Drama
Head of Department: Ms K.A. Francis
All pupils in First to Third Forms take Drama; it is then available as an
option at GCSE, while A Level Theatre Studies is offered in the Sixth Form.
Drama is taught in The Stahl Studios and in The Stahl Rehearsal Room. The
Stahl Theatre also provides a fabulous resource for rehearsals, and is where
examined practical units take place.
There are currently four Drama teachers, some of whom also teach English.
In addition, the Stahl technical staff play a crucial role in the teaching
of technical skills in the curriculum and in extra-curricular activities.
Drama Scholarships are awarded at 13+.
The department is staffed by:
Mr A.J.H. Boag MA
Mr M. Burlington BA
Ms. K.A. Francis BA
Mr. A.D. Martens BA
Course content
First to Third Form
All pupils from First to Third Form take Drama, where they are introduced to elements of performance, including collaboration, communication and self-awareness, using a range of drama activities and exercises. Skills acquired include use of voice, improvisation, interpretation of play texts and devised work. Lessons are practically focused; with the support of their teacher they are encouraged to analyse each other's work. An environment of support, encouragement and open-mindedness is promoted in class. Third Form Pupils opting to take Drama in the Trinity Quarter will be involved in a performance in The Stahl Theatre at the end of their year.
GCSE
We currently teach the WJEC Board specification which provides maximum opportunities for a stimulating experience of dramatic activities. Pupils produce one improvised and one text-based performance, each with an evaluation, examined internally and externally respectively. There is a study of one set text which is examined at the end of the Fifth Form. Although most pupils opt for the acting element, there is an opportunity to be examined as a lighting, sound or costume designer, or director.
A Level
The structure of the specification at each level, AS and A2, is one written unit (60%) and one practical unit (40%). At AS, the written unit consists of the study of one set play and of live productions seen during the year. At A2, the written unit requires the study of a further two set plays.
In the practical units, both AS and A2, students present a performance,
working in a group. Students choose one of the following skills: acting, directing,
costume design, mask design, set design or lighting and sound.