Drama School

Drama School: Building confidence and exploring genres

Drama is taught in classes from Years 5 to 8 by a specialist teacher. Children explore the different genres of drama, including mime, improvisation and text. Shakespeare is introduced in Year 5. We aim to give pupils an insight into theatrical forms and to build their own confidence and interest. In Years 7 and 8 public speaking and debating are introduced.  

Drama is also used in other lessons in the form of role-play and staged conversations and readings.

All children have the chance to be in annual productions, which have recently included Aladdin, Seussical, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Mary Poppins, Shrek, Matilda and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. Trips to professional theatre productions are arranged during the year and pupils have the chance to access workshops given by West End Theatre professionals. In the Pre-prep and Juniors Department pupils all take part in annual Nativity Plays. 

LAMDA, which offers children life-long skills in communication and performance and boosts their confidence is very popular with the children. Exams session are held in school with children regularly achieving high marks in exams up to grade 6. 

Children who are particularly interested in drama can take weekly LAMDA lessons. The London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art offers graded exams in drama from Years 2 to 8, which encourage children to develop their skills and knowledge. Currently over a hundred pupils are involved in these, from the Introductory Grades to Grade 5.

The Drama Masterclass is a Gifted and Talented extension class for Year 8 pupils with a particular interest in drama, which also prepares candidates for senior school scholarship auditions.  

PERFORMANCE OPPORTUNITIES

Nursery and Pre-Prep Nativity productions
Junior Nativity Production
A large scale Middles Production
A large scale Senior Production
Annual Stand Up Comedy and Review Show for Junior and Prep 
LAMDA Performance events
Play in a Day