Drama at Oak Lodge School

Drama at Oak Lodge School provides pupils with an engaging and imaginative outlet, helping them to build confidence, communication skills, and self-expression within a supportive and inclusive environment. Our curriculum is thoughtfully designed to be broad and balanced, utilising differentiated resources to meet the needs of every learner, encouraging active participation through enjoyable and accessible activities.

The drama programme is deeply practical and process-driven. It allows students to develop crucial skills for life, such as resilience, negotiation, tolerance, respect, problem solving, and empathy. Lessons explore a range of performance techniques—from mime and improvisation to advanced characterisation and script work. We incorporate classic games, such as "Yes, let’s!", to reinforce essential techniques. Students continually refine their skills by working in groups to devise pieces based on varied stimuli, including live performances, stories, and relevant real-life events. This environment actively supports students in building communication skills, reducing anxiety, and improving peer relationships.

The journey culminates in performance and critical reflection. Students routinely take part in performance opportunities for their peers, familiar adults, or an invited audience. A major highlight each year is the opportunity to work towards a performance for the invited public, alongside numerous in-house showcases. This rigorous, practical focus is recognised through qualifications, as students work toward AQA awards in drama and performance. Integral to this work is the ability to review their own progress, learning how to give, accept, and use constructive criticism effectively to improve both their individual skills and collaborative

final pieces.