The aims of the course are to encourage the development of a range of theatre skills including direction, acting and design; to extend candidates’ knowledge and understanding of theatre, and to foster a critical and sensitive response to its complexities. 

Assessment is by final examination.  40% of the final marks are allocated for the practical component and 60% for the written component. 

During the course students will undertake a great deal of improvisational and practical drama work; they will be expected to present their work to an audience whenever possible.  Students will also be introduced to the ideas of leading theatrical practitioners and they will make a detailed study of at least two set texts.  Short extracts from 20th Century plays will be used for textual analysis; all work on texts being approached from the point of view of an actor or director. 

Perhaps the most important and enjoyable aspects of this course are the opportunities it offers the students to experience a wide range of theatrical productions and to respond to them in a sensitive and informed way, as well as to perform their own original work. 

Our Theatre Studies students are encouraged to assist with the Junior Drama Club and to make a major contribution to the annual House Drama Competition, as well as to the School Play.  There are plenty of opportunities for would-be directors, lighting experts, set designers to have ‘hands on’ experience.