Drama pupils explore and develop a variety of styles of creative communication throughout Key Stage 3. Acting and expressive vocal skills, body language, freeze frames, script study, improvisation, creative character writing, storytelling, story writing, various dance styles and choreography, theatrical movement, synchronicity, monologues, dialogues, pantomime and design work are all part of the Drama programme.
Subject:
Drama
Levels Taught:
KS3
GCSE/KS4
Staff:
Mrs. A. Quinn (HOD)
Mrs. S. Fall
Mrs. A. O’Halloran
KS3:
(Subject/Topic Content)
Across Key Stage Three, pupils are introduced to a wide range of dramatic strategies and performance styles. As a subject, Drama gives pupils a platform to develop their confidence and creativity, as well as fostering skills in teamwork, problem-solving and verbal and non-verbal communication.
Drama at Key Stage 3 is all about learning by doing. At Cullybackey College, all KS3 pupils enjoy three 35-minute Drama lessons every fortnight. Pupils work together, explore their creativity, and develop important teamwork and communication skills. Through fun and practical activities, they begin to build a strong understanding of Drama as both a creative art form and a life skill.
In Drama, pupils learn to use their voice, movement, gestures, and facial expressions through acting, mime, dance drama, and improvisation. They gain confidence in expressing and managing their thoughts and feelings while working in a safe, supportive environment.
At Cullybackey College, we encourage every student to find their voice, take creative risks, and discover that stepping outside your comfort zone helps you to embrace new experiences and challenge yourself.
What We Study
Year 8
- Introduction to Drama
- Mime
- History of Theatre
- All About Me: Monologues
- Improvisation
Year 9
- Characterisation
- Commedia dell’arte
- Mask Work
- Advert Theatre
Year 10
- Physical Theatre
- Improvisation & Script Writing
- Devised Work
- What to Expect at GCSE
KS3:
(Additional Links)
Drama-BBC Bitesize: http://www.bbc.co.uk/education/subjects/zmsvr82
Games and Drama Activities: http://www.dramaresource.com>tag>key-stage-3
https://www.pinterest.ca.uk
GCSE/KS4:
(Subject/Topic Content)
CCEA GCSE Drama offers students a dynamic blend of performance, design, and critical thinking, fostering creativity, collaboration, and confidence. It is assessed through three components: Devised Performance, Scripted Performance, and a written exam exploring drama theory and context.
The CCEA GCSE Drama specification is designed to motivate and inspire students by developing their skills in performance, design, and dramatic analysis. It supports the Northern Ireland Curriculum at Key Stage 4 and encourages learners to become confident communicators, independent thinkers, and creative collaborators.
Annually, our KS4 Drama students attend ‘A Day with Bruiser’ workshops at The MAC theatre and attend live theatre performances throughout the year, as well as putting on their own performances within school.
Course Structure
Students follow a linear qualification, meaning all assessment takes place at the end of the course. The specification is divided into three components:
Component 1: Devised Performance
- Students create and perform an original piece of drama, either as performers or designers.
Component 2: Scripted Performance
- Students present a performance from a published play, choosing either acting or design.
Component 3: Knowledge and Understanding of Drama
- A written exam exploring drama terminology, performance techniques, and the social, historical, and cultural context of a set text. At Cullybackey College we study Blood Brothers.
Students choose one of two creative pathways:
- Performance (Acting)
- Design (Costume, Lighting, Multimedia, Set, or Sound)
This flexibility allows learners to explore drama through their preferred medium, whether on stage or behind the scenes.
GCSE Skills Development
Through both practical and theoretical components, students develop:
- Creative thinking and problem-solving
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Presentation and performance skills
- Analytical and evaluative abilities
- Understanding of dramatic texts and contexts
It also nurtures transferable skills valuable in careers involving communication, creativity, and teamwork.
GCSE/KS4:
(Additional Links)
GCSE Drama-BBC Bitesize: https://www.bbc.co.uk>bitesize>subjects>zbckjxs
Careers in Drama: https://www.allaboutcareers.com>careers>career-path/acting-drama
https://ccea.org.uk/key-stage-4/gcse/subjects/gcse-drama-2017