Drama at De La Salle School

Drama is a thriving department at De La Salle, housed in a purpose-built performance studio, with modern lighting and sound equipment, and a set and costume store. It has close links with the Music Department, and the other Expressive Arts within the school, and caters for all interests within performance, with many students able to showcase their capabilities in acting, dancing and singing.

KS3 provision

A wide and varied curriculum is delivered to year 7, 8 and 9. The students study a breadth of content during key stage 3, studying plays from different styles, genres and time periods, and developing their devising and improvisation skills. We study themes from different periods of history and strongly support the school’s provision of SMSC with units studying social, moral, spiritual and cultural issues. We also teach costume, make-up and lighting design.

The students are assessed throughout the year in all year groups.

KS4 provision

At GCSE we study the EDUQAS syllabus and the students study a balance between theory and performance.

The students are assessed through practical exams in both devised and scripted work and this work is supported by written coursework and controlled assessment. The students also study a play and live performance and they are assessed on their understanding of these in a written exam.

The students visit the theatre throughout the course. As this is an option subject there is an expectation that these students will take part in the many extra-curricular activities that take place in the Drama department.

Extra-Curricular provision

There is a major school production at the school most years and this is supported by many of the students. The department also produces work that supports the liturgical delivery within the school. We have links with the local primary schools through the delivery of a nativity at Christmas. There are different opportunities for all students to get involved both on stage and behind the scenes in large and small-scale events throughout the year.