Drama

At Key Stage 4, learners undertake the Edexcel BTEC Level 1/ Level 2 Tech Award in Performing Arts (Acting), completing three Components; Component 1 (Exploring the Performing Arts), Component 2 (Developing Skills and Techniques in
the Performing Arts) and Component 3 (Responding to a Brief). The Components will require regular attendance and a commitment to rehearsal and group work. Learners study a wide range of performance material, drawn from different time periods and cultures and often perform in a range of venues, including primary schools and outdoor spaces. Learners are expected to work through assignment briefs and complete a sequence of tasks to produce successful creative pieces. Thorough evaluation of performance pieces is also encouraged. Learners should consistently take a proactive approach and show independent learning skills and a strong growth mindset.

With a Tech Award, learners will:
• Gain a practical introduction to life and work in a specific sector, allowing them to get a taste for a sector to see if it is for them.
• Develop knowledge and technical/creative skills integral to roles within their chosen sector should they choose to pursue a career in it.
• Develop relevant sector-specific employability skills, for example: delivering to a brief, communication, research, and project management.
• Develop a range of knowledge, understanding and practical skills needed to progress to further learning, be it a Level 2 Technical certificate or a Level 3 programme such as A Levels, T Levels or BTEC Nationals.

Homework is issued regularly as part of each Component completion and will often include research on topics covered in class or evaluations on the performance process..

Dependant upon the cohort learners may undertake BTEC Tech Award in Performing Arts. This qualification is for learners interested in taking a hands-on course that will offer them an insight into what it is like to work in the performing arts sector. This course enables learners to develop the foundational skills that are integral to a wide range of roles (from performing to designing and directing) across the creative industries, including film and television, theatre, games, and advertising. Learners will receive a general introduction to the sector, crammed with opportunities to learn and try out new skills, techniques, and styles, allowing them to make an informed decision about their future learning and career.

The subject offers provision in both lunchtime and after school clubs on a Wednesday and students make use of time beyond the school day to additionally rehearse in small groups by arrangement with staff. Students have been involved in many projects, showcases and schemes locally, regionally and nationally and have been winners of The Royal Society of the Arts Design Briefs using theatre performance. Recent research projects based on oracy and pupil speaking have also taken place within the Department.

Showcases and theatres visits are organised as part of the school year and lessons often use modelled examples by professional theatre companies. Alumni from the Department have historically gone on to work at Bristol Old Vic, The Bristol Shakespeare Festival, Sony/EMI and several students have received further training at RADA, LIPA, The Royal Conservatoire of Scotland and the Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts in London.