Drama

What is our curriculum intent?

Drama and theatre enable students to learn about a variety of fictional characters and how to perform these to an audience. Our intention is to give students a safe space to express themselves and have a deeper understanding of how to use vocal and physical skills to portray different characters. Drama is taught using a variety of methods both theoretically and physically in a way which is accessible to all pupils. We aim to support students in developing their communication and reading skills, as well as their confidence when performing in front of a large group of people. These skills are important tools for life after Valence.

How does the delivery of our curriculum differ between the pathways?

In the Simmonds pathway, we intend to support students in developing their confidence to express themselves, perform different characters, and perform in front of a camera. We adopt a cross-curricular approach with Drama and English and use Drama lessons to reinforce the aspects of English coursework students are completing.

In the Hawking pathway, we encourage students to have the confidence to perform in front of a camera and a large group of people, which they often achieve in the annual Shakespeare Schools Festival. As part of the English Language GCSE, students are required to complete a Spoken Language Endorsement, which enhances their confidence with public speaking and encourages them to demonstrate and share their passion. Drama supports students with this challenge, by providing them with opportunities to practise public speaking. If there is an appropriate cohort, GCSE Drama will be available for that group.

Do our students have access to learning opportunities outside the classroom?

In drama, we encourage a wide range of trips to enhance students’ learning experiences. These trips include visits to the Globe Theatre and watching plays in theatres both in London and locally. We also participate in the Shakespeare Schools Festival, where students are given the opportunity to perform in front of an audience, thereby improving their knowledge of Shakespeare’s language and building their confidence on stage or behind the scenes e.g. working on lighting and sound.