Spanish Armada: The Raid on Cadiz Script

Bring Tudor history to life with this engaging KS3 play script about Sir Francis Drake’s 1587 raid on Cadiz, famously described as “singeing the King of Spain’s beard.” This fully scripted classroom drama allows students to explore the tensions between England and Spain, the build-up to the Spanish Armada, and Drake’s bold pre-emptive strike.

✔ A complete 5-scene playscript covering:

• Elizabeth I authorising Drake’s daring mission
• Spanish preparations for the Armada
• The dramatic attack on Cadiz
• Philip II’s furious reaction
• Drake’s return to the English court

✔ Seven clearly defined characters including Elizabeth I, Sir Francis Drake, John Hawkins, Philip II, and key Spanish figures

✔ Easy-to-follow stage directions and KS3-appropriate language

✔ Accurate historical details woven into dialogue:

• Spanish shipbuilding
• English naval tactics
• The destruction of supplies
• Impact on the timeline of the Armada

Skills Developed

• Historical empathy through performance
• Understanding of cause and consequence
• Exploration of international rivalry between England and Spain
• Speaking and listening skills
• Support for teaching the Elizabethan Age or Armada units