Katie Greer
Drama and Theatre
Why did you choose to study A Level Drama at Blue Coat?
I chose to study A Level Drama because I am passionate about drama and dance. I wanted to stay in Blue Coat Sixth Form because I knew the environment and the teachers well, having been a student in lower school. I felt comfortable and didn’t want to leave. As well as Drama I studied Media and English Language. All my subjects involve some essay writing, so they all support each other. Studying drama gives you the opportunity to go on trips to see live theatre. At one point we went to London to watch ‘Machinal’ and we have been on three or four other trips to live theatre more locally. I also had the opportunity to take part in the school show performing a showcase medley from ‘Mean Girls’. I did a musical piece and hosted the event and helped teach lower school students dance routines.
How are you hoping to use your A Level Drama in the future and what did you gain from it?
Studying Drama improves self-confidence and teamwork with other drama students. You need to have confidence. The close relationship with other students in class really helps because I didn’t get embarrassed in front of them, and I could make and learn from mistakes. Drama teaches you to be in the moment and not be self-conscious.
What is studying A Level Drama like at Blue Coat?
A Level drama is definitely harder than GCSE. There is a lot of content and a lot of work to do. Classes are small but this means we were able to quickly form a bond as a group. I’ve also had a great relationship with the teachers – you get one-to-one support and help after school or at lunch times with coursework or other work. It is recommended that you watch as much live theatre as you can. Part of the exam is based on watching a live performance. The written exam has three sections: a piece on how you would direct a play, a piece about a story and characters which you must change and a live theatre review. There are also three practical exams. You must devise your own thirty-minute drama completely made up by yourself, perform a two-minute monologue and perform a scripted work. Coursework requires you to devise a performance.
The Blue Coat Sixth Form is proud to be part of the Cranmer Education Trust
Cranmer Education Trust is a company limited by guarantee and an exempt charity registered in England. Company registration number: 07687709. Registered Office: Cranmer Education Trust, c/o The Blue Coat School, Egerton Street, Oldham OL1 3SQ. The website address is www.cranmereducationtrust.com and the phone number 0161 785 5082.