Drama
Aims
Our aim is to encourage and develop creativity, sensitivity and confidence in pupils of all abilities.
Drama is taught within the English curriculum from Year 7 onwards. Pupils are taught specific skills and techniques so that they have a solid basis of knowledge and expertise to enable them to progress to GCSE in Year 10.
GCSE Performing Arts students (AQA Double Award) are introduced to a wide range of performance disciplines that are essential to developing an understanding of the demands of the performing arts. By working as part of a group, pupils learn how performances are put together from the initial ideas, through planning and rehearsals, to the final performance in front of an audience.
By the time pupils reach Year 10 they are asked to draw upon their past drama/dance/music experiences and take on leading roles and responsibilities for their own performance. They form their own production company, appoint a director and choose the play. If pupils prefer to work back stage, then they can get involved in the technical aspects of theatre: lighting, sound, costumes, makeup or set design.
We offer extra-curricular drama as a great way to have fun, make new friends, learn new skills, develop confidence and perform in front of an audience. Pupils from all year groups can choose to take part in the college production that takes place each year at the Haverhill Arts Centre.
The popular school production always has a large cast and gives pupils a chance to work with others outside their own year group. They also benefit from the experience of working in a professional theatre which attracts a wide audience from our local community.
Head of Department – Wendy D Howarth, BA (HONS)
