Drama and Theatre Studies A Level

Applications Open: - Friday 14 November 2025

Applications Close: - 13 February 2026. Applications may be considered after this date but it is strongly advised to apply before this deadline.

Entry Requirements: - Admission to courses - This is based on your needs and staff advice, but you should be aware of these points: 1. You will need to obtain a minimum of six GCSE passes at Level 5 or above including Mathematics and English (a minimum of a grade 5 in the reformed GCSE qualifications in English and Mathematics) and grades 9-6 in their preferred A-Level subjects or nearest equivalents. 2. Subjects have clear entry requirements. You will find these under the course details or from Subject Heads.

How to Apply: - Please apply via KentChoices (Internal and External Students)

External Applicants - please click here (This form is for external candidates and parents/carers to book a slot to ask any questions about the admissions process and Sixth Form at Highsted Grammar School). Please be aware that it is first come, first served. We will try our best to accommodate your preferences but this might not always be possible).

Internal candidates - should contact their Head of Year directly.

• With this qualification students will be able to enter all institutions of higher education including the very best courses at university and drama schools.

• Students will develop dramatic skills across all areas from acting, directing, costume and set design.

• Students will also gain knowledge in responding to live theatre seen during the course and develop journalistic skills.

• Interpret plays from different genres and periods. Develop writing styles.

• Work as a team to create own unique theatre as well as scripted play.

• Enjoy a varied, dynamic and exciting course developing creativity.

• Gain confidence in public speaking a skill which is required in many careers.

• Become a key contributor to enrichment and leadership activities within the drama department

This course combines well with other arts and humanities subjects such as English, History and Sociology. It offers essential grounding for degrees and other courses in Drama and Theatre Studies and unlike Performing Arts courses is recognised by all universities and colleges.

During the course there are opportunities for theatre visits, workshops and lectures to support the study of set texts.

Drama and Theatre Studies enables students to pursue their interest in and enjoyment of drama and the theatre, exploring the practical and theatrical aspects of the subject at an academic level. The A Level course involves practical exploration of the subject through devised drama, play 'in production' and performance. This work is set alongside the study of set texts and theatre practitioners, such as Stanislavski, Katie Mitchell, Brecht, Frantic Assembly and Max Stafford Clark. They will also explore the works of Henrik Ibsen and Timberlake Wertenbaker.

GCSE grade 6 or above in English Literature and preferably GCSE Drama (however, this is not essential. Many past students have successfully studied Theatre Studies without a GCSE in Drama). Although no previous knowledge or experience of drama is required, it is essential that students have an enthusiastic, genuine interest in drama and the theatre, and be prepared to participate in all activities in practical lessons. Students will be required to attend/ view at least two theatrical productions over the two year course.