AREAS
Key Stage 4
GCSE Drama candidates use year 10 to complete devised work based both on improvisation and published scripts. Objects, music, poems and pictures are all employed as stimuli. Tasks set include changing emotions, confidence-building, character study, themes, comparison between writers, line learning, understanding performance directions and delivery of monologues. Pupils also study a full play, make a video of their work and complete a portfolio. For homework there is a series of short tasks designed to inform practical work. Progress is tested against all four National Curriculum assessment objectives.
The first half of year 11 is devoted to preparation for GCSE Paper I, and involves regular workshops and the completion of an individual portfolio including responses, development of ideas and evaluation. Portfolios are assessed at regular intervals with specific deadlines. After the Spring half-term, pupils prepare for Paper II, a rehearsed performance in the presence of a visiting examiner. This takes place in late April/early May, and completes the GCSE entry.
The curriculum is outstanding and meets the needs of students extremely well. A wide range of vocational courses and work-related opportunities at Key Stage 4 offer helpful pathways into training and employment. Provision for personal, health, social and citizenship education is excellent and supports students' personal development successfully as well as providing exciting opportunities for developing enterprise and work-related skills.
OFSTED- December 2007
