One Year Foundation
A one year course with focus on Drama School audition preparation, and performance, offering a Level 4 Diploma in Acting or Musical Theatre; a qualification equivalent to the first year of degree, supporting progression to University, Drama School, Professional development or employment in the creative industries.
Course Modules & Performances
- Audition Preparation
Students select a contemporary and classical monologue in preparation for Drama School auditions. The thorough rehearsal process consists of scene study, Alexander technique, animal study and audition technique. The regular voice work also introduces the year group to verbatim theatre, presenting, radio and voice-overs. We support the process using the methodologies of theatre practitioners Hagan, Meisner, Mitchell & Alfreds.
- Classical Acting Performance
Students perform in a full Shakespeare play to a live audience in a London Theatre. Previous productions include A Midsummer Night's Dream, Twelfth Night, The Winter's Tale, Julius Caesar and Titus Andronicus. Students will learn to analyse and perform Shakespearean text, using methods of practitioners Patsy Rosenburg, Cicely Berry, Barbara Houseman, Peter Brook and Peter Hall. Students will also undertake voice and movement work; Chekhov, Laban & Grotowski.
- Musical Theatre Performance
Students perform a musical to a live audience in a London Theatre. Previous productions include 9 to 5 The Musical, Spring Awakening, Sweeney Todd & Edges. Students will work on their singing technique, relevant dance styles and movement skills. The rehearsal process is supported by a thorough repertoire of 'Acting Through Song' methodologies.
Student Experience
Our Facilities
Individual Learning
Student Welfare
At our brand new drama school in Islington, we have eight studios, sprung floors, mirrored walls, sound proofing and a studio theatre. Excellent learning support, including Apple imacs and macbooks, large interactive whiteboards, filming, lighting, editing & recording suites and sound equipment.
Student Welfare
Individual Learning
Student Welfare
We have an excellent and necessary balance between 'care and support' and 'challenging and developing' our young people. Alongside our social and personal development programme, we have a trained on-site wellbeing team and access to further support when needed.
Individual Learning
Individual Learning
Individual Learning
All our students have an individual learning plan. They speak regularly with a member of the team on a one-to-one basis to check on their progress and wellbeing. It is also an opportunity to set personal goals for their short and long term future to help maintain motivation and progression.
Learning Resources
Individual Learning
Individual Learning
In addition to on-site libraries of plays, musicals and theory books, students have access to Drama Library Online, and Digital Theatre plus. They can search for material for their development or forthcoming auditions, and watch full performances from the Globe, RSC and National Theatre.
Opportunities
Additional Training
Additional Training
We have opportunities for interested students wanting additional learning experiences on the technical side of our theatre productions: lighting, sound, backstage, front of house or social media marketing. We also provide a handful of placements to gain invaluable experience as teaching assistants working with children through Bodens part-time performing arts school.
Additional Training
Additional Training
Additional Training
While it is not compulsory, some free reduced rate and private top-up classes are available for our current students in the evening after college. Alongside an opportunity to learn additional styles such as Tap dance, these classes suit students wanting to gain further experience both on and off the stage and screen, expanding their knowledge of practitioners, playwrights and repertoire.
Careers
Additional Training
Careers
Our one year course, consisting of excellent training in performing arts, also offers a wealth of transferable skills. Our graduates have gone on to work as performers, producers, directors, teachers, technicians and writers. The A-Level equivalent results have enabled previous students to change direction in their education, studying Law, Medicine and Psychology at University.
Alumni
Additional Training
Careers
At Bodens College, once a student, always a student. In addition to our ongoing support and advice throughout your future, our graduates always have access to free and low cost rehearsal spaces when required, to help develop their varying careers in the arts. They also keep access to a wealth of knowledge, texts and recorded performances, should they need them at any time.