From September, we’re delighted to offer Drama as a subject for pupils in years 7 and 10. They can continue their drama journey as they progress through school and go on to study it at GCSE and A Level.
Our newly formed Drama Department at Amherst School will provide pupils with the skills to develop their confidence, leadership, communication, creativity and self-discipline; all of which are key in helping to shape them into emotionally intelligent, well-rounded individuals who are confident to explore and question the world around them.
Through creative practical and theory-based lessons, we aim to inspire pupils to reach beyond their potential, both through classroom learning and co-curricular activities that will develop their knowledge and understanding of a range of playwrights and theatre practitioners.
Throughout their time studying Drama, pupils will be exposed to a wide range of topics that are either drama-specific or focus on key topics relevant to the society we live in. They will also be given opportunities to develop their skills in specific areas that they choose to focus on.
In Years 7-9, the structure, content and assessment of the subject is reflective of the GCSE course and builds year on year, preparing pupils for the Drama GCSE option.
Year 10 and 11 pupils will study AQA GCSE Drama and over two years will continue to build on practical and theoretical knowledge gained previously, as well as learning many new drama skills.
There is a smooth transition from GCSE to A Level Drama in which students further develop their drama skills. The focus will be to encourage students to become independent and mature learners through the studying and detailed exploration of key theatre practitioners, play texts and themes.
Drama is a subject that naturally lends itself to the development and continued growth of our pupils’ cultural capital. They will have opportunities to visit a variety of live theatre performances and participate in workshops with professional theatre practitioners as well as cross-foundation productions, a drama club and LAMDA examinations. With these opportunities, pupils learn to appreciate and value each other and a variety of cultures from around the world, leading to the well-rounded individuals of the future.
For further information about the course content for GCSE and A Level drama, please click here.