Drama

Aims

Drama is taught from Year 7 until Year 9 after which GCSE and AS/A2 courses are offered. The spotlight is on performance skills, rehearsal skills, basic technical skills and group skills. However the emphasis is focused very much on learning through pleasure and although the work may be hard, it can be enormous fun. The Department puts a strong emphasis on interactive group skills, focusing on positive feedback, constructive criticism, respect for others, co-operation, and group problem solving. This work develops good working practice and confidence, which are transferable skills that are invaluable in the workplace.

Key Stage 3

Pupils are exposed to a variety of skills and theme based units which allow them to build and develop their drama techniques whilst at the same time developing their creative imagination in a supportive environment. Over the three years pupils are exposed to a variety of theatre forms and are encouraged to develop positive group skills and personal confidence. These three years build a strong foundation for work at GCSE and A Level.

GCSE

This two-year course encourages pupils to develop:

• A response to a range of play texts and an appreciation of the way in which playwrights achieve their effects and communicate their intentions to an audience
• An awareness of social, historical and cultural contexts through an exploration of plays and styles
• Increased self and group awareness and the ability to evaluate and appreciate the work of others
• The skills of creativity, self-confidence, concentration, communication and time-management

AS and A Level

This two year course will encourage pupils to develop:

• Knowledge and understanding of the social, historical and cultural contexts of Drama through detailed study of texts and the work of practitioners
• The ability to respond critically and sensitively to a range of texts and theatre in performance through studying and attending a variety of theatrical performances in different periods and styles
• The acquisition of practical performance skills as appropriate to their dramatic intentions
• The ability to make connections between different theatre practice and dramatic forms and comment analytically upon their significance.

During GCSE and A Level pupils go out of school on a variety of theatre visits and workshops. Theatre companies and working practitioners are invited into the school to offer advice to our pupils. Pupils are also encouraged to watch and evaluate the work of other drama groups within the school.

Facilities

• Two drama rehearsal rooms
• Adaptable stage space with lighting and sound equipment
• Well equipped wardrobe and props store.

Extra Curricular

During the year we offer two main school productions. These productions involve the Art,Textiles and Music Departments who work together with pupils to create sets, costumes and live music. We offer lunchtime drama activities that focus on encouraging KS3 pupils. During the school year pupils have plenty of opportunities to practice their drama skills, ranging from reading at the school carol service to performing within their year group or in the school production, or preparing for the National Youth Theatre auditions; whatever the task the work is always carried out in an atmosphere of enthusiasm and commitment and the confidence that pupils gain from the experience is invaluable.

Staffing

• Mrs A Asbury Dip LAMDA, BA Hull, GTP (Head of Department)
• Mrs C Ullyart BA Goldsmiths, MA Leeds, PGCE