Drama at Parkhall Integrated College is an opportunity for students to develop confidence, communication skills and the ability to work with one another, alongside the wealth of subject specific knowledge and techniques that they will acquire in their 5-year learning journey. Ultimately, we want drama to be a subject that students enjoy, express freely, and have a deep-rooted appreciation for performance and a respect for their peers. These are skills which will stand them in good stead not just for drama, but for their wider school life.
In addition to drama being a GCSE option subject, at KS3 all pupils have the opportunity to study Drama and are encouraged to explore their potential in a safe and creative environment. In Drama we ensure that we always work with positivity and enthusiasm, supporting each other through all our endeavours.
The department is all inclusive and accessible to all our students. As a department, we aim to nurture the potential of each individual by facilitating dynamic lessons and opportunities for students to express themselves, aiding their social, creative, and intellectual development. The drama department prides itself on being a warm and welcoming place where the dedicated team of teachers, learners and community partners work together to develop self-esteem, confidence, and a genuine sense of belonging within the department and the whole school. We believe that a positive frame of mind alongside grounded quality relationships shapes happier and successful individuals.
The Lyric Theatre is delighted to be partnering with over 20 schools from all across NI this year on our Lyric School’s Affiliation Scheme. The scheme aims to promote and develop drama study within affiliated schools through workshops, resource packs, careers advice and other exciting opportunities!
In KS3, students will continue to develop the skills required from GCSE Drama students, this means units of study have been designed on the CCEA GCSE Specification. Students will devise their own creations, study published play scripts and understand theatre styles, practitioners and how they have developed throughout history.
At KS4 all pupils are offered CCEA GCSE Drama. This is a linear qualification. All assessment is completed at the end of the course.
The specification aims to encourage students to develop a personal interest in drama, to engage actively in the process of dramatic study, to work imaginatively and creatively in collaboration with their peers, to analyse their own work and the work of others, and to develop and demonstrate competence in their chosen pathway of acting or design.
The specification offers opportunities to build on the learning experiences from Key Stage 3 and to develop the Cross-Curricular Skills, Thinking Skills, and Personal Capabilities at Key Stage 4.
There are three components:
Two internally assessed (60%)
Component 1: Devised Performance Controlled assessment – a performance or a design presentation, and a student log.
Component 2: Scripted Performance Controlled assessment – a performance or a design presentation.
One externally assessed (40%).
Component 3: Knowledge and Understanding of Drama External written examination based on one set text.
At GCSE, extra support is offered through revision classes and weekly after school rehearsals.
As a department, our aim is to create lasting memories for our students so that when they embark on their next journey, it is not only with great academic success but also a real sense of self-worth and most importantly the skills to “perform better in life.”
Our high-quality Drama studio as well as the rehearsal and performing stage space, supports students in developing their expertise as an artist and performer. We also boast state-of-the-art lighting and sound equipment that enables students to fully immerse themselves in their role, whether they choose a performance or design pathway.
Parkhall Integrated College Vision Statement
