Introduction to Drama
Drama at Plashet begins with the learner and the ideas and creativity they bring to the school. We aim to inspire and nurture ability so that all students can become confident, articulate, independent learners and reflective thinkers.
The school recognises the value of drama as a learning medium and we also believe strongly that drama is a powerful arts discipline with its own intellectual rigour. Through the curriculum and teaching methodology, pupils are encouraged to explore their understanding of cultural and stylistic contexts, challenge stereotypes, value aesthetic understanding and knowledge through practical and social skills and learn to constructively evaluate and criticise work within a supportive and secure environment.
KS3
Starting with Year 7, learners in Key Stage 3 will have the opportunity to explore a range of themes and dramatic conventions such as Commedia dell Arte and physical theatre, Greek Theatre, Shakespeare and monologues, as well as the work of contemporary theatre companies such as Trestle and Frantic. We aim to teach drama which enables our girls to be confident and empathetic.
Lunch time clubs are offered as well as the chance to perform in school plays.
Exam board and Syllabus: Eduqas Drama
GCSE Drama is a very popular subject at Plashet, offering students the chance of an in-depth curriculum with highly qualified teachers. The qualification, offered by Eduqas, allows learners to study the subject in-depth with links to English Language, Humanities and the STEM subjects. We are in partnership with the Old Vic Theatre, alongside the Donmar and Barbican. Our Old Vic project offers 4 free shows a year plus workshops with professionals in school and we are one of only 40 schools in London to offer this. We have links with Rose Bruford and London Metropolitan Universities to ensure our girls have access to post 16 studies and beyond. We also have excellent links with local arts partners such as Theatre Royal Stratford and Stratford Circus.
Our excellent facilities offer the girls the chance to become theatre makers, taking on the challenges of lighting, sound and stage management. The curriculum gives the chance to study the work of leading practitioners such as Stanislavski, Brecht, Artaud and Berkoff as well as modern theatre makers like Trestle, Frantic and Knee High.
How students are assessed at the end of the course
Students will complete the following three components:
- Non exam assessment – Devising Theatre (40%)
- Non exam assessment – Performing from a Text (20%)
- Written examination – Interpreting Theatre (40%)