Drama
Our Drama department inspires students to become confident performers, directors and informed theatre makers. Through a blend of practical exploration, performance work and theoretical study, learners develop a deep understanding of dramatic styles, key practitioners, and the role of theatre in society.
Curriculum Intent
At Poole High School, our Drama curriculum places creativity, self-expression and collaboration at the heart of learning. We aim to develop confident, resilient and reflective students who can communicate effectively, think critically and empathise with others. Through Drama, students are encouraged to explore different perspectives, cultures and experiences, building their understanding of the wider world while developing valuable interpersonal skills.
Across Key Stage 3, students engage in a wide range of theatrical experiences, including improvisation, script work, devising, character development and performance. They explore a variety of theatre styles, genres and practitioners, while developing skills in performance, collaboration and evaluation. Students are encouraged to take creative risks, express their ideas with confidence and work effectively as part of an ensemble.
Drama provides opportunities for students to develop not only their performance skills but also their confidence, resilience, leadership and communication. Through practical exploration and reflection, students learn to present ideas, solve problems creatively and respond thoughtfully to the work of others. At Poole High School, we strive to create an inclusive and supportive environment where every student can flourish, develop a lifelong appreciation of the performing arts and gain skills that will benefit them far beyond the classroom.
Key Stage 3
Drama is a vibrant and engaging subject that helps students develop as confident individuals and effective members of a community. Throughout Key Stage 3, students work collaboratively to create, rehearse and perform a range of scripted and devised pieces inspired by a variety of stimuli. Through these practical experiences, they develop creativity, communication, teamwork and problem-solving skills, while learning to reflect on and evaluate their own work and the work of others. We aim to nurture confident, empathetic and resilient young people who can work successfully with a wide range of personalities and are well prepared for the challenges of the future workplace.
Alongside practical performance work, students develop an appreciation and understanding of the art of theatre. They explore a variety of dramatic techniques, theatrical styles and influential practitioners, applying these approaches to their own performances. By studying both live and recorded productions, students gain inspiration from professional theatre and deepen their understanding of how performance can communicate ideas, emotions and stories to an audience.
Students are also encouraged to extend their learning beyond the classroom through a range of extra-curricular opportunities, including drama clubs, performances and whole-school productions. These experiences allow students to further develop their skills, confidence and passion for the performing arts while becoming active members of our thriving school community.
Key Stage 4
GCSE Drama is an exciting and creative course for students who enjoy performing, exploring theatre and bringing ideas to life on stage. The course provides opportunities to create original and imaginative performances while developing a deeper understanding of how drama communicates meaning to an audience. Students explore a range of play texts and theatrical styles, considering how performances can be shaped through acting, directing and design, allowing them to express their creativity and individuality.
Through practical workshops, rehearsals and performance work, students develop their skills as performers, creators and evaluators. They learn to analyse and interpret texts, collaborate effectively with others and reflect critically on their own work and the work of professionals. Students also have the opportunity to experience live theatre, using these experiences to inform and inspire their own creative practice.
Beyond performance, GCSE Drama helps students build a wide range of transferable skills that are highly valued by colleges, universities and employers. These include confidence, communication, teamwork, resilience, creativity, leadership and problem-solving. Whether students aspire to a future in the performing arts or simply wish to develop skills that will support them in any career pathway, GCSE Drama offers a rewarding and enriching experience.
Coursework - 60% of total marks
Practical coursework provides students with the opportunity to develop their creativity, collaboration and performance skills. In Devising Drama, students create and perform an original piece of theatre inspired by a range of stimuli, including music, images, news stories and other creative sources, drawing on different theatrical styles and practitioners to shape their work. In Texts in Practice, students work individually, in pairs or as part of a group to rehearse and perform extracts from published play scripts, experimenting with a variety of performance techniques to communicate meaning and create the desired impact on an audience.
Examination - 40% of total marks
The exam tests students’ understanding of theatre and performance through three sections: Section A – Theatre Roles, which explores the different responsibilities and contributions of those involved in creating theatre; Section B – Set Text Study, where students analyse and evaluate Blood Brothers; and Section C – Live Theatre Review, which requires students to evaluate a live theatre performance they have seen, considering how theatrical elements are used to create meaning and engage an audience.
