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Dance

Year 9 (Block 3)

In Block 3 students can opt to take part in Dance within the curriculum. They will be involved in a wide range of dance styles as an introduction to and preparation for the BAC course. Choreographing, performing and evaluating are the key areas of learning - the aim is to introduce these elements through a lively, fun and stimulating programme.

Years 10 & 11 (Blocks 4 & 5)

Dance today is a vital art form and a wonderful medium for self-expression and personal development. Students on the Bedales Assessed Course will learn to perform, understand and appreciate Dance in a wide variety of styles. Set topics include an in-depth study of a professional British dance work post-1950 and an extended specialist study resulting in a substantial written and practical response. Performances to other students and to wider audiences form an integral part of the course.

Sixth Form

The course presents an exciting way to study Dance as an art form and is suitable for those who have an interest in developing their knowledge and understanding of Dance and the skills needed to create and perform. Dance is also particularly valuable for students considering the theatre as a career.

The course has three main areas of focus:

• To enable students to experience performance and choreography
• To extend their appreciation of Dance and to develop critical thinking skills in relation to Dance as an art form
• To allow teachers to choose the genres and styles for study, looking at a diverse range of dance works and choreographers

At AS Level, students will focus on the development and performance of their own choreography and performing within a duo/trio. Candidates will receive training on technique and the health and safety of the dancer. They will begin to develop critical skills for the analysis of choreography and performance within their own work and in professional repertoire.

At A2  level students will focus on investigating one area of study from: ballet, modern dance or jazz dance. Critical analysis and appreciation of a set work; group choreography from investigation and research of ideas through to outcome and solo performance skills form the basis of the second year.

Students of Dance may take part in three main performances during the year. Regular workshops are organised with visiting professional companies. Live performances are also an integral part of the course and regular theatre visits take place to watch performances both in our own theatre and further afield. Dance has close links with the Drama Department and frequently work alongside each other on school productions.

All students have the opportunity to participate in the Bedales Dance Company. A group which meet regularly to create and perform exciting and challenging pieces both within our own programme and beyond.

ISTD Ballet, Tap and Modern can all be taken as extra curricular activities with visiting peripatetic teachers.

Examining Board: AQA

Course Teachers: Jo Alldridge, Claire Gammon

Download a guide to the Sixth Form Curriculum.

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