Academic Offer

Students study the CCEA GCE Specification in Performing Arts. It has two levels: AS and A2. Students can choose to take the AS course as a stand-alone qualification or they can progress to A2 and obtain the full A Level.

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Performing arts is a growth industry in Northern Ireland. It encompasses many different disciplines that are both performance and production related. Students choose one discipline from either a performance perspective or production perspective. This may be: dance, music or drama, or choreography, costume design, set design, direction, musical direction, stage management, lighting technician or sound technician.

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In Unit AS 1, students will develop skills and repertoire. They will apply these skills in practical contexts and they will produce a portfolio of evidence and evaluate their work.

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In Unit AS 2, students will plan and realise a performing arts event. They will produce a supporting document to record their work as they plan, develop and realise their performing arts event.

 

In Unit A2 1, students learn about planning for employment in the performing arts industry. They produce a promotional portfolio and take part in an audition and interview.

 

In Unit A2 2, students form a production company to research, plan, promote and realise a performing arts event in response to a commission brief. They produce a record of work, which includes a research report, promotional materials and evidence of tasks completed. Students continue in their production or performance role and perform their event.

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Extra-Curricular Offer

The Performing Arts Department works very closely with both the Drama and Music Departments. Rehearsal time for performances and portfolio clinics for written work happen on a weekly basis. Performing arts students are encouraged to take part in our annual school production – performing on stage, as part of the band and backstage in costume and lights and sound. The students are also given the opportunity to work with industry specialists, and they have been very fortunate to work with Brian McMahon and James McConville.

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Here are some photographs of workshops, final performances and promotional portfolio materials.

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