Drama KS3

What will students study in Drama at KS3?

Year 7

In Year 7, students begin with Kick Start Drama, developing core skills such as teamwork, communication, confidence, vocal work, facial expression, body language, still images, thought tracking and characterisation. They then explore Skellig, bringing the story to life through practical performance. This is followed by Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, where students use characterisation to explore stereotypes such as teenagers and elderly people.

Later in the year, students complete Space Quest, learning new skills including unison and imaginative storytelling. The year concludes with The Tempest and A Midsummer Night’s Dream, where students modernise Shakespeare’s stories using techniques like mime and puppetry.

Year 8

In Year 8, students begin with Gorwood Manor, using soundscapes, ensemble work, unison and physical theatre to create atmosphere. They then move into Melodrama, exploring exaggerated characters inspired by Charlie Chaplin and silent films.

Next, students study Titanic, examining social status and events through techniques such as split‑scene, followed by script work based on Edward Scissorhands. They also explore Games, Screens and Online Bullying, contrasting virtual and real worlds using physical theatre.

The year ends with a Devised Project, where students create an original piece of theatre that showcases the full range of skills developed across KS3.

Year 9

What should my child do if they feel they are struggling in Drama?

We would encourage them to speak to their teacher, as we are here to help and support. It is important that students feel comfortable and relaxed in drama lessons so that they can work creatively and confidently.

How can I best support my child in Drama?

Encourage them to get involved with enrichment drama activities. Taking your child to see live performances is another effective way to foster a passion for the subject. Reading a range of plays can also obviously help to extend a student’s subject knowledge. Performing or presenting ideas can really help to build confidence and self-esteem and the readiness to speak in front of groups of people is a quality that goes well beyond the context of theatrical performance.