This busy and successful department provides opportunities for pupils to enjoy drama both within and outside the academic curriculum.

Attainment is high overall and very high in examinations in relation to pupils’ abilities.

Pupils engage with the practical work enthusiastically and with a high degree of understanding and knowledge. This was shown in a presentation on Irina’s role in Three Sisters by Chekhov for A level, and very good work on establishing a ‘beat’ for performance at GCSE. Written work was of a good standard. Progress in individual lessons was good and, over time, very good. Pupils develop their skills and understanding as they move up through the school, so that public productions by sixth formers reach a very high standard.

The quality of learning is very good; pupils are eager to learn. They respond to ideas quickly and confidently, unafraid to try new approaches and correct ones which work less well. Their behaviour was excellent. Their commitment is exemplified by their willingness, without demur, to attend rehearsals for their examination work during the half-term holiday. For all concerned, including the teachers, this kind of commitment is remarkable and most commendable.

The quality of teaching was very good, and the results showed in the confidence with which pupils tackled a devised piece, Death and Coffee, which is being prepared for a visit to Concord College in the US. The pace of teaching was very good, with much useful work being covered. Teachers showed very good knowledge of subject matter and an ability to inspire pupils to extend their abilities in a variety of ways. Written work was well marked and a good assessment record is kept of both written and practical work.

The department has a fairly new, well-equipped facility in Montague, a disused Methodist chapel, which is shared with the music and EAL departments. The department has a fine studio space, which is flexible and popular.

The quality of leadership and management is very good. The department has two full-time teachers who share the teaching and also take responsibility for the very active and extensive extra-curricular programme, which achieves high standards. The teachers are supported by part-time lighting and costume technicians. The department usefully brings in visiting professionals (e.g. The People Show) to work with pupils, and organises a good programme of theatre visits. Some productions are directed by pupils.