• A range of theatrical skills, genres, styles, and practitioners
• A range of performance texts, developing understanding of their social, cultural and historical context including the theatrical conventions of the period in which they were created.
• The key acting and design elements in a theatrical performance.
• The importance of independence, reflection, and refinement in the creative process.
• The wide variety of roles and processes undertaken in contemporary professional theatre.

Component 1 – Devising

Non-examination assessment: internally assessed, externally moderated – 40% of qualification.

• You will create your own unique group performance which will culminate their practical knowledge of a range of different performance skills and styles.
• In addition to this, you will write a two-thousand-word portfolio that explains how and why the performance was created; a written commentary of the rehearsal and creating process.

Component 2 – Performance from Text

 Non-examination assessment: externally assessed by a visiting examiner – 20% of qualification.

• You will explore, rehearse, and perform a script from a published play.
• Interpreting and performing the chosen role from the script, as well as considering the staging, lighting, sound, and costume for the performance exam.

Component 3 – Theatre Makers in Practice

 1 hour 45 minute written examination – 40% of qualification.

 Section A

• Exploring the play text ‘An Inspector Calls’ by J. B. Priestley and gaining an understanding of the characters, plot, themes, and playwright’s intentions.
• You will consider the roles of the performer, director and designer when bringing a play text to stage.

Section B

• Visiting a West End Theatre Performance
• Evaluating and analysing the theatrical skills and design elements seen within the performance

Key Things to Consider:

• To be successful within the course you must be prepared to work with all members of your class as a team.
• The course is very demanding and requires significant commitment and dedication from students. You will be required to attend rehearsals and performances outside of lesson time.
• The course has a mixture of practical and written assessments.

Studying GCSE Drama at Woodcote opens a variety of exciting career opportunities in the performing arts and beyond. It provides a solid foundation for careers in acting, directing, stage management, and theatre production. Students can also pursue roles in film, television, or voice acting. Beyond performance-based careers, GCSE Drama develops communication, teamwork, and confidence, which are valuable in fields such as teaching, media, event planning, and public relations. Whether aiming for a career on stage, behind the scenes, or in a creative industry, Drama helps students build essential skills for a wide range of professional pathways.

Exam Board: Pearson EDEXCEL

Course Code: 60184917