All pupils are taught Drama in Years 7 to 8. In May of Year 8, teacher assessments of pupils’ Key Stage 3 knowledge, understanding and skills take place. From Year 9, pupils may opt to take Drama at GCSE level.

Drama in Years 7 to 8
Pupils benefit from a broad introduction to Drama and work on developing a range of performance based skills. In Year 7, pupils study for the National Curriculum requirements of Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream and learn general Drama techniques, as well as using Drama to explore social issues such as bullying. In Year 8, pupils examine the social issues surrounding racism and, working with the English department we teach Much Ado About Nothing, in preparation for SATs. In Year 9, pupils study a range of topics relating to general theatre production and a number of plays, including Blood Brothers.

GCSE Drama from Year 9
At GCSE level more written work and coursework comes into play, but the essence of our drama course remains centred on creativity and the development of personal and interpersonal communication skills. Bertolt Brecht’s Caucasian Chalk Circle will be studied and themes of war and society will be explored through the medium of Drama. Pupils will also create and present a performance as part of their GCSE examination.

GCSE assessment
Work will be assessed via coursework and examination. Coursework continues throughout Years 10 and 11, the GCSE examination takes place either in Year 10 or Year 11, depending upon individual student preferences and learning needs. Coursework (half written and half practical) accounts for 60% of the available marks and 40% of the final mark will be based upon practical examination.

Enrichment activities
Drama is an enriching activity, developing confidence, teamwork, creativity, communication and negotiation skills - all valuable assets throughout life. We offer many extracurricular activities to enhance the learning experience, these would include our Drama Club, an opportunity to learn (and gain a certificate in) lighting and the prospect of joining the Raw Talent Theatre Company: a year 10 to 13 company that performs regularly throughout the school region.

Beyond GCSE
Sixth form students have the opportunity to take Theatre Studies at AS and A2 level, or as an International Baccalaureate subject.

Beyond school
Many students will go on to study Drama, Theatre or Dance at university or drama school which can lead to employment in theatre and television.