The Drama course is incorporated into the English curriculum and is intended to engage and encourage students in becoming confident performers and designers with the skills they need for a bright and successful future. The course builds in as much opportunity as possible for students to do what they like best – participate in performance. All students will also devise drama. Texts are explored practically with students developing their skills as a performer and a designer through class and homework tasks.
There will be at least one theatre trip each year of the course (more if possible!). Students are encouraged to take part in any performance opportunities that arise to prepare them for the Performing Arts courses they may decide to take in the future.
Students will be creating a range of products from scripted to devised performances. Most assessment will be practical based but small written & design tasks will be completed in lesson as well as for homework. These will be assessed by their teacher and will form part of the report system. Parents will be invited to some of the final performance work.
A least one trip to see professional theatre works performed live will be arranged throughout the year. At year 7 and 8 these are optional but highly recommended. The cost is kept as reasonable as possible, with each trip cost approximately £25 – £30 (including transport and tickets). Students may be encouraged to source various props/costumes from home to enhance their drama pieces.
This course provides a sound basis for the study of GCSE Drama by covering the core components of performing, devising and appreciating both their own and others work. The course provides opportunities to develop the key skills of working with others, solving problems and presentation that are invaluable to the GCSE course.
There is a rich diversity of activities to get involved in from musical theatre, showcases, lunch time events and after school as well as visits to the West End and local theatre and cultural events. There are also opportunities to get involved in other extra-curricular opportunities such as working to develop work for an annual showcase of final exam work. Students are encouraged to be involved in at least one of these activities and at least one performance.
Course contact: Mrs Wiltshire hayley.wiltshire@biddenham.beds.sch.uk