Drama
CONTEXT
Drama nurtures the development of the whole child. At Fairfield, pupils not only gain the skills needed to succeed in GCSE Drama, but also build essential soft skills that enhance their future employability. Through the study of drama, pupils also gain a deeper understanding of the world around them as they explore issues and put themselves in the shoes of others.
Our intent is to provide a rich and comprehensive curriculum that fosters creativity, expression, and personal development in all our students. We aim to offer a diverse range of theatrical experiences that inspire learners to engage with different cultures, perspectives, issues and styles of performance.
Curriculum
Our curriculum is carefully designed to ensure progression in knowledge and skills across key stages, allowing students to explore a wide variety of dramatic forms and contexts. Pupils are taught skills in acting, devising and analysing theatre, all of which are the fundamental skills required for GCSE Drama. We also teach pupils about careers in drama including performance and backstage roles. We believe in the power of drama to develop confidence, resilience, empathy, communication, negotiation and critical thinking skills, as well as promoting teamwork and collaboration.
In KS3 Drama we aim to instil a combination of declarative, procedural and disciplinary knowledge. Declarative knowledge includes understanding the definitions regarding vocal skills, physical skills, spatial skills, Drama strategies and facts about various styles, genres and practitioners. Procedural knowledge includes understanding how to use vocal skills, physical skills, spatial skills and Drama strategies in various styles with flair and creativity. Disciplinary knowledge includes being able to recognise the features of a strong performance and being about the “Think like a Dramatist” and analyse and evaluate their own work and that of others.
Our curriculum is designed to foster creativity, confidence and communication. We aim to help pupils discover new skills and talents by teaching them how to effectively rehearse, create, perform and analyse drama. We encourage a lifelong love of drama and aim to develop an understanding of theatre history, theatrical conventions, forms and style. We create a challenging and supportive atmosphere within the classroom where pupils feel comfortable to experiment with ideas, take risks and receive critical appraisal. Personal Development and cultural education is carefully embedded within our curriculum. Pupils learn about performances from other times and cultures, explore feelings, moral and ethical issues and the surrounding world. They use their imaginations, be creative, reflect on their own and others work and work collectively applying their social skills.
