I'm really disappointed to read the posts where GCSE Dance is not taken seriously by dancers. I've been teaching the subject to Year 8+, at a local high school. The course is open to pupils from three other secondary schools in addition to the host school. As a dance professional, and qualified secondary school teacher, I feel that when the course is undertaken outside school hours, the students attend because they are interested in dance. This ensures enjoyable and productive sessions. When the course is studied during curriculum time, there are always students who think the course is a perfect opportunity to be as obstructive as possible. I dream of the year that my cohort will all have an interest in dance. One year, I was excited when I had a Royal Ballet Associate commence the course. Sadly, she didn't stay long (just one term), as she was so upset with the interruptions and behaviour displayed by the pupils who weren't interested.
I really enjoy the AQA syllabus-the proposed new syllabus involves more dance and less theory than the current course. I always allow my students to choose the dance genre they wish for their solo and own group choreography (unit 4).
The set dance is a contemporary piece(which is really enjoyable to teach. I favour Impulse. For the other group piece (unit 3), led by the teacher, I tend to encourage contemporary/creative dance.
Also, I plan sufficient time during the lessons, for rehearsals and preparation for the exam.
In my opinion It's s great course for young dancers to express themselves, socialise, be involved in problem solving activities and experience the necessary workload required for their other GCSE subjects.
I hope you're able to reach a satisfactory outcome.