as much performance experience as possible in any style, period or genre.

Read articles in The Stage. In addition, read reviews of performances in the national newspapers.

Read as many scripts as possible of any period or genre.

Begin to study music theory and learn to read music and/or play a musical instrument

Read books on performance related topics such as design, direction or performance theory