Drama at Leckford Place

Drama at Leckford Place is about allowing students to develop confidence in themselves, not just as performers but as individuals and members of a broader society.

We want our students to develop their confidence and imagination as well as their talents. A strong emphasis is put on a collaborative approach to Drama where everyone has an input and individual aptitudes are recognized.

We aim to introduce pupils to all aspects of performance including improvisation, puppetry, mask work, acting, stage management, costume, set and lighting design. Currently the Drama, Music and Art departments are working with years 7-9 on a cross- curricular project using Grimm’s Fairy Tales. We aim to work with the students on traditional approaches to Theatre while also using Drama to address relevant contemporary issues.

The hall at Leckford Place is to be refurbished over the coming months to incorporate a theatre space complete with new lighting equipment. This is very exciting and will greatly enhance performance possibilities at the school.

GCSE Drama

The department currently follows the AQA Exam Board Specification. In year 10 students look at the theory and practice behind a variety of performance techniques and styles. They then go on to produce several pieces of scripted work before moving on in year 11 to devising, writing and performing their own play.

Throughout the course students also work on directing, performing, and writing on set texts ranging from Shakespeare to contemporary writers. Developing a critical eye is also a skill that GCSE candidates are required to develop so there are plenty of opportunities to attend live performance in Oxford and further afield.

Coursework

In contrast to other subjects, coursework will remain a substantial part of the Drama GCSE, representing 60% of the final mark. 50% of this is the practical development and performance of two plays, a further 10% constitutes a small written element (5% per play).

Extra Curricular Theatre Activities

We are continuing to expand extra curricular drama at Leckford. In addition to small-scale recitals and performances to members of the community, there are two annual school productions. Years 7-9 will be performing Carol Anne Duffy’s Grimm Tales in January and Leckford Place join D’Overbroeck’s College in March to perform the musical Grease in the O’Reilly Theatre at Keble College. There is a regular drama activity on a Wednesday afternoon that is currently devoted to a clowning workshop!