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Drama
Drama in the Junior School is a powerful tool for developing confidence, creativity, and communication skills. Through role-playing and storytelling, pupils enhance their imagination, teamwork, and emotional intelligence, while also improving literacy and comprehension.
At Westbourne School, Drama is delivered across Reception, Key Stage 1, and Key Stage 2, using a progressive approach that enhances pupils’ confidence, creativity, and communication skills. Drama lessons incorporate a variety of techniques, including role-playing, storytelling, movement, and improvisation. These activities foster a strong foundation in self-expression and teamwork while also supporting literacy and comprehension development.
Key Stage 1. Reception, Year 1, and Year 2
Drama is taught through structured weekly lessons that encourage imaginative play and exploration of emotions, characters, and narratives. Through engaging in role-play and performances, pupils develop key skills in both individual and group settings.
Key Stage 2. Years 3 to 6
Drama lessons build on earlier skills, incorporating script work, improvisation, devising, and performance. Pupils are encouraged to develop a deeper understanding of character, plot, and emotion, while also refining their vocal and physical performance techniques.
Drama is taught using a structured approach to ensure the effective development of core skills:
- Exploration & Imagination: Pupils explore characters, stories, and situations through role-play, movement, and voice work.
- Skill Development: Children build their confidence in using dramatic techniques such as improvisation, facial expression, and body language.
- Collaboration: Pupils work together in groups to devise and rehearse performances, fostering teamwork and communication.
- Performance: Pupils showcase their skills through live performances, either as individuals or in groups, allowing them to demonstrate their understanding of dramatic techniques.
- Assessment & Reflection: Pupils are assessed based on their performance, creative ideas, and teamwork, with feedback given to help them grow and improve.
Pupils progress through Drama lessons at different rates based on their individual abilities. In Key Stage 1, pupils focus on building confidence, communication skills, and basic performance techniques. As they move into Key Stage 2, pupils engage in more complex tasks, such as script work, improvisation, and devising performances. In the Summer Term, pupils work towards preparing for their group LAMDA (London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art) exams, which assess their vocal skills, performance techniques, and understanding of characters.
Drama lessons foster a wide range of skills, including:
- Performance & Communication: Expressive voice work, clear articulation, and confident stage presence.
- Creativity & Improvisation: Developing original ideas, thinking on their feet, and problem-solving in performance.
- Collaboration & Teamwork: Working effectively in groups to devise and perform pieces.
- Interpretation & Analysis: Understanding scripts, character motivations, and emotional dynamics.
- Physical & Visual Storytelling: Using body language, movement, and facial expression to convey meaning.
Confidence & Resilience: Overcoming stage fright, receiving constructive feedback, and developing resilience.
