Duration

Two years

Independent Study Time

Students will be required to undertake rehearsals according to production schedules in addition to attendance at lectures and all rehearsals. There will be performance times outside of college hours.

Entry Requirements and Student Suitability

Four GCSEs at grade C or above in appropriate subjects, including one subject that assesses the use of English and significant experience of Dance in one or more genres.

Course Content

The BTEC qualification is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in dance technique, dance appreciation and creative ability. Students will take part in technique classes, creative workshops, rehearsals and performances, lectures, discussions and tutorials. The vocational nature of the course ensures that students develop the practical and theoretical skills required to progress onto Degree level education or to find employment. The BTEC Extended Diploma Dance qualification is the equivalent of three A Levels.

The BTEC qualification is made up of 18 units studied across two years. The first year of study is designed to give the students experience of a range of dance genres and styles whilst the second year is designed to encourage the students to become creative and thoughtful dancers.

Mandatory Units

• Performance Workshop
• Performing Arts Business
• The Historical Context of Performance
• Rehearsing for Performance (double unit)
• Performing to an Audience
• Dance Performance

Specialist Units

• Applying Classical Ballet Technique
• Developing Classical Ballet Technique
• Applying Contemporary Dance Technique
• Developing Contemporary Dance Technique
• Choreographing Dance
• Choreographic Principles
• Developing Physical Theatre
• Jazz Dance
• Musical Theatre Performance
• Tap Dance
• Urban Dance

In addition to the BTEC qualification students can follow the AS and A2 Level Dance specification which offers the opportunity to learn skills for solo and group choreography, dance analysis, technique and anatomy and physiology.

Resources

Truro College is well equipped for the study of dance and boasts facilities of two dance studios with sprung floor, mirrors and barre, three theatre spaces and excellent libraries with books, magazines, CDs, and DVDs.

Teaching Staff

There are three full time experienced tutors in Dance and five part-time specialist staff in Ballet, Jazz and Contemporary Dance. Each tutor has significant expertise in a number of Dance genres.

Assessment and Coursework

Assessment is by a combination of practical and written assignments, performances and presentations.

Progression and the Future

This unique combination of A Level Dance and the BTEC Extended Diploma in Dance is designed to equip students with the knowledge, understanding and skills required for success in Dance. Many students will go on to follow a course of professional training at Dance School and the course is equally valid for progression to degree courses at University. The BTEC Extended Diploma qualification is the equivalent of three A Levels and gives students the opportunity to study a range of degrees in Higher Education.

How to Apply

Application forms are available from schools or from the College. For further information please contact Hayley Tucker on 01872 267006.