English with Drama
“All the world’s a stage”
William Shakespeare
Leeds, Bradford, Hull and East Yorkshire Code
Course Information
All secondary trainees receive two hours of subject training per week in English, alongside an additional one hour of subject training in drama. This will be led by highly experienced subject leaders, who have a strong track-record of outstanding results in schools in the GORSE Academies Trust. You will develop and deepen your English and drama subject knowledge building on the practice seen and experienced in placement. The sessions are interactive and evidence-informed where you will explore key elements of secondary English and drama teaching. You will develop as a reflective teacher and will be required to explore the latest research and developments in the teaching of English and drama whilst also practically implementing your knowledge and understanding of this research within the lessons you plan and deliver.
The English and drama subject knowledge sessions are designed to complement the central training you receive from the GORSE SCITT. During our subject sessions, we will work towards embedding your knowledge of key pedagogical areas such as cognitive science, retention, metacognition and behaviour management but we will explore these through the lens of the practical teaching of English and drama both in the classroom and studio. To be considered for this course we require evidence of English studied at post 16 level or above, alongside a relevant drama qualification.
Meet the English & Drama Subject Lead
Gemma Sheldon and Andrea Edmonson
The teaching of both English and drama is a highly rewarding role that can capture the imagination of students and significantly enhance their life chances. Through the study of English, students develop fundamental reading, writing, speaking and listening skills – all of which are critical to their success both in school and in later life. The study of thought- provoking, inspiring and challenging literature encourages learners to engage with the world around them and develop an appreciation of the beauty of language through the exploration of the writer’s craft.
Through the study of drama, students explore the ever-changing world around them, in a safe and nurturing environment. Themes and issues are explored through discussion, debate, and role-play. Practical exploration of character and context can support students with the process of developing their own values, beliefs and their moral core. Students who regularly participate in drama activities benefit from increased confidence, social skills and literacy, preparing them for life beyond school.
As teachers of English and drama we have a passion for uncovering and exploring implied and abstract meaning within texts and using this to uncover the possible intentions of writers and playwrights. We foster creativity in our classrooms and understand the responsibility we have to inspire a love of English and drama, through inspirational and engaging teaching and learning, that meets the needs of all learners.
Throughout our subject training we explore how to develop students’ oracy, reading and writing skills, whilst also developing the English and drama ‘teacher toolkit’. We explore key pedagogical areas such as: scaffolding, modelling, explicit teacher instruction, assessment for learning and feedback. Sessions are dedicated to exploring how to teach poetry, Shakespeare, novels and play texts in an engaging and enticing manner, to fill your students with awe and wonderment. As the course progresses, training is then focused on navigating exam board specifications and examination rubric. Trainees gain confidence to deliver lessons catered for a variety of specifications across both subject specialisms.
Our promise to trainees is to ensure that they are provided with opportunities to build upon their own skills, interests and passions. The highly personalised support, through weekly training, allows dedicated time to reflect, discuss and refine lessons and there will always be a clear focus on putting into practice the content from the session.
