Assessment
Each unit has one or more assessments which are graded and count towards the overall mark.
Assessment methods include practical classes, performances solo and group, on-going rehearsal activities and a portfolio of assignments to include reflections, and written work and presentations for example essays, reports, vlogs, showreels and in the final year, an independent project to “define self as artist”.
A typical formal summative assessment pattern for each year of the course is:
Year 1
2 x formal class technical assessments (to include a variety of dance styles) (or 1.5 hours in length)
1 x vocal practical assessment
1 x musicianship / group harmony class assessment
1 x acting technical class assessment
2 x performance assessments to professional panel of experts
1 x assignment portfolio
Year 2
2 x formal class technical assessments (to include a variety of dance styles) (or 1.5 hours in length)
1 x vocal practical assessment
1 x musicianship / group harmony class assessment
1 x acting technical class assessment
2 x performance assessments to professional panel of experts
1 x assignment portfolio
Year 3
2 x formal technical assessments (professional audition format to include dance, acting, singing)
2 x performance assessments to professional panel of experts
1 x independent project (approx. 6,000 words written with professional creative element)
Note: The final project in the 3rd year is designed to give the student the opportunity to research, develop and evaluate a ‘signature’ performance piece and/ or exploratory study demonstrating individual interests, strengths and artistic identity as students work to “define self as artist”.
For support, practical technique units include on-going informal assessment to support feedback, and feedforwards mechanisms, with the final assessment point at the conclusion of semester one and semester two to ensure adequate achievement to proceed to the next level of study. In year three the final technical assessment is offered at the end of semester one in order to enable students to take full advantage of professional experiences within the intensive performance work, auditions and professional workshops which are a feature of the final period of study.
Performance work is also assessed through on-going assessment of rehearsal processes and company involvement.