CHRISTOPHER WHITEHEAD
LANGUAGE COLLEGE AND SIXTH FORM
WELCOME TO CWLC SIXTH FORM!
GRACE COOK | SIXTH FORM STUDENT
I chose this subject as I thoroughly enjoyed both my theory and practical lessons throughout GCSE as well as the fact I wanted to do an A-level in a subject I knew I would love. My favourite part about studying A-level dance was the American Jazz dance module. I was familiar with the history of American jazz dance and loved the practical side of this module where I was able to learn choreography and works from Bob Fosse, Jerome Robins and Gene Kelly. It was nice to also have practical lessons which were a bit more of a challenge than they were at GCSE, the choreography is challenging and more complex. In addition throughout my a level I felt extremely supported by my dance teachers and it was clear to see they would do anything in order to help me succeed which I was very grateful for. I also feel like it developed me as a person: it taught me independence, patience, how to adapt to change, pushed me out of my comfort zone making me more confident today and was also challenging at points making me determined. Next year I am hoping to go on to study to be a primary school teacher at university and I believe A-level Dance was a good option for me to take as I have gained skills I will be able to take into my teaching career.
WHY CHOOSE A-LEVEL DANCE?
There is a strong Academic prowess required for the theoretical component of the course which requires analysis, interpretative and reflective practise, linking dance to the socio-political and cultural context of the defined areas of study. The subject allows students to think critically about dance as an art form and deepens their knowledge and understanding of the historical, artistic and anthropological standpoint of dance in the 21st century. We emphasise a focus on developing contemporary and jazz- based techniques and encourage creativity to enable students to find their own artistic voices through choreography and performance. Dance allows students to maintain physical and mental wellbeing and teaches the importance of leading a healthy, active and fulfilling lifestyle. The course prepares them for the intensity of study seen within higher education institutions and also offers a stepping stone to a career within industry. In addition, through the very nature of the subject; vital skills are developed beyond the curriculum which promotes the ethos of educating the whole young person.
WHY STUDY A-LEVEL DANCE AT CWLC?
CWLC has an exceptional track record of results at both GCSE and A–Level in Dance which consistently present way above the national average. Lessons are engaging and exciting and challenge students both physically and cognitively. Staff are experienced and specialists within their field relating directly to the areas of study. We regularly undertake inspiring trips and visits and offer professional workshops with industry professionals. We offer a variety of in-house and community-based performance opportunities and seek to enable students to develop leadership skills through the role of Dance Ambassadors. Students have additional opportunities within the wider Performing Arts Faculty, including a full scale annual musical production and half-yearly variety performances. We are excited to be able to offer two brand new purpose-built studio spaces, alongside additional rehearsal studios and a designated classroom.
WHAT COULD YOU DO NEXT?
Our past students have continued to progress their training routes through BA Dance degrees at university settings, as well as training in Dance full time at a conservatoire. Most recently, students have won places on degree courses at Urdang Academy and Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance. Many students also diversify into a range of other degrees including Primary Teaching and Arts Education to name but a few. Despite their chosen career path beyond A–Level, students often recognise the value of studying dance as an enjoyable and enriching subject that allows them the opportunity to express themselves and foster their creativity. Students also recognise the range of transferable life skills that they develop through the study of dance such as confidence, motivation and resilience, communication, creative thinking, problem solving and teamwork and leadership.