GCE Performing Arts (2016)

The CCEA GCE Performing Arts specification encompasses drama, dance, music and any genre that involves performing in front of an audience. Performing arts is a huge growth industry in Northern Ireland: the Game of Thrones phenomenon has resulted in a burgeoning film industry, with many other major productions, such as Derry Girls, Line of Duty and The Fall creating a range of employment opportunities here.

This specification is available at two levels: AS and A2. Students can take the AS units plus the A2 units for a full GCE A level qualification. They can also choose to take the course as a stand-alone qualification.

In the AS units, students develop their skills and apply them to practical contexts. They will also plan and realise a Performing Arts event.

Students who continue to A2 learn about planning for employment in the performing arts industry, and will also have the opportunity to form a production company to research, plan, promote and realise a performing arts event in response to a commission brief.

The specification has four units:

  • Unit AS 1: Developing Skills and Repertoire
  • Unit AS 2: Planning and Realising a Performing Arts Event
  • Unit A2 1: Planning for Employment
  • Unit A2 2: Performing to a Commission Brief.

Current Specification

First teaching: from September 2016
First award of AS level: from Summer 2017
First award of A level: from Summer 2018
QAN AS level: 601/8906/X
QAN A level: 601/8907/1
Subject code: LC11
Guided learning hours AS level: 180
Guided learning hours A level: 360
Qualification level: 3

Skills developed through our GCE Performing Arts

This specification builds on learning from Key Stage 4 and gives students opportunities to continue to develop the Cross-Curricular Skills and the Thinking Skills and Personal Capabilities.

Students develop skills through preparing for performances by:

  • using a variety of research methods;
  • completing a skills audit;
  • independent learning and self-management;
  • action planning and target setting;
  • using rehearsal strategies and techniques;
  • engaging in a regular programme of practice;
  • using teacher, peer and self-evaluation;
  • record keeping;
  • understanding health and safety practices; and
  • completing a risk assessment.

Students develop skills in relation to their chosen discipline:

  • Dance
  • Drama
  • Music
  • Choreography
  • Set Design
  • Costume Design
  • Direction
  • Musical Direction
  • Stage Management
  • Technical (Lighting or Sound). 

For more information on this specification contact:

Louise Millar
Specification Support Officer
Ingrid Arthurs
Subject Officer
(028) 9026 1200 ext. 2398

Work with us

There are currently no positions related to this qualification with CCEA. To see all available positions with CCEA visit our jobs section.