The performing arts are one of the most vital subjects on any school’s curriculum. Their language is truly universal. Every culture
explores its passions and fears through drama, dance and music. Regardless of gender, ability and belief, students respond intuitively
to these modes of expression, and through them explore and communicate issues of morality and identity in a unique way, which enriches and
personalizes their education. Through drama we aim to enthuse in students a sense of their own capacity for expression, allowing them an
accessible and structured way to communicate ideas and feelings, which empower and validate their own experiences and views. Good drama
should strike a balance between the experimental, and a growing ability to shape and control the art form – gradually developing a sophisticated
and analytical vocabulary, with which to understand how it makes us think and feel. The social skills acquired during creative group work – decision making,
adaptability, negotiation, listening to options and the justification of your own ideas – are imperative to personal development and the rapidly changing
environment of the workplace.
Aims
Facilities and Resources
The beauty of drama is that it can happen anywhere at anytime with nothing but committed and focused individuals. We certainly have the students with passion and commitment. Our facilities in Drama are not brilliant however we do have the use of the use of a small an intimate hall for lessons and performances, as well as the additional space of an auditorium just a short walk from the school. We are currently building on our lighting and staging equipment and intend to have an all singing, all dancing portable stage equipped with lights and sounds in the not too distant future.Courses
Key Stage 3 Key stage 3 drama is intended to provide students; firstly with the knowledge and understanding that will allow them to access drama and produce focused and detailed work that will progress throughout the units. The units are organised in order to allow students to experience drama from varying angles and perspectives. Each unit stands on its own but should build skills which can then be transferred to other lessons and enhance their experience of drama.Drama at Key Stage 3
Key Stage 4 Cambridge IGCSE Drama is accepted by universities and employers as proof of knowledge and understanding of both the theory and practical application of drama. Through practical and theoretical study, the IGCSE Drama syllabus encourages students to understand and enjoy drama by:
Drama at Key Stage 4
Theatre Studies at IB At Sir James Henderson we are embarking on a very exciting journey. With the implementation of the IB comes some very exciting opportunities for students experience and develop in more areas than was previously possible. The Theatre IB makes students look at various theatre forms, their uses and how to practically realise these new skills. It is an exciting and challenging course.
Drama at Key Stage 5
What the Students Say
- “Within drama you can do everything, any idea is a theme to be explored! You can look at life from a completely different angle and from someone else’s point of view, it makes you question things, for example one day you’re a drag queen the next you’re an officer in the 1900’s British army!” Gabriele, Year 11
- “You get a lot out of drama; it helps you to become more confident, both in speech and written expression. It’s something that is really gratifying and provides you with a lot of satisfaction.” Giulia,Year 13
- “By pretending to be someone else, you can find out who you really are! You get to present a different side to yourself which is often unknown and unpredictable!” Alessia, member of the senior production Year 12
- “you can say things that you would otherwise be unable to say!” Philip, Year 10
- “Drama is a new experience of life!” Carolina,Year 13
- “It lets you escape, takes you out of your own life and allows you to create a whole new one, see things from another point of view!” Edward, Year 11
- “In drama we can be whoever we want and no one can say anything against it” Rebecca,Year 10
Calendar of the Year's Events