To help keep all pupils safe, please ensure the school has up-to-date information about any allergies your child may have. Accurate allergy information enables us to put appropriate support plans in place, train staff effectively, and respond quickly in an emergency. We all have a part to play in creating a safe environment, including following our nut-aware policy and being mindful of the food brought into school. If your child has an allergy, please contact the school or update their details via Arbor. Be Allergy Aware and Save A Life - see more here.
The Drama curriculum at Paignton Academy is designed to inspire creativity, build confidence and develop students' understanding and appreciation of theatre and performance. Through exploring a range of dramatic techniques, scripted and devised performances, and the work of different theatre makers, students develop their creative abilities alongside essential skills in communication, collaboration, critical thinking and self-reflection.
At KS3, students are introduced to a range of theatrical skills, dramatic techniques and performance styles. Through practical exploration of different stimuli, genres and scripts, students develop their ability to create characters, improvise, devise and perform with confidence. They learn to use vocal and physical skills to communicate meaning and engage an audience. Students also develop their analytical and evaluative skills by reflecting on their own performances and the work of others, including live theatre. As students' progress through KS3, they build on prior learning, developing greater independence, creativity and confidence in both practical and written work.
At KS4, students study the AQA GCSE Drama qualification, building on the knowledge and skills developed at KS3. The course consists of three components: Understanding Drama, Devising Drama and Texts in Practice. In Understanding Drama, students study the set play Blood Brothers by Willy Russell, exploring its characters, themes and dramatic techniques, alongside analysing and evaluating live theatre performances. In Devising Drama, students work collaboratively to create, develop and perform original pieces of theatre, reflecting on and evaluating their creative process. Through Texts in Practice, students explore and perform extracts from published plays, applying theatrical skills to communicate character and artistic intentions. Throughout the course, students develop their creativity, independence and ability to analyse, evaluate and refine their work.
Learning across both key stages is enriched through theatre trips, workshops and performance opportunities within the Academy and with external providers. These experiences broaden students' understanding of theatre and encourage an appreciation of different perspectives and creative approaches. Regular reflection and feedback support students in developing resilience, confidence and a commitment to improvement.
By the end of their time studying Drama at Paignton Academy, we aim for students to have developed a broad understanding of theatre and performance alongside the confidence to express themselves creatively. Students will leave with valuable transferable skills, including leadership, teamwork, problem-solving, public speaking and time management. Our aim is to develop confident, imaginative and reflective young people who can communicate effectively, build positive relationships and apply their skills successfully in further education, future employment and everyday life.