Celebrating Drama in Year 7

Celebrating Drama in Year 7 by Mr. Ben and Ms. Jade

At Nadeen School, we are excited to introduce our secondary learners to the world of drama as part of our innovative creative curriculum, which aligns with our commitment to High-Performance Learning (HPL). This new approach immerses students in a variety of creative disciplines, including art, music, computer technology, film, and design, fostering the development of advanced cognitive skills and creative thinking. By incorporating drama into their education for the first time, we aim to inspire self-expression, collaboration, and confidence, while cultivating key HPL attributes such as critical thinking, empathy, and intellectual agility. Through engaging activities and performance-based projects, students will explore storytelling, character development, and teamwork—learning to persevere, reflect, and communicate effectively. This approach not only lays the foundation for essential life skills but also nurtures students as advanced performers and thinkers, helping them thrive in a global, interconnected world while fostering a deep love for the arts.

 

Drama in schools is essential because it allows students to explore their creativity, build empathy, and develop critical life skills such as communication, collaboration, and confidence. It provides a safe space for learners to express themselves, take risks, and understand the world from different perspectives—skills that are invaluable both on and off the stage.

– by Mr Ben Pickering – Teacher

 

Our bespoke drama curriculum at Nadeen School is crafted to teach students the core fundamentals of drama, emphasising the importance of facial expressions and body language in effective performance. Through a series of engaging lessons, learners will explore key drama techniques such as thought tracking, cross-cutting, and freeze frames, helping them to enhance their short drama pieces. Story mapping and dialogue building will be integral tools, guiding students as they shape their narratives and characters. Additionally, students will delve into the world of physical theatre, learning how to use their bodies creatively to convey emotion, movement, and meaning in dynamic and visually compelling ways. This holistic approach aims to build both technical skill and confidence, fostering a deep appreciation for the art of drama.

 

I really like drama because I get to share my ideas collaboratively and think more creatively.

– by Aiden, Year 7 learner 

 

 

 

As learners progress, our curriculum expands to cover a broader range of theatrical styles, introducing them to the expressive world of mime and pantomime, followed by an exploration of the rich traditions of Greek and Elizabethan theatre. These units offer insight into the historical and cultural foundations of drama, encouraging students to appreciate the evolution of performance art across different eras while fostering many High-Performance Learning (HPL) attributes such as intellectual playfulness and flexible thinking, creating a deep curiosity for understanding human expression. The journey culminates with a study of world theatre, where students will explore diverse global performance traditions, broadening their understanding of storytelling and theatrical techniques from various cultures. This cultivates empathy, global awareness, and a spirit of collaboration—key HPL values.

We believe that this comprehensive and bespoke curriculum nurtures creativity and supports our learners in thriving as they build their confidence, resilience, and appreciation for the arts, developing a wide array of dramatic skills. In just a short time, our learners are already demonstrating significant growth in both confidence and collaborative abilities. Through activities that require teamwork, improvisation, and performance, they are developing critical HPL skills such as strategic planning, perseverance, and the ability to communicate effectively in diverse situations. Many have stepped out of their comfort zones and are embracing leadership roles, showcasing their capacity for risk-taking and agility in unfamiliar situations. The supportive environment in our drama space fosters a sense of belonging and creativity, enabling students to confidently share their perspectives, engage in reflective practice, and work together to bring their stories to life—hallmarks of high-performing learners.

In Drama, I can express myself more and I feel more confident just to be me and I know that I can be very funny.

– by Amelia, Year 7 learner