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Studying At The Spires College

Drama

Drama/Performing Arts

  • Hours taught per fortnight (KS3): 2
  • Hours taught per fortnight (KS4): 5

The Drama curriculum explores a wide range of performance techniques and styles, and provides students with the knowledge and skills required to become creatively articulate practitioners. At KS3 students develop a solid understanding of form and structure of performance by studying a range of texts and creating devised performance material. The development of performance skills such as characterisation, movement and voice are a focus alongside drama techniques such as still image, thought tapping and action narration. The units studied provide a range of opportunities for students to become confident and thoughtful performers, capable of continuing with the subject whilst developing an interest in theatre that will transcend their time at the college. During Year 9, the development of style and structure is explored through a range of theatre practitioners including Bertolt Brecht and Frantic Assembly. A series of workshops introduces students to the practitioners’ ideology where they learn to log and assess the practical application of techniques and skills developed. The KS4 curriculum introduces more complex ideas and a greater range of technical language, and focusses on more mature themes and texts. The practical interpretation of text continues to be a focus with the exploration of three contrasting plays and development of devising techniques and set briefs.

Beyond the classroom there are a range of opportunities to enhance the curriculum including Key Stage 3 Drama Club, Playwriting Club, National Theatre Connections Festival and a whole college production. Students are invited on a range of trips to the theatre each year, including plays and musicals in Torquay, Bristol, Exeter, Plymouth and London.