Qualifications: GCE A Level

Exam Board: OCR

Entry Requirements: Grade C or above in GCSE Drama and English.  Students will complete the following units:

1. Practitioners in Practice = 40%

2. Exploring and Performing Texts = 20%

3. Analysing Performance = 20%

4. Deconstructing Texts for Performance = 20%

Overview

Drama and Theatre Studies is a practical, intellectual and artistic subject. You will be expected to explore the structural elements of theatre from the page to the stage. In order to be successful and enjoy this subject, you will need to have a keen interest in the history of drama and study the practitioners, theatrical forms and conventions that make theatre such a compelling and exciting subject. You must be able to analyse and critically deconstruct the work you study, create and witness. It is recommended that students have achieved a C in GCSE Drama and English.

What will I learn?

The department has an excellent team of practitioners, supported by a theatre technician. It is energetic and successful, putting on a number of shows every year and getting involved in projects such as the Shakespeare Schools Festival, National Youth Theatre and Frantic Assembly Workshops. Productions and lessons benefit from the use of a raked 320 seat theatre. Students are encouraged to learn beyond their lessons and to take part in projects within and beyond College such as Devon Youth Theatre and the major annual College production.

How will I learn?
This course is designed to help you develop strong practical theatre skills backed up by sound knowledge of dramatic theory and practice. You will study play texts, review live theatre and perform in work that you have devised yourself as well as extracts from established texts. You will work on movement, voice and characterisation and keep a detailed portfolio of your process.

Where could it lead?
Theatre Studies is welcomed by higher education establishments on a par with other subjects. There is a considerable amount of academic rigour to this course which, combined with the practical element and approach, makes this an exciting and interesting course. Many students gain places on university courses connected with Theatre.

Contact

Dawn Shaw              Faculty Leader                                                 

dshaw@kingedwardvi.devon.sch.uk

 

Qualifications: GCE AS/A2 Level

Exam Board: Edexcel

Entry Requirements: Grade B or above in GCSE Music. Performing ability on an instrument (or voice) to at least Grade 5 standard is essential and students must continue with their instrument throughout the A Level course. Students who do not have Grade 5 Theory are required to study for this exam during the first term.

Overview

The Edexcel music course provides the basis for a thorough understanding of music performance, listening and composition. Students who choose to study Music A Level at KEVICC will be offered a range of opportunities for performance and a chance to attend workshops in and out of college.  The department provides students access to good recording facilities and a suite of practice rooms.

What will I learn?

During the course students will study three areas of music: composition, musical analysis and performance. They will create their own composition, write about their journey towards this piece of work and present a recital programme. Students will learn the fundamentals of harmony and chorale writing as well as appraising the rich variety of musical styles from around the world, including Western Art music; a sense of curiosity is vital.

How will I learn?

Music at KEVICC is a popular choice with students and, therefore, those who choose to study at the college have the opportunity to learn alongside a number of other able musicians. Lessons are highly engaging and motivating with regular independent learning activities. Students take part in numerous activities which contribute to our rich and stimulating musical community they are also expected to run extra-curricular activities. The department give students the chance to take part in a number of projects, shows and concerts over the course of the year and, in addition, the annual college show; this is a major performance opportunity. Musical ensembles include choir, orchestra and bands, there is plenty of opportunity to perform either as part of a KEVICC ensemble or with your own group.

Where could it lead?

Many students who study A Level Music progress to music college or university degree courses in order to begin a career as a professional musician.  However, the A level music qualification provides the basis for a wide range of other higher education courses and areas of employment such as music production, TV, theatre and film composition and arts management. Universities and employers often consider an advanced level music qualification as an asset to potential under graduates or employees. Studying music at A level will enhance your CV and your prospects of future employment or training.

Contact

Nicola Hansford              Raising Standards Leader                                                nhansford@kingedwardvi.devon.sch.uk

 

Qualifications: BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma in Music (option for early exit at end of Year 12 with a Level 3 Certificate)

Exam Board: Edexcel

Entry Requirements: 5 GCSEs at grades A*-C. A passion for music and a good ability in performance on a chosen instrument (including voice).  A willingness to commit to out of College hours rehearsals and attend live performances.  You do not need to be able to read music but some basic knowledge of music theory will be helpful.

Overview

The BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma in Music Performance is a two-year vocational course which provides students with a practical understanding of the skills required to work within the music sector.  It is a modern and contemporary music course, looking at research of professional practice, improvisation, composing and aural skills, with the main focus being performance.  This is a highly recognised musical qualification.

What will I learn?

Each term, students will explore performance techniques, composing and aural skills as well as looking at music within the industry and the place of popular music within the history of music.  There will be projects linked with the community as well as opportunities to regularly gig and create your own showreel/CD to self-promote as you launch yourself into the local and regional music performance field.

This is a newly delivered, first time course for musicians who are keen to work with local artists, commit to being a self-sustained musician and want to broaden their own skills in being successful in the music industry.  

Students will be guided through appropriate repertoire and technique as well as support in choosing the right course for their career.

How will I learn?

You will, essentially, become a member of a musician company within college and will learn by completing a range of projects and assignments that are based on realistic workplace situations, activities and demands. The work will be assessed through evidence-based portfolios, solo and ensemble performance recordings and composition work.  As well as learning about the employment area you have chosen, you will develop the skills that you need to start a career. The course is delivered by professionals with real experience of professional performance and the sound world.

Where could it lead?

As a Level 3 vocational course, this is the perfect spring board to a career in the music industry. Students will explore the diverse range of employment opportunities, aside from professional performer.  Colleges and universities recognise this as the equivalent to one A level. For students entering vocational higher education, such as modern/pop or live music degrees, this is the most common qualification for new entrants.

Contact Nicola Hansford          Raising Standards Leader                              nhansford@kingedwardvi.devon.sch.uk