Drama is a well-established subject in the curriculum at Key Stage 3 and it is a popular option at GCSE and A level. The two drama studios are well equipped with stage lighting and full black-out facilities. A new computerised lighting board has recently been bought as well as the recent purchase of a sound mixer desk, speakers and microphones. Extra-curricular activities include the production of two large cast school plays a year; one in the autumn term and one in the summer term. A year 7 drama club is organised by year 12 students.

In years 7 and 8 drama is taught to all girls and provides the basis of skills and knowledge for those wishing to pursue the subject at a higher level. The department aims to develop creative expression and communication, co-operative group work and the development of confidence through performance. Currently in year 9, drama is taught as a short course of 10 weeks.

The GCSE course develops students’ skills in group improvisation, vocal expression and use of language, movement and gesture, devising scenes for performance, the creative exploration of play texts and evaluative portfolio writing. There is also an option to develop design skills for drama. The course is a combination of teacher assessed practical and written coursework plus a final externally assessed performance exam. Theatre visits are integral to the course.

The AS/A2 course develops the creativity, skills and knowledge established at GCSE. It includes the practical study and performance of play texts, play direction, stage history, devising original plays; the study of practitioners, drama processes and regular theatre visits which broaden the students’ experience of drama.

Course Content

AS

1. Exploration of drama and theatre: the practical study of two plays. Continual teacher/examiner assessment of practical drama and analytical writing.
2. Text in performance A practical examination of acting or design skills in a production of a play and the performance of either a monologue or a dialogue. Externally assessed.

A2

1. Exploration of dramatic performance: the making and performing of a devised piece of theatre - assessed by teacher/examiner and externally moderated.
2. Text in context: written examination based on the study of two plays.

Learning Methods and Assessment

In practical workshops individual and group skills are explored and developed.

AS and A2

Students approach their study of this subject through a combination of practical workshops, theatre visits, seminars and independent study. A considerable amount of reading and essay writing is required of the students.

Expectations of Students

AS and A2

Visits to a wide variety of theatre performances are an obligatory requirement for this course. Most of these take place in the evenings to avoid missing lessons in other subjects. Each visit will cost approximately £20-£25. Students must attend theatre visits, rehearsals and examination preparation sessions outside of normal lessons. Students are expected to complete weekly homeworks related to the work in class.

Careers Implications

As well as for continuing the subject to a higher level, students have found drama and theatre studies to be a valuable qualification for any subject requiring communication skills. The creative skills acquired are also easily transferable to a range of subjects and future employment.