This week’s Feature Friday highlights a conversation with Mrs Nadene James about her role as Head of Prep Drama
What’s your role here at Marlborough, and how long have you been with us?
Head of Prep Drama, this our second year.
We’d love to get to know you a bit better — could you share a little about your background, family, hobbies, and anything else that’s important to you?
I have two gorgeous children who keep me busy and grounded. Before moving into education, I worked in banking for over 12 years. I then moved to Africa to support a charity I had links with, helping to develop their school by becoming their Education Coordinator. My teaching journey includes being Head of Performing Arts and Head of Year at a state senior school in England. I’ve also been an external examiner and have always loved staging productions, a passion that continues here at MCM.
In my free time, I enjoy dancing and spending quality time with my family. I’ve also recently taken up roller skating. I’m not very good yet, but I’m loving the challenge!
How would you describe your teaching style or philosophy when it comes to drama?
My teaching style is rooted in inclusivity, creativity, and building confidence. I believe drama is for everyone whether you’re the tech-savvy student, the energetic one who can’t sit still, the budding actor, or the natural director learning to collaborate. My goal is to make every child feel seen, valued, and inspired.
When did your passion for drama first begin? Was there a moment or experience that sparked it?
My love for drama started back in school. It was the one subject that welcomed everyone no matter their background, behaviour, or ability. Drama brought people together in unique ways, allowing each individual to contribute and thrive in their own role. Whether it was behind the scenes or centre stage, there was always a place for you. I’ll let you guess whether I was the actor or the bossy director!
In your view, why is drama such an important part of a child’s education?
Drama allows every child the chance to shine. It creates a safe space where students can explore what it means to be human, expressing emotions, perspectives, and experiences that other subjects may not tap into. They get to try on different roles, step into others’ shoes, and then return to themselves, perhaps with a little more understanding and a touch of magic.
Are there any moments from recent productions or classes that really stand out to you?
Stand-out moments happen daily. Whether it’s a student surprising me with a performance that reveals a whole new side of them, a quiet conversation after class about something we explored, or simply a big wave across the dining hall with a beaming smile — each moment reinforces why I love what I do.
How do you support pupils who may be nervous about performing or speaking in front of others?
Nerves are natural, they show that you care. We prepare by creating a supportive environment through team-building, rehearsals, and embracing mistakes as part of learning. I remind students that perfection isn’t the goal, growth and self-pride are. We aim to finish each performance knowing we gave it our best.
What’s next on the horizon for Prep Drama? Any exciting productions coming up?
Absolutely! We have the Year 5 & 6 FOBISIA Drama Festival at the end of May, followed by the Year 7 & 8 Bugsy Malone production in early June. The Summer Festival will showcase performances from Year 4 and the Year 5 & 6 drama clubs.
Our Year 5 pupil leaders recently launched a lunchtime drama club for Year 1 pupils — keep an eye out for more initiatives like this. I’m also working on enhancing our drama space with improved lighting and technical elements to make performances even more immersive.
Anything else you would like to share with our community?
Just how grateful I am to be part of this vibrant, supportive community. Drama is all about connection and that’s something we have in abundance here at MCM.
