Year 7 – 9
Drama
Key Stage: KS3
At Hammersmith Academy, the Drama Department inspires students to develop a lifelong appreciation of theatre and the creative arts. We nurture bold, imaginative thinkers, instilling confidence and motivating them to express themselves creatively, think critically and engage meaningfully with the world.
Students are encouraged to be curious, committed learners who achieve their potential both in school and beyond, empowered to become confident communicators and active citizens.
Our Drama curriculum equips students with essential theatrical skills, from devising original performances to interpreting and performing published texts. They develop a rich understanding of character motivation, emotional complexity and stagecraft, learning to communicate meaning powerfully to an audience.
Students also refine their analytical and evaluative abilities by exploring themes, character dynamics and the playwright’s intentions. Through both practical and written work, they justify directorial and performance choices with insight and precision.
Beyond the stage, Drama cultivates key life skills such as confidence, public speaking, teamwork and leadership. The Drama classroom provides a supportive, dynamic environment where students can take creative risks, build resilience and grow as thoughtful, expressive individuals.
Throughout Key Stage 3, we challenge the misconception that Drama is only about acting. Lessons emphasise creativity, collaboration, reflection and critical thinking. Across all three years, students also strengthen their written communication through structured analytical responses using the PEE (Point, Evidence, Explanation) method — supporting success in both GCSE Drama and English.
Year-by-Year Curriculum
Year 7
Students begin by developing core performance skills – voice, movement and character creation – building confidence and teamwork through practical exploration.
Modules include:
- Introduction to Drama – Characters (Module 1)
- Melodrama and Pantomime (Module 2)
- Ernie’s Incredible Illucinations (Module 3)
- Abstract Theatre: The Japanese Tsunami (Module 4)
- Matilda (Module 5)
- Romeo and Juliet & EOY Prep (Module 6)
This foundational year introduces students to key techniques and performance conventions, encouraging creativity and clear communication.
Year 8
Students explore a range of theatrical styles and influential practitioners, broadening their understanding of performance and interpretation. They learn how different approaches can communicate meaning effectively to an audience.
Modules include:
- Blood Brothers (Module 1)
- Brecht and Political Theatre (Module 2)
- Bang Out of Order (Module 3)
- Asylum Seekers (Module 4)
- Naturalism and Stanislavski (Module 5)
- Monologues and Duologues (Module 6)
Lessons encourage students to combine creative experimentation with disciplined rehearsal and self-evaluation.
Year 9
In their final KS3 year, students take on more complex projects, preparing for GCSE Drama by developing sustained performances and deeper script analysis.
Modules include:
- Noughts and Crosses (Scripted) (Module 1)
- Noughts and Crosses (Devised and Scriptwriting) (Module 2)
- Mental Health – Theatre in Education (Module 3)
- Diverse Voices (Module 4)
- Acting for Camera (Module 5)
- Stage Design (Module 6)
Students refine their use of vocal and physical skills, explore the role of design and technical elements, and learn to respond critically to contemporary social themes through performance.
Skills Gained
- Creative expression and communication
- Teamwork, leadership and collaboration
- Analytical and evaluative thinking
- Confidence and public speaking
- Empathy and emotional intelligence
These skills empower students to become confident communicators, reflective learners and imaginative thinkers – qualities valued far beyond the stage.
Partnerships & Enrichment
Students benefit from Hammersmith Academy’s exceptional partnerships with leading cultural institutions, which provide workshops, performances and behind-the-scenes insights.
Current partnerships include:
- The Old Vic Theatre
- The Lyric Theatre
These experiences bring classroom learning to life, inspiring students to see Drama as both a form of self-expression and a pathway to real-world opportunity.
Potential Careers
Drama nurtures skills relevant to a wide range of careers, including:
Acting and Theatre Production | Film, Media and Broadcasting | Public Relations and Marketing | Law, Education and Psychology | Arts Management and Community Work
The confidence and communication skills developed through Drama are highly sought-after across creative and professional industries.
