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A Level Drama & Theatre

At St Edward’s, our Drama course inspires students to become confident performers, directors and informed theatre makers. Through a blend of practical exploration, performance work and theoretical study, learners develop a deep understanding of dramatic styles, key practitioners, and the role of theatre in society.

Why Study A Level Drama & Theatre?

  • Develops creativity, communication and confidence, all of which are skills valued in all careers.
  • Combines practical performance with critical analysis of live theatre and set texts.
  • Opportunities to perform, direct and design for public audiences.
  • Excellent preparation for further study in theatre, acting, education, media and related fields.

The course is designed to stretch creativity, analytical skills and performance technique- whether students aspire to work in the arts or want to build transferable skills such as communication, confidence and collaboration.

  • 3 components: Theatre Workshop, Text in Action, and Text in Performance- assessed through performance and written elements.
  • Exam Board: Eduqas (A Level Drama and Theatre)

Course Contact

Mrs Lauren Keene
Head of Performing Arts

Course Content

Component 1: Theatre Workshop (20%) 

Learners reinterpret an extract from a text, using the techniques of a chosen theatre practitioner or company. The piece is developed and performed for assessment and accompanied by a creative log.

  • Internal assessment, externally moderated.

Component 2: Text in Action (40%)

Learners create two performances — one devised piece and one scripted extract — both inspired by a stimulus set by Eduqas. This component encourages creativity, collaboration, and original theatre-making.

  • External assessment by a visiting examiner.

Component 3: Text in Performance (40%)

Written examination lasting 2 hours 30 minutes. Students answer questions on two set texts studied during the course and evaluate a piece of live theatre seen during their studies.

  • External written exam.

Set Texts & Influences

  • One text is studied practically for performance and exploration.
  • Another text is studied for critical analysis and written exam preparation.
  • Students also experience and evaluate live theatre performances to deepen their understanding of performance styles and contexts.

Enrichment & Opportunities

  • Regular public performances, showcases and workshops with visiting theatre companies.

  • Trips to local and national theatres to see live professional work.

  • Masterclasses in acting, directing and design.

  • Opportunities to support school productions and lead younger students in drama activities.

Where can this take you?

A Level Drama and Theatre is valued by universities and conservatoires alike. Students often progress to degrees or training in:

  • Acting, Theatre Studies, Performing Arts, Directing, Stage Management, Design, and Technical Theatre.

It also provides transferable skills that are relevant to careers in education, media, law, events management, marketing and more.

Recent destinations include drama schools, performing arts colleges, and Russell Group universities offering theatre-related degrees.

Student Destinations 

  • St Mary's University Medical School - Medicine
  • Royal Holloway University - Drama and English
  • Guildford School of Acting - Musical Theatre
  • London School of Musical Theatre - Musical Theatre
  • Central School of Speech and Drama - Production

Student Testimonials

"Studying Drama at St Edward's School was a transformative experience that built my confidence and teamwork skills. Our teacher encouraged us to take creative risks and think critically, which was helpful across all my subjects. This early exposure sparked a passion for theatre that I’m excited to explore further in the future. The transferable skills are invaluable and has made me such a more confident, happier person."

KS5 Drama student