Drama and Theatre Studies

“I like performing and enjoy working with different people in the group. When we show our work it is really exciting. I have begun to use more theatrical words when talking about the work we do and feel more confident about acting in front of my friends.”

Year 7 student

Drama is taught throughout the school and is a popular subject that focuses on students developing their social and dramatic skills. Through drama structures, students gain confidence by expressing their ideas and working with others in a positive environment.

Key Stage 3

Students are taught once per fortnight by a trained Drama teacher. Initially the focus is on encouraging students to trust each other and learn to work productively towards a deadline. They respond to a number of genres through the creative process including music, poetry and even mythology!

Key Stage 4

Students work from the published syllabus from Edexcel

Qualifications : GCSE : New GCSE from 2009 : Drama : Edexcel

30% Practical internally assessed- Drama exploration

30% Practical internally assessed-Drama text

40% Practical exam. Externally assessed

Key Stage 5

Students follow the AQA Drama and Theatre Studies course. http://web.aqa.org.uk/qual/gce/drama_theatre_new.php

AS:     

60% Theory paper on set text and live production seen

40% Practical, on chosen play (acting/costume/set/lighting)

A2:     

60% Theory paper on two set text of differing period

40% Practical, devised play (acting/costume/set/lighting)

Enrichment Opportunities

A Drama club runs once per week in lunchtime.

Students who have produced a particularly strong piece of work in lessons are encouraged to show it to an invited audience at lunchtime during an “Open Studio” presentation.

Students in Key Stage 4 and 5 regularly visit the theatre to further inform their experience of drama and theatre

Pat Andrews – Head of Faculty

Richard Giddings – Head of Drama

Charlotte Bodicoat – Teacher of Drama and Theatre Studies

Christine Giddings – Teacher of Drama and Theatre Studies

• Drama is perceived as a developmental subject at Bishop Stopford and is also used as a method of enhancing other areas of the curriculum. The skills we seek to enhance are not just acting/directing/lighting or sound based but has regard to the students whole being; increasing confidence and positive team working are central to our aims.