Drama offers a unique opportunity to work in ways not encountered in most other subjects. Students work collaboratively in groups of varying sizes and learn to share ideas and listen to others. Central to the subject is the reflective and evaluative nature of the programmes of study and the ways of working which encourage independent thinking and learning. The strong bias towards practical work enables students to work creatively and expressively. Texts and stimuli are changed every year to meet the needs, skills and interest of the students and to reflect the changing world.

Key Stage 3

For many students Drama is a new and challenging subject at KS3. Students undertake an induction course, introducing them to the basic skills required in Drama, which are then developed through a variety of topics, some of which are issue-based. Students learn and develop interpersonal and presentation skills that enable them to excel in other aspects of their curriculum.  Students are also equipped with an understanding of devising strategies and how to explore a text in order to prepare for GCSE Drama.

Key Stage 4

The focus at KS4 is on acquiring the skills required for production and performance. Practical exploration of both scripted and devised work is a key element in understanding these skills and students learn how drama is created, including the acting and staging skills required to put a piece of drama on the stage. Students explore themes, ideas and plays in a practical way and will be required to perform in a play or contribute a design element to a production such as lighting, costume or sound. The written element of the work reflects on the practical work undertaken and students are also required to write an evaluation of a live performance. Students are given the chance to attend at least one trip to experience live theatre and are encouraged to independently see more work to help them develop their interest and skills.

Key Stage 5

KS5 demands practical, creative and communication skills as students develop their ability to create drama and theatre. The course involves the practical exploration of texts chosen by their teachers to match the group’s skills and interests. Students also have to create their own work from given stimuli and have the opportunity to stage this beyond school, such as at Poole Lighthouse. Work takes place to develop group and solo performances to be shown as part of the practical exam. Writing about the process of exploring texts, developing work and extending their powers of analysis to become informed critics underpins the intellectual aspect of the course.

Extra Curricular Provision

We offer students the opportunity to visit the theatre both locally and in London. We also invite theatre companies and professionals to lead workshops within school to further students’ skills and enjoyment of the subject. We have clubs for different projects running at lunchtimes and after school. All students are encouraged to participate in school productions, and in activities in the community. Rehearsal spaces are always available for students to develop their work either independently or with support.