Drama

Through creative exploration of performance and design elements, the study of drama engages, inspires and challenges students, immersing them in the world of storytelling as an art form. Students will explore approaches to drama influenced by practitioners from a range of cultural backgrounds, with an appreciation of the importance and relevance of theatre in society.  

Drama at Rye Hills Academy leads students on a journey of creativity and self-expression through the exploration of core knowledge and skills.   

Students are encouraged to develop their skills as an actor, directors and designers through the creation of original and pre-published performance material. As well as developing subject-specific skills, drama provides students with the opportunity to build a range of transferable skills, from effective communication to problem-solving.  

Across the key stage, students develop acting, directorial and design skills through a range of practical workshops, analysis of live theatre and interpretation seminars. Students perform using a range of drama conventions, mediums and strategies of increasing complexity.  

Students enjoy drama because it allows them to be whoever they want to be. It gives them a voice and an opportunity to share how they view the world.  Students develop the ability to work collaboratively and are inspired to become storytellers for their audience.

At Rye Hills we cherish the opportunity to explore performing in many different ways. We provide lots of opportunities outside of the classroom for pupils to come along, join in and have fun. We have a glee club where pupils can learn the skills of performing and telling a story through singing and movement. A drama club where pupils can develop their confidence and social skills, as well as performance skills. We also offer the opportunity to take part in a whole school production. This includes many technical and backstage roles for pupils who would prefer to stay off the stage, as well as many roles on the stage, making sure all who want to can excel and feel confident in their skills.

Curriculum information

Year

Term 1

Term 2

Term 3

Interpreting Theatre  
Practically explore the play Hard to Swallow working as an actor, director and designer 
Devising Theatre  
Create your own performance material using stylistic qualities of a selected practitioner.

Interpreting Theatre  
As an audience member, analyse and evaluate a live performance 
Devising Theatre 
Create your own performance material using stylistic qualities of a selected practitioner.

Interpreting Theatre 
Create a vision for performance  
Analyse a live theatre performance
Performing from a Text  
Rehearse and present various extracts from pre-published plays.

Component 1: Devising Theatre. Students may choose to be assessed on Acting or a Design element 
Create and perform a devised piece based on chosen stimulus material  
Document the process through a Portfolio of Supporting Evidence  
Evaluate the process and final outcomes of performance.

Component 3: Interpreting Theatre 
Evaluate live theatre seen throughout the course  
Component 2: Performing from a Text. Students may choose to be assessed on Acting or a Design element  
Perform two extracts from a play or realise a design for the actors within the play.

Component 3: Interpreting Theatre 
Practically explore a contemporary play from an actor, director’s and a designer’s perspective, prior to realising vision in a written response.

Drama is a great way to express yourself and build confidence. It’s also a good place to explore your own ideas and communication skills.

Year 10 student

I love drama! It’s so much fun and you’re free to be and act the way you want and express different things. Another thing that’s amazing is all the drama clubs and productions to join and take part in.

Year 10 student