Drama

Freshsteps Drama Curriculum Intent Statement: 2025-2027

Intent

Our Drama curriculum is designed to develop confident, expressive and resilient learners who understand their individual strengths and value their contribution to a team. Introduced in 2019 under the leadership of Sian, whose passion for drama is central to its success, the curriculum aims to transform pupils’ self-belief, communication skills and emotional development.

We recognise that many of our pupils arrive with challenges in confidence, social interaction, teamwork and perseverance. Our intent is to address these barriers by providing a safe, inclusive environment where pupils can work collaboratively, support one another and experience success. Drama enables pupils to view their special educational needs not as limitations, but as unique qualities— “superpowers”—that enhance their creativity and individuality.

Through participation, performance and shared experiences, pupils develop teamwork, empathy and mutual respect. The curriculum is ambitious for all learners aged 5–18 and ensures every pupil, regardless of ability, is included and given the opportunity to contribute meaningfully.

Implementation

Drama is delivered through engaging, practical and inclusive teaching approaches that place collaboration at the centre of learning. Pupils regularly work together in groups, developing trust, supporting one another and building collective responsibility for performances.

Sian’s dynamic and adaptive teaching style ensures that all pupils, including those who are harder to engage, are actively involved. Lessons incorporate a wide range of creative and sensory resources, including music, movement, mirrors for self-reflection, and immersive environments such as sensory spaces. These approaches support communication, self-awareness and emotional regulation.

The curriculum is structured around rehearsal, performance and reflection, culminating in whole-school productions such as Christmas and Summer performances. These productions provide pupils with a shared goal, encouraging teamwork, resilience and pride in collective achievement.

Key information is also shared with families through regular engagement opportunities, including performances and parent meetings, Drama plays are highly attended by all families and their friends ensuring a joined-up approach to pupil development. Drama is prioritised alongside statutory requirements, safeguarding, and school improvement, ensuring it remains a meaningful and impactful part of the wider curriculum.

Impact

The impact of the Drama curriculum is significant and far-reaching. Pupils demonstrate increased confidence, improved communication skills and a stronger sense of self-worth. They learn to work effectively as part of a team, supporting their peers and celebrating each other’s successes.
There are clear improvements in engagement across the school, including better attendance, increased completion of work and a noticeable rise in respect for staff and peers. Pupils who previously struggled socially are now able to collaborate, perform and express themselves with confidence.

The success of the curriculum is exemplified through a number of high-quality whole-school productions. Pupils have performed in well-known productions including The Lion King, Bugsy Malone, The Jungle Book, and most recently the 2025 Christmas production of Aladdin, where pupils confidently performed in front of an audience of over 100 friends and family members. These performances have been transformative, not only for pupils but also for their families, with many parents expressing immense pride in seeing their children achieve beyond expectations.

The programme has also received external recognition. Pupils were invited to participate in the prestigious Rudolph Walker ISDA Drama Awards, performing live at the Shaw Theatre alongside five mainstream schools. The school was awarded Best Drama Production, becoming the first SEN school to achieve this distinction. This accomplishment is a testament to the high-quality teaching, strong teamwork among pupils, and the belief instilled in them to succeed.

Overall, the Drama curriculum has created a culture of inclusion, aspiration and collaboration, enabling pupils to exceed expectations, develop resilience and acquire lifelong skills that extend far beyond the classroom.