To study drama is to broaden the mind and extend our sympathies. Many of the skills learnt in this subject are transferable, such as memory and speaking skills, as well as the skills of analysis and evaluation. Students can expect to sharpen their communication and interpersonal skills, develop team spirit and learn to solve creative problems.
The Drama curriculum at Key Stage 3 allows pupils to share in the exploration of issues concerning humanity. Pupils will explore the foundations of drama, as well as drama from other cultures. They will also develop their understanding of citizenship and personal, social and health education. Pupils will have the opportunity to create their own drama as well as studying published works by various playwrights. Units at Key Stage 3 encourage pupils to build the skills and confidence necessary to study the subject at GCSE level. All pupils in Key Stage 3 at St Bede’s enjoy one Drama lesson per week.
The GCSE Drama course follows the Eduqas specification in which pupils complete three units of work over Years 10 and 11.
- Unit 1: Devised Practical Performance, Portfolio of Supporting Evidence and Evaluation (40%)
- Unit 2: Practical exam on a published play (20%)
- Unit 3: Terminal exam on a set text (40%)
GCSE Drama at St Bede’s follows the WJEC/Eduqas specification and allows students to engage in practical drama, both scripted and devised, as well as providing a sound foundation in drama theory, including units of work on Stanislavski, Brecht, Physical Theatre, Theatre in Education and Musical Theatre. GCSE Drama at St Bede’s will increase students’ confidence as well as teaching and enabling students to develop speaking skills and practical performance skills.
The Drama curriculum promotes Catholic Social Teaching in a variety of ways. The exploration of many of our units involves not only honing theatrical skills but also delving into narratives that highlight moral dilemmas and ethical considerations, encouraging students to analyse scenarios through a lens of compassion and virtue.
Engagement with various theatre practitioners provides insights into the diverse perspectives on humanity, emphasizing empathy and understanding. The critical examination of our key play texts plays like “Noughts and Crosses” and “Stone Cold” allows students to dissect complex societal issues, promoting thoughtful reflection and discussions on justice, equality, and the dignity of every individual. We hope the Drama curriculum at St. Bede’s goes beyond performance techniques; that it becomes a medium through which students actively understand and explore the key CST values of solidarity and life and dignity of the human person.
The Drama Curriculum at St Bede’s develops pupils’ Growth Mindset by encouraging them to embrace the challenge of performance and to persist through difficulties they may face be that performing in front of others, group work or stepping out of their comfort zone.
Resilience: Resilience is cultivated through the study of a wide array of subjects, including challenging scripts like “Noughts and Crosses” and “Stone Cold.” We want pupils to navigate the complexities within these narratives,
Independence: We promote independence by providing students with opportunities to take ownership of their creative journey through personal expression and self-directed projects.
Tenacity: We instil tenacity by challenging students to persist in the face of artistic challenges. Through tackling complex scripts, refining performance.
Transformational: St. Bede’s Catholic High School’s drama curriculum is transformational, guiding students on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth. Through exploration of diverse theatrical forms, from classical plays to contemporary works, students are challenged to examine societal norms, creating a transformative understanding of themselves and world.
Your world: By exploring a diverse range of theatrical subjects, from historical plays to contemporary works addressing societal issues, students gain insights into different perspectives and cultures. Through critical analysis and personal expression, the curriculum encourages students to engage with and comprehend the complexities of the world around them.
All pupils at Key Stages 3 and 4 are encouraged to get involved with extra-curricular drama and are provided opportunities to perform in public performances such as Performing Arts Showcases, whole school masses and assemblies and events in the community such as the St Anne’s Christmas Carol Service.
