GCSE Drama will reward those prepared to work hard with others towards a common end; the A/A* rate over the last three years averages 65%.
Everyone has the opportunity to study and perform scripts, have ‘hands-on’ experience of technical aspects (lighting, sound, etc.) and ‘devise’ (groups creating drama from one or more stimuli) during the two years. There will also be two or three theatre visits during the course. (It should be noted that there will be a charge for these visits, amounting to approximately £15 per trip.)
Coursework (60%) is assessed by the teacher and moderated externally. On at least three occasions the pupils will prepare and perform a piece, in small groups, to an audience and the two best marks will be chosen, each worth 30%. One of these marks must be based on scripted work. One mark can be based on technical or design aspects (set, lighting, sound, costume, etc.) but pupils interested in these aspects must do performance work for their second mark. The marks are awarded for preparation and performance as well as the pupils’ understanding of drama.
The written examination (40%) requires two questions on Set Plays (currently Denis Potter’s Blue Remembered Hills and Peter Hall’s adaptation of Animal Farm) to be answered in two hours.
All those taking Drama GCSE have the opportunity to be involved in the many dramatic activities at Repton School.