Learning

Drama

Text

The Drama Department is a creative, inclusive and ambitious space where students are encouraged to explore ideas, develop confidence and express themselves through performance and theoretical learning. We value collaboration, resilience and imagination, helping students to find their voice. Through practical exploration and reflection, students are challenged to think critically, work as part of an ensemble and engage with a wide range of theatrical styles and ideas, supporting their growth both as performers and as individuals.

The Drama Department is a place where creativity thrives, ideas take shape and every student is encouraged to step beyond their comfort zone. More than a subject, Drama is a space to grow, to be heard and to discover individual potential. We are proud to nurture confident, expressive young people, equipping them with lifelong skills that prepare them to succeed in further education and beyond, whether in or out of the arts.

Overview of the Curriculum (KS3–KS5)

At Key Stage 3, students are introduced to a wide range of drama skills, theatrical styles and practitioners through practical exploration and performance-based learning. At Key Stage 4, students build on these foundations by developing performance, devising and evaluative theoretical skills in preparation for their GCSE Drama examinations. At Key Stage 5, students engage in advanced performance work, interpretation of texts and independent creative projects, preparing them for A Level study as well as further education or careers in the arts and beyond.

Assessment and Feedback Approach

Assessment in Drama is ongoing and performance-based, with a focus on practical outcomes, reflective evaluation and written analysis. Students receive regular verbal and written feedback to support progress, encourage self-reflection and develop performance and specialist written skills over time.

Staff List and Teacher Specialisms

The Drama Department is staffed by experienced and passionate teachers with specialisms in performance, directing, devising, theatre studies and practitioner-led approaches. Staff are committed to supporting students’ creative development and fostering a love of theatre. Our two specialist Drama teachers are Maxine Cohen and Jo Burberry.

Examples of Classroom Learning and Student Work

Lessons include practical workshops, scripted and devised performances, group collaboration and the exploration of professional theatre work. Students regularly showcase their work through in-class performances, assessments and examinations, as well as informal presentations. Written work is produced throughout the course in preparation for final assessments.

Resources, Revision Guides & Homework Expectations

Students are supported with a range of resources, including scripts, revision guides, digital learning materials and exemplar work. Homework may include script learning, rehearsal preparation, research tasks, written evaluations and development plans, as well as revision for theory-led assessments.

Extra-Curricular Clubs and Enrichment Opportunities

The department offers a range of enrichment opportunities, including drama clubs, school productions, theatre trips, workshops with visiting practitioners and performance events. These opportunities allow students to develop their skills and confidence beyond the classroom.

Career Pathways Linked to the Subject

Drama supports a wide range of career pathways and is highly valued by universities and employers alike. Students may progress to further and higher education courses in Drama, Theatre Studies, Performing Arts, Acting, Directing and related creative subjects. The transferable skills developed through Drama — including confidence, communication, critical thinking, creativity and teamwork — are also highly sought after in careers such as teaching, law, media, marketing, business, arts administration and across the wider creative industries.

Department Achievements

The department is proud of its students’ performance outcomes, successful productions, positive examination results and strong participation in extra-curricular activities. Students consistently demonstrate creativity, commitment and professionalism in their work.

Contact Information

For further information about the Drama Department, please contact the school office or the Head of Drama, Maxine Cohen, via the school’s main email address or through our social media accounts.

Instagram: @kdhsdrama

TikTok: @KDHSDramaDept

Twitter: @kdhsdrama