Since 2010, the number of students taking drama as a GCSE has decreased by 30%. This is a startling decrease for many who perceive the arts as an important way for people to discover and express themselves. One of these drama-lovers is Lauren Beauchamp (https://www.instagram.com/laurenbeauchampdramacoach/); a drama coah local to Billericay. 

From a young age, when she would organise performances with neighbouring children to show to their adults, acting has been a passion of Mrs. Beauchamp's. During her time in school, she attended an amateur dramatic group, took drama as a GCSE and A level, and then went on to volunteer as a teaching support in GCSE drama lessons because she had "realised I [Lauren Beauchamp] not only had a passion for acting but also for sharing it with others".

In response to questions about why drama is an important subject for children, Lauren said,

" Many people write off drama saying “Well, I  don’t really want to be an actor”.  But drama really allows a person to become aware of how they present themselves to the outside world [...]You could be a straight A student who on paper is perfect for the job but if you can’t look your interviewer in the eye, or if you mumble and lack in assurance it's unlikely you will land that job! Drama can help with these life skills.".

As well as having a positive effect on life skills, Mrs. Beauchamp believes that there is much more to drama than acting:

 "   My favourite comment I get from parents of the students I teach is “it’s really helped with their confidence". That fills me with lots of joy. After the Covid years, we have all suffered but children even more so with mental health and the way they have had to communicate.By learning drama they [children] can  improve speaking and listening skills, bolster their self belief, learn empathy, patience and commitment  as well as form new friendships , all whilst having fun! Because acting is fun!"".

So, in the face of the decline in interest for the arts, we should remember the benefits of learning drama; of expressing ourselves. After all, the show must go on!