The Drama curriculum sits at the very heart of learning, providing a variety of skills not only in the lessons itself but also skills necessary for future life. Our curriculum focuses on practical exploration of a variety of topics that students can enjoy inside and outside of the classroom as we aim to develop individuals who are confident members of our society, aware of their own worth and value, and able to creatively problem solve in order to make the changes necessary in their lives for their world to be a better place. We also work closely with the English department to collaborate and develop schemes of work that will provide students with the opportunity to explore texts, playwrights and poems in preparation for GCSE and English. Our department is a place of creativity, freedom and being able to express yourself through all the skills learnt in every lesson.

Key Stage 3 Drama

In year 7, 8 and 9 students will study a variety of topics aimed to guide them through learning the basics of acting and backstage design, from page to stage exploring a variety of scripts and written evaluation and analysis of live theatre. Students will also learn about various styles and genres of theatre such as naturalism, theatre in education and Artaud. At the end of every topic students will have the opportunity to devise their own performances, showing their creativity and imagination. Our aim is to provide opportunities for those who want to continue to study Drama, but also provide opportunities for those that don’t, to still develop as confident individuals in preparation for the future.   

Key Stage 4 Drama

In Year 10 and 11 students have the opportunity to take GCSE Drama, through the Eduqas exam board. This involves devising their own performance from a range of stimuli, a written portfolio and evaluation, a performance to an examiner from a scripted text and finally an exam based on the play ‘Noughts and Crosses’. Students will also go to see two pieces of live theatre which is also a requirement for the exam. Our aim for our Key stage 4 students is to provide them with the skills necessary to continue their studies in Drama, and if that is not the chosen path at least they will be leaving as confident and well rounded individuals with many other communication and team working skills.

Key Stage 5 Drama

In year 12 and 13 students have the opportunity to take A Level Drama, through the Eduqas exam board. This involves a reinterpretation of a script alongside a written creative log, a devised performance, a scripted performance, a written report and finally an exam. Students will explore three texts for their final exam, looking at both acting and design elements in theatre. They will also go to see a piece of live theatre as part of their exam. Our aim for Key Stage 5 students is to set them up for university, apprenticeships or the world of work, as confident individuals.      

Mrs Kimberley O’Brien