Dance

What is Dance A-Level?

This dynamic course blends choreography, performance, and critical analysis, giving you the chance to explore dance as both an art form and a powerful way of communicating. You'll develop your technical dance skills, learn to express your ideas through movement, and study the social and historical context of dance. Whether you’ve danced for years or are keen to take your passion to the next level, this course is for you!

What will you study on A-Level Dance?

The A-Level Dance programme is designed to provide a thorough understanding of both the practical and theoretical aspects of dance.

You will develop skills in various dance techniques, choreography, and performance, as well as partake in solo and group tasks. The course also involves critical evaluation and skill development.

Key study areas include:

Technique and Choreography: Building foundational skills through hands-on practice.
Dance History and Theory: Exploring significant developments and influential works in the field, such as the evolution of dance in Britain and key figures in the Independent Contemporary Dance Scene.
Professional Works Study: Detailed analysis of notable performances by Rambert and other contemporary practitioners, focusing on their backgrounds, styles, and influences.
Exam Preparation: Gearing up for the theoretical components of the course through the study of set works like ‘Rooster’ (Bruce, 1991) and ‘Sutra’ (Cherkaoui, 2008).

What Next after studying Dance A-Level?

After completing the A-Level Dance course, many of our students advance to higher education, pursuing further studies in dance and performance at esteemed establishments, including LIPA, London Studio Centre, and London Contemporary Dance School. Others decide to explore a broader range of academic disciplines at university.

The skills developed through the A-Level Dance programme, including problem-solving, analytical thinking, and teamwork, are highly transferable and valuable across various career fields.

Exam Board for A-Level Dance

The AQA (Assessment and Qualifications Alliance) is the examining board for the Dance A-Level course. They set out and assess the exam to make sure students meet the required standards for this qualification.

How it's assessed:

Written exam: 2 hours 30 minutes 100 marks 50% of the A-Level

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)

Entry Requirements for A Level Dance

To qualify for the Dance A-Level at Cardinal Newman, students must achieve a minimum of five GCSEs at grade 5 or higher, including at least a grade 5 in English Language or English Literature. Additionally, either a GCSE in Dance or equivalent dance training is required, and students must participate in an audition or workshop as part of the selection process.

At Cardinal Newman, we offer the flexibility of a Mixed Programme too. This allows students to combine A-Level courses with BTEC qualifications.

What Enrichment is on offer in this subject?

You'll have the chance to:
• Take part in workshops with professional dance companies
• Perform in showcases and college productions
• Go on theatre trips to see live dance performances
• Join our Dance Academy
• Be part of community dance projects and competitions

What other subjects go well with this subject?

A Level Dance can be studied alongside any other subject. Some examples of combinations that work well with Dance are:
• Drama & Theatre – for performers who love to tell stories
• Music – for rhythm and musicality
• Psychology – to explore movement, behaviour, and emotion
• English Literature or Language – to deepen your understanding of narrative and theme
• PE or Biology – for those interested in anatomy, physiology, and movement science
• History – to deepen understanding of context, culture and society

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