Drama, Dance and Performance Arts

Drama and Dance, as a combined subject, is taught to all students in Years 7 to 9. Emphasis is placed on developing the student's ability to concentrate, work co-operatively in a group situation and to develop confidence. Students will develop knowledge of Drama and Dance to create their own works, and appreciate and analyse work of a professional standard.

Both Drama and Dance are offered as separate GCSE courses. The Drama course is predominantly practical, concentrating on individual and group development of acting skills in scripted and improvised drama. Students are assessed partly through coursework and mainly through practical tests at different stages. The Dance course is again a combination of largely practical work and theory including solo and group choreography and study of set works

Both Drama and Dance are offered as two-year A' levels. For Drama, the emphasis of the course is on practical work. Students will develop an understanding of theatrical trends and plays through practical exploration. The dance course develops technical and choreographic skills, knowledge of professional dances and introduces anatomy and dance notation.

Students studying these subjects will have the opportunity to participate in a number of theatre and dance trips.