Drama at Newton Prep is a dynamic and integral part of the school curriculum, playing a vital role in the personal growth of our pupils. Through a stimulating curriculum and abundant performance opportunities, our pupils enhance their speaking, listening, and social skills in a supportive and inspiring learning environment. Drama is taught weekly from Year 3 to Year 8, with a strong emphasis on respect for each individual and a focus on collaboration as a cornerstone of every lesson.
Our curriculum introduces pupils to a wide range of theatrical genres and playscripts, while fostering self-expression, creativity, and confidence. They explore numerous dramatic techniques and skills, such as mime, mask work, physical theatre, performance poetry, devising, and monologue and scene study. When preparing for a performance, pupils develop their skills by analysing scripts, learning lines, portraying characters authentically, and sustaining their roles.
Every pupil has their moment to shine, whether through whole-class performances like Year 3’s ‘Revolting Rhymes’ and Year 4’s ‘Greek Plays’, or double-cast characters that ensure equal opportunities to step into the spotlight.
Our Year 5 Film Night is a long-standing tradition where pupils celebrate their silent films and receive awards at our ‘N’Oscars’. Year 8 pupils add to the glamour of this red-carpet event as paparazzi and security, while Drama Captains serve as presenters.
In June 2025, Year 6 will perform ‘Beauty and the Beast’ as a full year group, following the success of our 2024 production of ‘Shrek, the Musical’, which featured prosthetics, a live band, dazzling costumes, and a professional set.
In September, pupils in Years 7 and 8 performed an adapted version of ‘Wonderland’, Newton Prep’s first traverse stage production. It was a brilliant display of talent, supported by exciting technical design and professional costumes by the National Theatre. In the Spring Term, Year 8 pupils perform their ‘Senior Play’.
The popularity of Drama at Newton Prep has inspired exciting new initiatives, including the launch of our ‘Stage Sessions’ in the Summer Term for Year 7 and 8 pupils. This programme provides a platform for displaying individual talents through monologues and short scenes, further developing their confidence and stagecraft.
As they progress through the school, our pupils can engage with technical and backstage roles, including lighting, costume design, props, and stage management. Year 8 Drama Captains play a pivotal role, offering guidance and encouragement to younger pupils.
Individual support is provided for pupils applying for Drama scholarships at 11+ and 13+, with weekly acting sessions, led by the Head of Drama.
Enrichment is at the core of our offering, with LAMDA lessons and weekly Drama Clubs available to nurture talent across all year groups. We often participate in the Shakespeare Schools Festival and organise regular theatre trips and workshops with professional actors and industry experts. Performance opportunities are further enriched by cross-curricular collaborations with the Music and Art departments, allowing pupils to enhance their overall creative expression.
