Overview 

GCSE Drama develops students as performers, creators and critical thinkers. Students explore theatre practically and theoretically through devising, scripted performance, practitioner study and analysis of live theatre. 

Drama encourages creativity, independence, resilience and artistic confidence whilst preparing students for further study and careers within the creative industries. 

Curriculum Intent 

The GCSE Drama curriculum aims to: 

• Develop skilled and imaginative performers. 
• Build understanding of theatre practitioners and styles. 
• Foster reflective and analytical thinking. 
• Encourage independent artistic decision-making. 
• Develop resilience, collaboration and leadership skills. 
• Promote cultural engagement through live theatre experiences. 
• Support progression into further education and creative careers. 

Curriculum Implementation 

Teaching Approach 

Learning takes place through: 

• Workshops 
• Rehearsals 
• Devising projects 
• Script analysis 
• Performance opportunities 
• Practical exploration 
• Written examination preparation 

Sequencing of Learning 

Year 10 

• Introduction to GCSE Drama, devising, theatre practitioners, performance skills and set text study. TIE performance to primary school 

Year 11 

• Scripted performance, live theatre evaluation, examination preparation and refinement of practical work. 

Assessment 

Students are assessed through: 

• Devised Performance 
• Devising Log 
• Scripted Performance 
• Written Examination 
• Mock Examinations 
• Rehearsal Process 
• Reflection and Evaluation 

Curriculum Impact 

Success is measured through: 

• GCSE outcomes 
• Student engagement 
• High-quality practical work 
• Student reflection 
• Performance opportunities 
• Progression to A Level and Performing Arts pathways 
• Increased confidence and communication skills 

Curriculum Structure 

Key Stage 4 

Year	Topics / Units	Key Knowledge & Skills
10	Devising; Practitioners; Performance Skills; Set Text Study	Characterisation; rehearsal techniques; devising; interpretation; analysis; collaboration
11	Scripted Performance; Live Theatre Evaluation; Revision and Examination Preparation	Evaluation; theatre analysis; practitioner application; exam technique; performance refinement.

Exam Board and Specification Link 

AQA GCSE Drama (8261) 

Enrichment 

• School Productions 
• GCSE Performance Evenings 
• Theatre Trips 
• Workshops with Industry Practitioners 
• National Theatre Projects 
• Drama Leadership Opportunities