The Drama Course allows learners to explore both the practical and analytical aspects of the subject. Learners develop skills through practical aspects of theatre, the creative exploration of the art of theatre and its forms and practices.
Guidance on gender of acting roles in Drama performances
At SQA, we recognise that no young person should be put in a position where they feel uncomfortable taking on an acting role for their performance assessment, including roles of a particular gender. Therefore, candidates who are assessed for their Drama performances have the option to choose roles that are the same as, or different from, the gender they identify with. This option applies to all acting pieces.
It is important to note, however, that the textual clues that make up the character they want to play (age, personality etc) must be adhered to. The gender and names of the characters within the play must not be changed as it will affect the context and viewing of the play, and what the playwright intended. Centres should support candidates in choosing the most appropriate role for their performance assessment.
Changes to the Higher Drama question paper from session 2025-26 (19/05/25)
19-MAY-2025
From session 2025-26, we’re removing section 2 – theatre production: application – from the Higher Drama question paper. We’re also introducing a prescribed text list for section 1 – theatre production: text in context.
We’ve updated the Higher Drama course specification and specimen question paper to reflect these changes. The updated course specification also contains a revised recommended text list for the Higher Drama performance.
More information about the updated documents and changes to assessment is provided on the Higher Drama web page.
2025-26 Understanding Standards event and webinar (12/06/25)
12-JUN-2025
We’re running an Understanding Standards event for Higher Drama on Friday 10 October 2025 from 10 am to 4 pm.
The event will take place at our Glasgow office, with an option to join online for those unable to travel.
We’re also running a separate online webinar for Higher Drama on Thursday 30 October 2025 from 4.30 pm to 5.30 pm.
What the event and webinar will cover
Both the event and webinar will focus on the revised Higher Drama question paper and marking instructions, and they’ll also cover the Higher Drama performance. You’ll review and discuss candidate evidence with colleagues during workshop activities.
If you’re attending the event in Glasgow, you don’t need to book onto the webinar, as it will cover the same content.
Book a place
Places are limited to one representative from each school, college or training provider.
To book a place on the event or webinar, please use our online booking system at athena.sqameet.net. You’ll need a username and password to access the booking system.
If you book a place at the Glasgow event, our Events team will contact you to confirm if you’re planning to attend in person or online.
