The subject is taught in mixed ability groups with one hour per fortnight at Key Stage three and five hours per fortnight at Key Stage four.

We are lucky to have a state of the art dance studio and theatre with excellent lighting and sound facilities which are used with all students when completing assessments along with school productions, competitions and showcase evenings.

The department offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including KS3 and KS4 Dance and Drama Clubs.  Academies are also run for both Dance and Drama which provide opportunities for our elite performers to work with professionals and develop their talents. We also hold an annual school show at Burnley Mechanics allowing any pupil to experience the world of professional musical theatre.  We are proud to have a yearly Performer of the Year Award which recognises and rewards individual and group submission in Dance, Drama and Music.

We have a close working relationship with several Arts providers including freelance professionals, Burnley Youth Theatre and Burnley College.

At Key Stage 3 students work through a variety of topics designed to build on prior knowledge and develop further understanding of key skills and concepts. These are explored through a range of current themes and link to cross curriculum study.