Other Courses

Drama and Theatre Studies A level (SA056)

Paston College

Grammar School Road, North Walsham, Norfolk, NR28 9JL

GCE A/AS Level or Equivalent

Level 3

Available start dates

Friday, 01 September 2023

Paston College

2 Year(s)

Full time

Daytime/working hours

Application Instructions

3 A Level Programme

Minimum of 66444 at GCSE (Please note : grade 4 may be replaced by an 'old C' grade and grade 6 by 'old' B grade)

Vocational subjects cannot replace GCSEs for entry on to an A Level programme.

You must also study English/Maths GCSE if you have not already achieved grade 4 in these subjects.

4 A level programme

If you achieve a minimum of 3 GCSE's at grade 8 (A*) plus 5 at grade 7 (A) and your English Language and Maths are at minimum grade 4, you will have the option to join the A Plus programme.

Please note that A Plus is designed for applicants to academic courses at Oxford, Cambridge or other Russel Group universities. Grades in vocational subjects cannot replace GCSE's for entry to this programme.

Vocational programmes

Minimum of five grade 4 at GCSE (or old grade C) or Merit/Distinction in a relevant BTEC First Diploma (or equivalent) plus 1 grade 4 (or old grade 4) at GCSE. You must also study English Language and/or Maths GCSE if you have not already achieved grade 4 in these subjects.

Level 2 programme

Minimum of three grade 4 at GCSE (or old Grade C).

This programme is designed for those students who just miss our entry requirements for level 3 study. It includes an opportunity to improve your GCSE English Language and Maths grades, alongside a Workskills course to develop the skills required for progression into employment or onto a level 3 programme.

Course Details

This is a heavily practical course that is idea for those who are passionate about performance. This subject is an excellent choice for those who are looking to progress on to further study at university or drama school. It is also a great way to develop a range of transferable skills for the world of work.

WHAT YOU WILL LEARN?

You will explore a variety of topics and will focus on a range of modern and classical texts and plays such as Steven Berkoff’s Metamorphosis and Dario Fo’s Accidental Death of an Anarchist.You will learn techniques to help further enhance your performance skills and will take part in a range of live performances throughout the year.

UNIQUE OPPORTUNITIES

You will be taught in the College’s new, purpose built 150 seat Griffon Theatre by Drama specialists who have worked, or are currently working, in professional theatre in various capacities.You will also have the opportunity to join Paston’s student theatre company Far East which stages two or more major productions every year.

Alongside this, you will have opportunities to get involved in professional work related opportunities through our close links with local theatres, such as Sheringham Little Theatre and St. Georges Theatre in Great Yarmouth, and local and national theatre companies such as fEAST, Single Shoe and Improbable Theatre.

IS IT SUITABLE FOR YOU?

If you’re looking for a course that allows you to develop self-confidence, work creatively with others to meet deadlines, solve problems and improve your attention to detail, analytical and conceptual skills, then this course could be for you.

HOW YOU ARE ASSESSED?

You will be assessed through written coursework, a written exam and a range of monologue, duologue and group performances.

THIS COURSE GOES WELL WITH…

A broad range of A Level subjects including English, Film Studies and Psychology.

Entry requirements

3 A Level Programme

Minimum of 66444 at GCSE (Please note : grade 4 may be replaced by an 'old C' grade and grade 6 by 'old' B grade)

Vocational subjects cannot replace GCSEs for entry on to an A Level programme.

You must also study English/Maths GCSE if you have not already achieved grade 4 in these subjects.

If you achieve a minimum of 3 GCSE's at grade 8 (A*) plus 5 at grade 7 (A) and your English Language and Maths are at minimum grade 4, you will have the option to join the A Plus programme.

Your next steps...

YOU CAN GO ON TO DO...

Drama and performance at universities such as Leeds, Kent, Hull, Lancaster, Warwick and Bath Spa.You could also look to train at drama schools such as East 15, LAMDA and Rose Bruford to study acting, musical theatre or stage management courses.

This course is well regarded by many employers and a good A Level subject for careers involving contact with people such as teaching, journalism, TV, radio and performance. Former students have achieved places in the National Youth Theatre and Youth Music Theatre UK.

For more courses like this, check our courses page.