Drama and Theatre Studies

Drama and Theatre Studies

In an increasingly competitive world, speech and communication skills are becoming more important.

Through studying Drama, pupils gain a greater sense of self-confidence and an increased capacity to express their opinions and beliefs to others. Studying Drama is not only for pupils who have a particular interest in theatre but for those who wish to take a subject that will develop communication, presentation and group working skills.


Year 7 and Year 8 | core subject

In the first two years, pupils gain a good understanding of a variety of Theatrical styles and develop skills through a range of activities that encourage teamwork and communication skills. The work in these two years covers Theatre styles, improvisation and devising original performances. In Year 7 pupils perform in the Year 7 Drama Festival at the end of the Summer Term.


Year 9 | option subject

By the third year Drama becomes an option subject, giving pupils a further year of studying Drama before making a decision about GCSE choices. In this year pupils study Theatre History and are introduced to a range of Theatrical styles and complete assessments that are based on the content of the IGCSE course.


Year 10 and 11, IGCSE | option subject

The Drama IGCSE course keeps the emphasis firmly on equipping pupils with a range of performance skills that are easily transferable to all areas of life. The practical nature of the course is reflected in assessments in scripted performance and devised Drama. Pupils will also explore the roles of Director and Theatre Designer. It is a demanding, creative and engaging course.

IGCSE REQUIREMENTS
– No specific academic requirements. Pupils must enjoy working with others and be prepared to rehearse extensively and independently. They should also be actively involved in School Drama productions. Pupils considering Drama should be achieving consistent marks of 7 and above in assessments.

EXAMINATION BOARD
– CIE IGCSE 0994 Drama


Sixth Form, A-Level | option subject

The Drama and Theatre Studies course is designed for students to explore plays from the point of view of a director, designer, performer and critic. It is a very practical course that will assess a student’s ability to interpret, realise and evaluate creative pieces of theatre.

A-LEVEL REQUIREMENTS
– Although not compulsory, it is useful to have taken (I)GCSE Drama as the course develops and enhances many of the skills acquired at that level. Participation in extra-curricular Drama is also beneficial.

EXAMINATION BOARD
– Edexcel A-Level 9DR0 Drama and Theatre Studies


John Lyon Success

– 100% of A-Level students achieved A*-B grades.
– 50% of GCSE pupils were awarded 9-7 grades.
– Usmaan Khan (OL2019) left John Lyon to read Drama and Theatre Studies at Royal Holloway, University of London.


Outside the Classroom

John Lyon pupils and students have many opportunities to practise their drama outside the classroom and extra-curricular clubs and activities are popular among all pupils, whether they study Art academically or not. Useful activities include Book and Film Club, Drama Club and National Theatre Connections.


Beyond School

Drama and Theatre Studies is about communication, confidence and teamwork. These are vital skills necessary in all careers. Studying drama will equip students with a set of rigorous analytical and communication skills that transfer to other areas of study. Students will also have acquired time management and leadership skills, giving the ability to work under pressure. Past students have gone on to study a range of different subjects.