Michelle Brown

60 Seconds with Miss Brown, Teacher in Charge of Drama

Tell us a bit about yourself... From a young age, I found joy in dancing, singing, and acting - creative outlets that not only brought me happiness but also helped me grow in confidence. My mum always encouraged me to follow what makes me truly happy, and that guidance shaped my path. With her words in mind, I pursued performing arts at university and later chose to go into teaching. Today, I find immense fulfilment in inspiring others to discover and embrace what they love, just as I did. Aside from teaching, my family, faith, and friends are my priority. I also enjoy going to the theatre and try to keep fit by swimming, running, Strictly workouts and eating homemade cakes!

What do you enjoy most about teaching?

With nearly twenty years of teaching experience, I am delighted to be leading the Drama department at KC. Teaching has always been my passion, and I especially enjoy creating opportunities for students to flourish - whether through school productions, theatre visits, practitioner workshops, masterclasses, or inspiring talks. For me, there is far more to drama than just performance; it is a powerful tool for growth. Seeing students gain confidence, develop leadership skills, strengthen problem solving abilities, learn to be emotionally intelligent, and value teamwork makes every moment of teaching worthwhile.

What top advice would you give to students studying your subject?

My best advice is to stay positive, even when life doesn't unfold exactly as you expect. Keep smiling, and trust that everything will fall into place, because it will.

What are the department highlights and upcoming events?

This term we have welcomed a range of inspirational industry professionals into our theatre to deliver talks to drama scholars, exhibition, aims and Gold Arts Award students. These include BAFTA award winning director Adam Wimpenny; former KC student and professional costume designer for television and theatre Nicole Garbett; television Costume Designer Louise Bright and physical theatre company Frantic Assembly. We have also enjoyed a trip to the theatre with Year 11 students to see the Mousetrap.

We were delighted to welcome Paper Birds, a theatre company who empower women, into school this week to work with Years 9 and 12. Anything Goes production rehearsals continue, and after Christmas we look forward to welcoming Damon Beesley to talk to Drama, Music, Film and Gold Arts Award students about his inspirational career as an award winning director, producer and screen writer. We also look forward to welcoming back former student Flavia White to lead a screen acting workshop with our Silver Arts Award students. We are taking Year 8 to see Ballet Shoes at the National Theatre and Year 9 to see Into the Woods at the Bridge Theatre and have many exciting events planned for the department throughout the year.

60 Seconds with Ms Bruce, Director of Performing Arts and Chamber Choir

Miss Handford's Reflections