As a result schools are hiring non-qualified staff or, worse still, getting rid of drama on the timetable altogether, leaving it solely within the English curriculum, where its impact is totally dependent on the interest, confidence and skill of the teacher concerned.

If I were prone to conspiracy theory, I might think someone is trying to get drama out of schools all together. But experience teaches me it is more likely the failure of planners to get it right - again!

Anthony Gears

Advanced skills teacher in drama

Stockton-on-Tees

Teesside