Drama
The schemes of work in Years 7 to 9 aim to equip the students with building blocks to communicate, collaborate and create. The lessons are skills based and aim to sharpen the imagination, engage the mind, raise the confidence and train the body and voice as effective tools to communicate in a variety of contexts.
The Middle School Play (for Years 7–9) takes place in the Summer Term and is an opportunity for pupils to consolidate the skills acquired in Drama lessons by taking part in a major production as a performer or member of the backstage crew.
Lessons:
In Year 7, the techniques covered will include: freeze framing, stage movement, approaching scripted text, mime and creative movement, chorus work and improvisation.
In Year 8, the techniques covered will include: creating a role, non-verbal communication, developing improvisational skills, chorus work and developing scripted work.
In Year 9, pupils will continue working on collaboration and devising. There will also be some opportunity to work with scripts and develop characterisation. Dialogue and monologue will be focused on in one module.
Performing Arts Scholarships are available at 11+ entry.
Music
Music is an art form encountered by every single person every day, often without realisation.
It is a constant source of enrichment throughout life and we aim to develop the student’s understanding of music through a broad curriculum which will enable them to more fully understand and appreciate music from a wide range of ages and cultures.
In addition, the study of music has been proven to enhance the academic potential of students as well as developing discreet transferable skills.
Aims:
Our lessons for pupils in years 7 to 9 are centred on listening, composition and performance, with all the projects incorporating these elements.
Students learn about a variety of different musical styles and eras of music through highly practical schemes of work that develop instrumental as well as analytical skills.
Singing is a key feature of our lessons and students have access to a wide range of keyboard and percussion instruments as well as excellent music technology resources which further enhance their learning.
