Drama
'In Drama, an upper-ability student is characterised by their "accomplished" technical skills and a "highly developed" realisation of artistic intentions. These students demonstrate an outstanding vision for their work, supported by detailed research that links insightfully to their chosen stimulus or performance text. Whether performing or designing, they exhibit sophisticated control—such as accomplished vocal and physical techniques for actors or an excellent attention to detail and understanding of production elements for designers—to consistently create a specific mood and atmosphere for their audience. Furthermore, they excel in the creative process by documenting a clear progression of ideas in their portfolio and providing high-level analysis and evaluation of both their own work and the work of others.'
Music
'In Music, a high-ability student is characterised by their capacity to perform technically demanding music with a high degree of confidence, fluency, and expressive sensitivity, demonstrating sophisticated technical control and stylistic awareness. In their compositions, they exhibit creative depth and technical coherence, utilising a wide range of musical elements to develop effective ideas and structures that sustain interest through purposeful development. Furthermore, high-ability students demonstrate advanced aural perception and a deep understanding of musical language and contexts, allowing them to accurately identify complex elements and apply robust musical vocabulary to make convincing, critical judgements when evaluating both familiar and unfamiliar repertoire.'