Students smiling and reading text books together
  • Starts 6 September 2027
  • English Bridge Campus
  • 2 Years
  • Academic A-Level
  • DRA-AL(2729)
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This exciting course offers opportunities to learn about all aspects of the dramatic arts. We offer a practical, engaging, and creative course where students will examine the work of drama practitioners, explore drama as a practical art form, and work independently to create their own performances.

The course is run by dedicated and experienced teaching staff who will help students gain new skills and knowledge in the dramatic arts.

  • Entry Requirements

    A minimum of five GCSEs at Grade 4 or above, including English Language.

  • What does the course involve?

    Students will be given a thorough grounding in the fundamentals of performing and will explore the innovative styles of a range of playwrights, directors, actors and companies. Students will develop and demonstrate theatre-making skills and will be given opportunities to experience live theatre.

    Most lessons will be practical, and because live performances are assessed, there will be extra rehearsals outside of lessons. Over the course of the two years, learners will also study three drama texts, their knowledge of which will be assessed in the written exam. Homework across both years will include researching specific practitioners, answering exam-style questions on the set texts, writing scripts, and learning lines.

    Year 1:

    • Operating in a small group, students will reinterpret a section of a script and integrate it with their own devised work
    • They will be introduced to a range of theorists and practitioners, and will analyse the first set text

    Year 2:

    • Students will work on a devised and a scripted piece to perform to an external examiner. The assessment of this unit also includes the production of an evaluative report
    • Classes will examine two further set texts and will prepare for the summer exam by writing practice answers
  • How is the course assessed?

    60% of the assessment is performance-based, and 40% is based on a written exam. It has three components: two practical exams and one written exam on three set texts.

  • Additional Notes

    Most of our A Level Drama and Theatre Studies students progress to higher education, with many choosing degree courses in the dramatic arts. This course is an excellent step toward a career in the performance industry, showing that a student is confident, self-disciplined, and able to work in a team.

  • Further Information

    Students will complement their studies with trips to see live theatre performances. Recent excursions include House Party in Leeds and Lost Atoms at Liverpool Playhouse. Students will also benefit from our newly constructed studio theatre and dedicated rehearsal spaces.

  • What do I do next?

    You can apply online via the APPLY button and then add an additional two or three subjects to make up your academic programme. You can also apply for a second, alternative vocational programme of study via a separate application. If after reading this factsheet, you are still undecided about the course most suitable for you, please drop into one of our open evenings, ring our Admissions Department on 01743 653111, or email admissions@scg.ac.uk

English & Drama Courses

  • Drama and Theatre Studies A Level

    Starts 6 September 2027

    English Bridge Campus

    Read more
  • English Combined A Level

    Starts 6 September 2027

    English Bridge Campus

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  • English Language A Level

    Starts 6 September 2027

    English Bridge Campus

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  • English Literature A Level

    Starts 6 September 2027

    English Bridge Campus

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  • AQA GCSE English Language - Evening

    Ring for details

    London Road Campus

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  • Creative Writing

    Starts 16 September 2026

    London Road Campus

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  • Creative Writing - Developing Your Craft

    Starts 20 January 2027

    London Road Campus

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  • EDEXCEL Functional Skills English Level 1 - Day

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    London Road Campus

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Opportunities to find out more about the college

  • A Level & Vocational Arts Taster Day

    21 November 2026 - 9.00am-1.00pm
    English and Welsh Bridge campuses
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  • Technical & Vocational Taster Day

    28 November 2026 - 9.00am-1.00pm
    London Road Campus
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  • Live Q&A: Your Counselling Questions Answered

    6 January 2027 - 12.00pm-1.00pm
    Online
    Book
  • Bookkeeping & Accounting Info Evening

    20 January 2027 - 5.00pm-7.00pm
    London Road Campus
    Book
  • Live Q&A: Your Counselling Questions Answered

    25 January 2027 - 6.00pm-7.00pm
    Online
    Book
  • Open Evening Spring 2027 English Bridge Campus | A Levels & Creative Arts

    28 January 2027 - 5.00pm-7.00pm
    English Bridge Campus
    Book
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