The Performing Arts assists in the creation of emotionally mature and well-rounded individuals whose experience of collaboration, performance and creativity will provide them with the knowledge they will need to lead teams, communicate effectively in business, present their ideas and concepts with confidence and tenacity and the resilience to get feedback and come back stronger.

Students will complete their studies having learnt how to devise, appraise, empathise, collaborate and create performances, encouraging them to think outside the box through the freedom of their own expression.

At Key Stage 3 every child has one session of Drama a week with a creative curriculum being chosen for year 9 and then as an option at Key Stage 4. 

Drama at Manshead CE Academy is fully inclusive and develops every child’s ability to work cooperatively and creatively in a safe and supportive environment.  The arts give students a variety of skills sought after by employers and universities as well as growing them as a member of a wider community through group work, communication and enhancing self-confidence through various situations. Students will explore cultural issues, historical periods, theatrical practice and a published play for each year of study in our curriculum. Drama develops an appreciation of the arts, aids learning in multiple areas across the curriculum, and a wider knowledge and understanding of the world beyond the classroom.

The main value of the arts at Manshead CE Academy is to create and develop students who are intuitive, creative, resilient, innovative, self-motivated and who challenge common misconceptions, opening up a world of expression and setting them up with the skills needed for a wide range of employment opportunities.

The Drama department offers an extensive program of learning beyond the classroom. Our biggest project is the annual whole school production which is open to all students in all year groups within the school. The production encourages students to be involved both on and off stage with our school community running the technical, backstage and set design each year. This huge collaboration breaks down barriers and inhibitions between year groups and is a huge reward for all involved.

Throughout the year Drama Clubs for specific year groups offer further challenge and opportunity for those wanting to expand their Drama experience.

Smaller upper school performances are presented in the summer term, open to our whole community to support. These performances are directed by Sixth Form students and overseen by staff allowing them to work on their organisation, communication and creative skills.

Theatre trips are organised for each year group to experience professional works and a rewards trip for our outstanding students is always well attended.

Parents / carers of Drama students are encouraged to support time at home for rehearsal, line learning and practice for these subjects to enhance and further develop the learning experience.