At Key Stage 2, Drama forms part of the English National Curriculum programme of study. It is included within the Speaking and Listening attainment target. The use of thought-tracking and hotseating are two ways in which ideas can be developed as part of a teaching sequence in English and children can participate in structured improvisation, using the content generated in their written work or to gain a better understanding of the text being studied. There is potential for Drama to enhance talk for writing opportunities in English and provide a means of exploring other areas of the curriculum.

Drama can play an important role in children’s personal, social and emotional development at Key Stage 2. It can help them become more self-confident and encourage them to express thoughts and feelings. Issue-based work can help them explore issues and dilemmas in a safe context. This could be within English, another academic area of the curriculum or form part of PSHE, Circle Time or Citizenship.

Drama games are also useful in Key Stage 2. These can involve more complex instructions, require children to negotiate when working with others and continue to develop their physical control and spatial awareness.

In this section, there are materials that can be used to help plan for Drama at Key Stage 2.