Curriculum Intent

“Art is not a mirror held up to reality

but a hammer with which to shape it.”
― Bertolt Brecht

The origins of Drama dates back thousands of years and the word 'Drama' comes from the Greek meaning “to do, or to act”. It is therefore no surprise that the subject is deep and rich in history, content and theory. The core content of the curriculum teaches students about the structure of Drama and the vast subject of Theatre. Students explore a variety of genres, styles, techniques, scripts and practitioners to build a deeper understanding of the subject. The curriculum intends to give students a lifelong love of theatre, film and television and it will equip students with the knowledge they need to interrogate, understand and engage with the construction and creation of what they are consuming.

The curriculum aims to enable students to actively participate in performing a varied range of styles and genres. It involves students replicating, constructing and including them into their repertoire, whilst studying them academically. Students will analyse, evaluate and justify the impact that their well-considered decisions have played in their practical work. Each key stage is designed and scaffolded carefully to provide a strong foundation on which to build the next. The skills learned in year 7 are built upon, developed and honed to ensure that by the time students embark upon their final pathways, they feel confidently equipped with the skills and techniques necessary to make a success of their next destination.

The curriculum offers a richness of literature for students in which they can better understand the past, other cultures, and the lived experiences of others through the careful exploration of it. Drama is synonymous with storytelling. At the Suthers we believe that all students should be challenged to express themselves creatively and to have a platform where they can tell their story. With the very nature of the subject, Drama encourages well-rounded, compassionate and confident learners that can adapt and respond thoughtfully. Topics challenge, inform and develop their understanding of community and the wider world so they will be proud of their heritage and understand the experiences of others.

The Suthers Drama curriculum teaches our students:

  • To analyse and evaluate performance and design; skills crucial to the understanding of the subject.
  • The impact theatre can have on culture and how it can empower an audience.
  • That seeing live theatre is important, we believe that it is vital for students to see professional performances, so that they can become inspired by the work of others and so they can reap the benefit of a culturally enriching experience.
  • Skills for life, such as vocal and body language skills for public speaking, confidence, dedication and teamwork which will underpin their futures.
  • How to harness their creativity and express themselves through performance and design.

To access the curriculum plans for each year group, please use the links at the side of this page.

If a year group link is not available you can contact our Drama Team at contact@suthersschool.co.uk where they will get back to you with further information.

March 2024

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