“We must all do theatre, to find out who we are, and to discover who we could become” Augusto Boal

“Theatre is a form of knowledge; it should and can also be a means of transforming society. Theatre can help us build our future, rather than just waiting for it”

Augusto Boal

Click here for Drama Curriculum outline

Why do we study Drama?

Drama is a subject that encompasses a multitude of skills and disciplines from across the curriculum. Not only does Drama teach you about the world of theatre and performance, it also allows you to explore technical theatre and stage design. Drama students develop creativity, confidence, emotional intelligence, and resilience. Drama is the study of creatively exploring the world around you, and teaches students what it means to be human. Through Drama, students are given the chance to express themselves in ways they might not have been able to before, and gives students the opportunity to flourish and grow in both performance and their personal lives and beyond. Studying Drama at Studley High School, students can expect a well-rounded curriculum exploring the different pathways in Drama.

Drama programme of study at Key Stage 3 (Years 7-9)

In Key Stage Three, students will learn how to create both devised and scripted performances as part of a group, and explore a variety of dramatic styles and conventions. Students will explore how Drama has developed through history and how it differs in other cultures, and discover Drama as a form of storytelling and imagination, as well as developing performance skills through vocal and physical expression.

In Year 9, Drama students are introduced to the dramatic style of a number of different theatre companies and practitioners, learning how to use their techniques in practical work to move into the style of “non-naturalism” and create more “GCSE-style” performances.

Drama programme of study at Key Stage 4 (Years 10-11)

In Years 10 and 11, as part of GCSE Drama, students are provided with a stimulus, and work in small groups to devise a 10 minute performance for their first examination. Students are encouraged to work creatively and independently, without being directed by their teacher. Students will also prepare two scripted performances for a visiting examiner as well as study “An Inspector Calls” and critique some live theatre in preparation for their final written examination. Drama will also provide the transferable skills needed for a multitude of different subjects as they move into sixth form and college.

Homework expectations

Homework is set twice a half term at Key Stage Three and is often used to consolidate learning on the topic students are studying. This could be anything from learning lines, a quiz, a research task or short written task. For Key Stage Four, students are set homework weekly, and these range from attending rehearsals, conducting research for their acting performances, to revision tasks for the written examination.

How can parents and guardians support at home?

Encourage students to develop an interest in performance and theatre, as well as recognising the transferable skills that Drama has to offer. Parents can also support students by helping them learn lines, encourage their confidence when performing and assist with any written or research tasks that students are set.

Extra-curricular opportunities

We are extremely proud of our extra-curricular drama provision.  As well as helping to understand and explore different styles of acting and see live performances, these experiences help to foster a love of theatre and open students up to new experiences.  Across the academic year, such opportunities include:

  • Whole School Musical
  • Drama Club
  • Musical Theatre Club
  • Speech and Drama (LAMDA) lessons
  • Theatre trips