Drama

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Member of staff

Mrs A. Doherty: Curriculum Lead Drama
Miss S. Read: Teacher of Performing Arts

Intent

At South Wigston High School, our inclusive drama curriculum is designed to inspire all learners to develop a passion for performance and a deep appreciation of theatre. Drama is a powerful medium for personal growth, enabling students to build self-confidence, creativity, and collaborative skills. Through drama, learners learn to express themselves, take creative risks, and reflect on the world around them.

Our curriculum is underpinned by the school’s core values of Ambition, Determination, and Respect:

Ambition: Learners are encouraged to explore bold ideas and develop imaginative performances.

Determination: Learners are supported to persevere through rehearsal and refine their work with resilience.

Respect: Learners learn to value the contributions of others, work inclusively, and engage with diverse perspectives.

The curriculum is carefully designed to build the foundational knowledge and skills required for success in Edexcel GCSE Drama, with clear progression from KS3 to KS4. It ensures that all learners, regardless of background or ability, can access and succeed in drama.

 Implementation

Drama is taught through a sequenced and inclusive programme of study that develops pupils’ skills in four key learning foci (LFs):

• LF1: Creating and developing ideas
• LF2: Applying theatrical skills
• LF3: Demonstrating knowledge and understanding of theatre-making
• LF4: Analysing and evaluating performance
  
  

Key Stage 3

• Participate in workshops and rehearsals, where they apply and refine vocal and physical skills.
• Explore theatre history and genres, from classical to contemporary styles.
• Take part in Live Theatre Evaluation, where they reflect on professional performances and their own work.

Assessment is based on the KS3 Drama Grade Descriptors, which use a four-tier model, Emerging, Advancing, Deepening, and Mastering, to track progress and provide clear, supportive feedback.

At Key Stage 4, learners follow the Edexcel GCSE Drama course, building on their KS3 foundation and developing skills in devising, performing, and evaluating theatre. 

 Impact

By the end of Key Stage 3, learners will have:

• Developed a secure understanding of dramatic techniques and performance styles.
• Gained confidence in performing, collaborating, and reflecting on their work.
• Built the analytical and evaluative skills needed to succeed in GCSE Drama and beyond.

Our drama curriculum ensures that learners leave KS3 with the ambition to challenge themselves creatively, the determination to improve through rehearsal and feedback, and the respect to work inclusively and appreciate the power of performance.

At Key Stage 4, learners demonstrate increasing independence, creativity, and critical thinking, with some choosing to pursue drama further in education or as a career. The curriculum not only prepares them for academic success but also equips them with transferable skills for life. 

 Key Stage 3 Progress Statements

ks3 drama progress statements .pdf