Shell Guide to the Curriculum 2026-2027

OPTIONAL SUBJECTS

OPTIONAL SUBJECTS

Computer Science

Drama

We are excited to be teaching Computer Science at Teddies and have an inspiring array of projects for you to engage with in the year ahead. The focus of the course will be on coding and programming to solve real world problems in the School and the community. Pupils will tackle these practical tasks individually and in small groups. Building adaptive greenhouses that can detect temperature and climatic conditions is just one example of the sort of project on which you will work. The aim of these projects is to give Shells an excellent grounding in coding and informatics, leaving them ready to embark on the GCSE course or to apply their skills outside the classroom. We run a Computer Science society where you can continue to grow and develop your passion for the subject outside the timetabled lessons. We welcome all pupils, including those not taking Computer Science in the Shell.

Drama is a subject that allows pupils’ creativity to flourish and their imaginations to ignite. Our Drama curriculum offers far more than theatrical education - it provides a platform for students to express, develop, and share ideas in a collaborative space. This environment nurtures the superb productions and performances for which Teddies is renowned, and our professional on-site theatre provides ample opportunities to see professional productions as part of the course. In their first year, pupils are introduced to a wide range of theatre-making contexts. During the first term, they focus on developing collaborative approaches to creating theatre and explore the ‘Drama Toolkit’ used to realise ideas practically. Pupils then apply this knowledge to produce their own original work in response to a chosen stimulus, developing a deeper understanding of collaborative devising. In the second term, Shells study a range of influential theatre practitioners from around the world to strengthen their holistic and international understanding of theatre practice. In the latter half of the term, they interpret a professional play text and stage selected scenes for assessment.

In the third term, pupils learn how to analyse and evaluate live theatre from the perspective of an audience member. They also attend live performances by their peers during Gaudy Week, enhancing their appreciation of theatre in performance. As Shells progress through the Drama curriculum, they build confidence and communication skills through teamwork, improvisation, and performance work before advancing to more complex scripted projects. Our Drama programme is designed to inspire, challenge, and cultivate creativity while fostering a lifelong love of theatre. The skills and knowledge gained through Drama help pupils become well-rounded, reflective, and empathetic individuals, equipped to thrive both academically and professionally.

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GUIDE TO THE SHELL CURRICULUM 2026–2027