Stretford High School

Subject Leader

Miss Leila Murton is Director for Behaviour and Attendance and Acting Subject Leader of Drama. Miss Murton originally did a BA HONS in Acting where she trained to be an actor and walked the boards for some time. She has always had a passion for drama. She believes that drama provides valuable life skills for young people which include confidence, working as a team, speaking and listening skills, and being able to express yourself. Drama not only entertains people but it educates and enlightens them too. This is what made her want to become a drama teacher. Seeing how valuable a tool it can be to educate young people. When not in work Miss Murton enjoys watching good films, playing badminton, reading a good book and going out with friends.

Curriculum

In KS3 students study basic drama skills whilst exploring various themes and issues. The work encourages students to utilise speaking and listening skills whilst cooperating in a group situation. Students develop skills in building, developing and keeping in role as a character, whilst exploring how to express themselves as individuals.

The GCSE is structured consisting of 3 units. Units 1 and 2 are worth 60% and are coursework based. Unit 1 is concerned with the use of drama to explore ideas and issues in response to stimulus material selected from different times and/or cultures. Unit 2 is concerned with the exploration of a complete play. Unit 3 is a 40% practical examination which explores the skills required in drama to perform work to an audience. During the GCSE students have the opportunity to demonstrate their skills as performers. Students will look at various issues and themes, such as gang culture, the holocaust, witch craft and capital punishment, and use drama to explore them. They will read various plays, investigate their meaning, and explore how they would stage them for an audience.