A2 Dance

AS/A2 DANCE

AQA (1-2 years)

Course Content
If you have a keen interest in dance and want to broaden your knowledge and understanding of this subject then studying Dance at Peter Symonds may be the course for you.

The study of any subject at A level can be a big jump from GCSE, before you choose this subject you should familiarise yourself with the topics you will study and the way in which they are tackled.

Dance at AS/A2 covers a wide variety of topics.You will study contemporary dance techniques, choreography (creating your own dances), and dance analysis (analysing your own choreography and performance and that of professional choreographers) and safe practice in the dance studio.

Methods of Teaching

Studying Dance at this level means that you will be required to expand your knowledge of dance both practically and theoretically.Your lessons, therefore, will be a combination of practical dance classes, more formal lectures and interactive seminars.

Where possible you will be invited to work with outside professionals. You will also be guided through your own independent study, creating a link between college, university and/or employment.

There are several opportunities to see live performances. The department take trips to London on a regular basis as well as visiting theatres closer to home. We are fortunate enough to have The Point in Eastleigh, which offers a varied programme of dance throughout the year.

Methods and Patterns of Assessment

During your AS year you will create your own solo choreography and demonstrate your performance skills through a duet/trio. These performances will be assessed through a practical examination. You will learn about dancer as a performer and the significance of dances and this understanding will be assessed through a written examination.

In your A2 year you will create a group choreography which you will not perform in and a solo dance which has been informed by the topic you will study throughout the year. You will be assessed in this topic in more depth in a written examination.

Financial Implications

You will be asked to make a contribution of £10 towards the costs of handouts and other duplicated material, at the start of the course and you will need to buy some textbooks and video material of your own (approx. cost £30). Contribution towards visits to professional performances both outside and within college is also required.Please be aware that the College does have a Student Support Fund for those who have financial difficulties, so please do not allow any worries in this area to prevent you from embarking on this course.

Career Possibilities

These are not limited to a career as a dancer. The skills obtained on this course are transferable to a wide variety of professions. This course is also recognised as a suitable A level by the major selecting universities. We can give assistance to those wishing to audition for further professional training or dance related degree courses.