The Drama department was established, in its current form, as a separate subject, in 1999. Prior to that time the subject had only been taught under the umbrella of the English department. The English department continue to teach aspects of drama within their subject. Drama, Music, History, Geography and RE make up the Liberal Arts Faculty.

Since its conception, the department has gone from strength to strength. The department prides itself on its results; with learners regularly achieving 100% in the BTEC Level 2 Performing Arts Course.

At key stage 3, pupils are taught for 1 x 60 minute lesson per week, in mixed ability classes. In addition, the ALN year 7 learners receive 1x60 minute lesson per fortnight.

At key stage 4, it is offered as an option choice, and has an allocation of 4 x 60 minute lessons, where the learners follow the BTEC Level 2 Performing Arts syllabus.

At each key stage the Drama schemes of work are taught in a predominantly practical way, where possible; almost entirely so at key stage 3.
At key stage 4 lessons are delivered in workshop form, beginning with a warm-up appropriate to the nature and demands of the ensuing exercises and activities. Learners are expected to participate fully in all activities.

The department has a strong tradition of extra-curricular activities and learners are offered a wide range of theatrical experiences; with musicals, plays and workshop performances to perform in. The most recent of these being, ‘Grease’ in 2008 and ‘Hairspray’ in 2011. In addition, Christmas concerts are held in our partnership church – Elim family Church, where the drama dept. take leading roles, and the dept supports the Welsh department in the Urdd Eisteddfodau.

There are regular theatre trips offered across the age range. They are arranged to enhance the learners’ experience of live theatre in various genres. It is also important for the synoptic element of the examination courses.

There is one full time specialist and two part time non-specialist teachers within the department.