Students will study at least four schemes of work over the entire year, one of which will be a play text, while another will tackle personal, social or health issues. Some topics include drama roles, character and plot creation, and theatrical genres and styles.

In the IGCSE Drama course in Key Stage 4, students will develop their performance skills individually and in groups and better understand the role of the actor, director and designer when creating a piece of theatre. They will also gain valuable knowledge in understanding of repertoire, devising dramatic material and improving their acting skills.

Drama is offered up to full A level in Key Stage 5. Students will lewrn how to use techniques for sound and lighting, as well as stage craft, to produce devised pieces for examination performance. There is also the study of literature and dramatic techniques which enable students to gain an in-depth understanding of drama and theatre as well as improving their acting skills.

Besides the usual Drama curriculum, students have the opportunity to participate or get involved in a series of events that can teach them more about the different stages of organising a show or a memorable performance, or they can participate in special Drama trips.

Secondary Production
Every year, pupils can get involved in the ‘Secondary Production’ CCA, a unique Co-curricular activity through which pupils can get involved in the performance or technical side of things. A range of CCA’s connected to the ‘Secondary Production’ includes performance (acting, dance/singing), costumes, set, props and music (the band).

The Secondary Drama ISTA trip
The yearly Secondary Drama International Schools Theatre Association (ISTA) trip is always hugely successful, enjoyable, and a great learning experience for all students. During this educational trip, they learn to work together as an ensemble and collaborate with students worldwide. We send groups of Secondary Students to ISTA Festivals around Europe every year.

London Theatre Experience
On this trip, pupils can watch up to four professional shows, work with the cast and explore London. The trip will offer Key Stage 4 and 5 students the chance to work with professionals. It is an experience for any students interested in Drama and Music outside of the curriculum, those studying Drama or Music GCSE, or students still interested in Drama despite not choosing it as a subject at school. It gives students the unique opportunity to work with students and professionals from all around the world.

LAMDA Speaking in Public – The Speaking in Public exams prepare our learners for a task that daunts so many people. Learners write their own speeches, researching the topics, creating visual aids and presenting them from memory (although they can use notecards, if they prefer). As they progress they will develop the ability to speak clearly and project their voice for an audience. They’ll discover the techniques they require to engage an audience and to structure their speech effectively.
At the higher graders, learners will be asked to create an impromptu speech with minimal preparation.

Key Stage 3 Music focuses on acquiring skills so that students can actively participate in solo and ensemble performances and compositions. All students will be able to sing and learn classroom instruments, such as the ukulele, guitar and keyboard. Furthermore, they will specialise in an orchestral instrument from the woodwind, brass or string families.

Music technology and interactive software enhance practical learning and improve the three main activities of performing, composing, and listening. Students will study the different features and musical elements used in various classical, world, blues and pop music. Over the three years of Key Stage 3, students will learn how to use melody, chords and rhythm to create music in various styles, including using classical structures, pop and rock songwriting and improvising.

In the GCSE Music course, students learn how to improve their performing skills and gain insight into how music is constructed, from the initial ideas to the finished product. We follow the Edexcel GCSE Music syllabus.

Music is offered to full A level following the Edexcel course. Students learn about context and the elements of music, in order to enhance and develop musical interests and skills in composing, performing and analysis skills.

In addition to the study of Music as an academic subject, there is a wide range of peripatetic music lessons on offer to all students in a variety of instruments. Concerts and recitals run throughout the year and which showcase the music talents and skills for solo and ensemble pieces. There is also the annual COBIS Music trip, where students have the opportunity to compete against and perform infront of students from other COBIS schools worldwide.