Drama

The curriculum at Key Stage 3 introduces pupils to a range of different drama topics. These range from Greek Theatre to Stage Combat. Our lessons are designed to help develop life skills such as public speaking which benefit all our pupils, but also to give a taste of the GCSE Drama curriculum which helps pupils make an informed choice when they decide their options.

Key Stage 4 includes three components which include practical and theoretical elements. Drama is an academically rigorous subject, with an emphasis on high standards in both performance and in the accompanying written work.

At KS5, the course inspires students to become independent theatre makers with the skills they need to go on to higher education, whether that is to study a course in drama and theatre or another subject. This qualification emphasises practical creativity, alongside research and theoretical understanding.

Students learn through experience, seeing theatre and making theatre for themselves. Students are introduced to a wide range of theatrical styles and contexts as they explore plays practically, devise and work on performances. They can choose to develop as a performer, designer (lighting, sound, set, costume, puppets), director or a combination of these.

The document linked below outlines how knowledge and skills are sequenced and developed throughout each year of the curriculum.

Drama Curriculum Outline 2026-27

Key Stage 3 (Years 7, 8 & 9)
Guided Learning: Two 1-hour lessons per fortnight
Independent Learning: 30 minutes of homework per week

Key Stage 4 (Years 10 & 11)
Qualification: GCSE Drama
Exam Board: AQA
Guided Learning: Four 1-hour lessons per fortnight
Independent Learning: 30-45 minutes of homework per week

Key Stage 5 (Years 12 & 13)
Qualification: A Level Drama & Theatre
Exam Board: AQA
Guided Learning: Nine 1-hour lessons per fortnight
Independent Learning: Up to 5 hours of homework per fortnight

Careers in Drama

Students can pursue Drama at a university or a specific Drama school such as the University of Creative Arts or RADA. We will support them with their applications, including the choice and preparation of audition pieces. Drama is extremely versatile. It is useful for a wide range of careers as it develops presentation and public speaking skills, builds confidence, leadership skills, develops empathy and the ability to debate, discuss and collaborate.

Career ideas: acting, broadcast presenter, community arts work, dramatherapy, journalism, runner, film/theatre director, stage/TV management, arts administration, choreography, media research, music producer, special effects technician, talent agent, education, recruitment, marketing and many more.

Click here to find out more about careers and pathways in Drama.

Drama Enrichment

Bi-annual Showcases that exhibit the breadth and range of talent within our MGS Community.
Two productions per year – both plays and musicals.
Opportunities to perform at school events and bespoke year group evenings.
Drama Club to develop small sketches and perform extracts to a class, the school or wider audience.
Opportunities to learn about and explore design elements in lessons and as part of the school’s ‘Sound and Light’ team.

Co-curricular Drama opportunities
Find out more about our co-curricular and enrichment opportunities in Drama.

KS3 and KS4 Drama Super Curriculum
Explore recommended reading, activities and enrichment opportunities beyond the classroom.

KS5 Drama Super Curriculum
Explore recommended reading, activities and enrichment opportunities to support A Level study.