Drama

Pupils can opt to study GCSE Drama in Years 10 and 11 and A Level Drama in Years 12 and 13. We study the EDUQAS courses as these give the most practical experience of all the exam boards. All practical exam pieces are performed to an audience and these are very popular events in the school calendar.

Introducing Drama

A key aspect of our work is supported by frequent visits to productions. These range from local theatres such as Theatre by the Lake in Keswick, to regional ones like HOME and the Royal Exchange, both in Manchester. Sixth Form pupils also participate in a residential trip to London where we see shows in the West End and the National Theatre.

Academic excellence in the subject is also supported by workshops or subject specific sessions with touring theatre companies such as Ditto Theatre, and professionals in various fields including choreography and movement.

A number of pupils each year go on to study some aspect of drama at university or conservatoire.

Sedbergh School Drama department is thrilled to be a schools partner with Theatre By The Lake in Keswick. We have enjoyed many of their quality productions in recent years and our partnership means pupils can now access special events like Q&A sessions with cast and creative teams, specialist workshops, and backstage tours.

Drama at A Level

We follow the EDUQAS examination board assessment which is teacher assessed and externally moderated, with a 2.5-hour exam. This is an exciting and inspiring course that is highly practical and provides pupils with the opportunity to work as either performers and/or designers. Pupils will collaborate in devising their own piece of theatre and perform in a performance from a text. Pupils will also perform in a reinterpretation of a text performance which is a combination of selected text and original ideas. Pupils will explore a range of texts and view a variety of live theatre productions.

Drama Scholarships

Drama Scholarships are awarded to outstanding candidates; performers who demonstrate creative thinking and the ability to communicate innovative ideas and enthusiasm for the discipline, as assessed by Sedbergh’s Head of Drama.

Drama Scholars participate in all productions and receive year-round coaching and talent development as well as trips to see live performances, including in Manchester and London.

Learn more

LAMDA

(LONDON ACADEMY OF MUSIC AND DRAMATIC ART)

All pupils at Sedbergh are given the opportunity to take LAMDA examinations. Many go on to medal level and these qualifications are worth points on the UCAS (university) tariff. We have two expert teachers, and pupils can take exams in Verse & Prose and Acting.

2025 Productions

Senior School is definitely challenging me to step out of my comfort zone. Before, I would only try things if I thought, “Oh, maybe I can do that.” But now, I’m pushed to take on bigger challenges. The rehearsals [for Chicago] were really long and intensive, and I had never experienced anything like that before; but Ms. Pye and Ms. Hall are always there to help. When it all came together, it felt so special. Grace, Year 9 Drama Scholar


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