Qualification details

AQA Level 1/Level 2 GCSE in Performing Arts (Double Award)

Qualification summary

All GCSE courses based on this specification should encourage learners to:
actively engage in the processes of performing arts to develop as effective and independent learners
develop broad skills, knowledge and understanding of the performing arts industry
develop their practical, technical and communication skills and encourage them to appreciate the need for continuous practice and improvement
develop their understanding of the contribution the performing arts industry makes at both local and national level
appreciate performing arts as an audience member
work with a range of media, including new media and emerging technologies, where appropriate
develop personal attributes including self-confidence, resilience, perseverance, self-discipline and commitment.

Qualification details

500/4402/3
1,2
GCSE - General Certificate of Secondary Education
GCSE - Double Award
Accreditation start date:
01/09/2008
Operational start date in centres:
01/09/2009
Accreditation end date:
31/08/2015
Certification end date:
31/08/2016
For information on the approval of qualifications for funding in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, see the links to DCSF, DIUS, DCELLS, DELNI and DENI below.

When undertaking a qualification that does not appear on the governments' lists as eligible for funding for specific age ranges, users must be aware of legal requirements. Not all qualifications are suitable for all age ranges.
For further information on 14-19 qualifications offered in England, please refer to the DCSF Section 96 website.

For further information on 19+ qualifications offered in England, please refer to the DIUS Section 97 website.
For further information on Wales, visit the DCELLS website.
For further information on Northern Ireland, visit the DELNI and DENI websites.
English
The qualification is an appropriate foundation for progression in performing arts, theatre studies and generic subjects such as dance, drama and music. It also provides a foundation for design work in set, costume and props and technical elements as in lighting and sound.

Other areas of study include make up design and stage management and so this provides access for similar related areas of study at higher levels or in employment. Many colleges of further and higher education offer a wide range of courses, for example, in Arts Management, technical lighting and sound design and theatrical make up.

The course provides a worthwhile introduction to a wide range of personal and organisational skills, which are very valuable in the workplace. It is available to learners of various ages and backgrounds in terms of general education and lifelong learning.
No specific job occupation
  • 09 Arts, Media and Publishing
    • 09.1  Performing Arts
240-280
180
A*A*/A*A/AA/AB/BB/BC/CC/CD/DD/DE/EE/EF/FF/FG/GG
Portfolio of Evidence
Practical Demonstration / Assignment
Task-based controlled assessment
The assessment of this specification follows the procedures for external and/or internal assessment as specified in the QCA Qualification and Subject Criteria.
All units are mandatory for this qualification.
  • R/501/5962 - Performing Arts: Skills Development
    Assessment Methods (these supersede the ones in the Unit Details):
    • Portfolio of Evidence.
  • M/501/5967 - Performing Arts: Showcase Performance
    Assessment Methods (these supersede the ones in the Unit Details):
    • Practical Demonstration / Assignment.
    • Task-based controlled assessment.
  • T/501/5968 - Performing Arts: Working to a Commission
    Assessment Methods (these supersede the ones in the Unit Details):
    • Portfolio of Evidence.
  • A/501/5969 - Performing Arts: Final Performance/Designs for the Chosen Commission
    Assessment Methods (these supersede the ones in the Unit Details):
    • Practical Demonstration / Assignment.
    • Task-based controlled assessment.