Dance A Level

Please note that applications to the sixth form close on Wednesday 14th January 2026. If you wish to make an application after this date please contact the sixth form office at office@derehamsixthform.norfolk.sch.uk or call 01362 696884.

For more information about a place at Dereham Sixth Form College for September 2026, please visit the website - www.dsfc.org.uk

Course Instructions

Most students will choose the equivalent of 3 A Levels but in some circumstances a maximum of 4. These are subjects that will continue for the full two years. Select only one subject from each option block (choosing more than 1 course from the same block will delay your application as courses from each block are timetabled at the same time). All courses are equivalent to 1 A Level except where specified differently below.

Dereham Education & Soccer Academy Including BTEC Diploma in Sport (equivalent to three A Level subjects, no other subject choices required).

If your choice of subjects are not available due to limitations of the blocks, please email us with the details: office@derehamsixthform.norfolk.sch.uk

Component 1: Performance and choreography

Solo performance linked to a specified practitioner within an area of study

Performance in a quartet

Group choreography

Practical exam

80 marks

50% of A-level

Non-examination assessment (NEA) marked by an external assessor from AQA during a visit to your centre. Visits will normally take place between March and May.

Externally set tasks are distributed by 15 September in the academic year of certification.

Component 2: Critical engagement

Knowledge, understanding and critical appreciation of two set works.

One compulsory set work within the compulsory area of study

One optional set work within the corresponding area of study, from a choice of four.

Written exam: 2 hours 30 minutes

100 marks

50% of A-level

Questions

Two sections:

Section A: short answer questions (25 marks) and one essay question (25 marks) on the compulsory set work/area of study.

Section B: two essay questions on the second set work/area of study (25 marks for each essay).

Three practical exams and one written exam.

Minimum 65444 including a 5 in English Language or Literature.

A-level Dance is a dynamic qualification which encourages students to develop their creative and intellectual capacity, alongside transferable skills such as team working, communication and problem solving. All of these are sought after skills by higher education and employers and will help them stand out in the workplace whatever their choice of career.

This specification reflects both historical and current dance practices, making it more relevant, and inspires a lifelong passion and appreciation for dance.