Our Stories, Our Syllabus

Join us for an evening that brings together the Drama community to respond collectively to the Draft 11-12 Syllabus. 

The evening will start with a Welcome and Acknowledgment of Country, followed by short presentations by Jane Simmons and Paul Martin (NESA) at 5:40 PM, a panel discussion at 6:00 PM, and a Q&A session at 6:30 PM (questions will be submitted via the Q&A system). The event will conclude at 7:00 PM. This gathering offers a unique opportunity to connect with the Drama community, share insights, and contribute to shaping the future of Drama education. We look forward to seeing you there and celebrating our shared passion for the arts!

“Our Stories Our Syllabus” is an opportunity to connect, share insights, voice your concerns, and engage in meaningful dialogue about the future of Drama education. This gathering will highlight diverse perspectives, celebrate our shared passion for Drama, and strengthen our community’s voice in shaping a syllabus that truly reflects and honours our stories.

The panel for “Our Stories Our Syllabus” features distinguished experts and practitioners in Drama education. Professor Michael Anderson, a Professor of Creativity and Arts Education at the University of Sydney and Co-Director of the CREATE Centre, is a renowned leader in educational transformation and the Stage 6 syllabus revision process. David Quaglia, a head of performing arts at a Sydney school, is a passionate advocate for collaboration in Drama education, having contributed to professional development and academic writing for Drama NSW. DiAnne McDonald brings extensive experience as a senior Drama teacher, HSC marker, and Chief Examiner, with a career dedicated to advancing the subject through lecturing, presenting, and syllabus updates. Dan Jones, currently a CAPA leader in the Southern Tablelands, has championed Drama education for regional students, promoting access and opportunities for creative expression. Sonia Byrnes, with over 18 years in education, has led Creative and Performing Arts faculties and supported NESA syllabus development, emphasizing differentiated and rigorous Drama pedagogy. The discussion will be facilitated by Dr. Rachael Jacobs, a Creative Arts lecturer at Western Sydney University with expertise in drama assessment and community artistry. Together, they bring a wealth of experience and insights to the conversation on the future of Drama education.

The event will be livestreamed for those unable to attend in person.