Join us for an in-depth exploration of the latest changes to the K-6 Drama syllabus in this dynamic workshop. With expert insights from subject specialists, you’ll gain a clear understanding of the new curriculum updates and how to implement them effectively in your classroom.

This workshop will provide practical strategies for aligning your teaching with the new syllabus, covering key areas such as creative processes, student engagement, and assessment. Whether you’re an experienced Drama teacher or new to the subject, you’ll leave equipped with the tools and knowledge to navigate these changes and enhance your Drama teaching practice.

Christine Hatton is a Senior Lecturer in Drama in the School of Education at the University of Newcastle, Australia. Her research interests include gender in drama education and innovative approaches to curriculum. Recent projects have investigated teacher artistry, theatre for young audiences, and the impacts of sustained arts residencies in schools. Her current research focusses on using Dorothy Heathcote’s ‘rolling role system’ for curriculum innovation and climate justice with young people.

Joining Dr Christine Hatton, is Renee Anton, a passionate Drama educator with 25 years’ experience in Primary Arts Education.

Renee created and implemented Drama and Dance programs for schools in the Sydney area for fifteen years. This included roles in and outside the classroom, facilitating opportunities for ten thousand students across NSW Public Schools, from school halls and playgrounds to festivals and theatre productions. Renee held positions in Project Management with The Arts Unit and Department of Education, chairing the Arts Education Planning Group in Sydney Region for a decade. She produced enrichment programs for the DoE, such as Create East, Create South, Primary Play Day, Primary Dance Day, Sydney Region Drama Festivals and Camps. She has worked full-time as a Primary School Drama RFF teacher and as a tutor for the Arts Unit’s State Drama Ensembles.

Renee has worked extensively in Primary Drama skill development and learning continuums, employed as a writer and project consultant for NESA and the Department of Education. She has been a contributor to ADEM Journal, NSW Curriculum E-magazine, and DoE Statewide Staffroom, and recently presented on Playbuilding at the Drama Australia National Conference. Back in covid times she initiated a student film festival and started exploring the Digital Drama space. Renee then launched Enchanted Action, offering resources, videos, and inspiration for teachers, expanding in 2025 to commence after school drama lessons in Sydney’s Inner West. She has a great interest in teacher mentoring and enjoys her role at Western Sydney University, tutoring pre-service teachers and assisting in coordination of Primary Creative Arts for the Teacher Education program.

Currently teaching Creative Arts at Leichhardt Public School and completing her Masters in Arts Education through Melbourne University, Renee will explore Primary Drama and Social Emotional Learning as part of her research in 2025. Renee believes every student can succeed through learning Drama. She loves watching drama students learning to communicate, express, and grow as confident young individuals.

Morning tea & lunch provided.

Pre-service teacher: Free
If you are one of our registered preservice members, please contact the administrator for this ticket offer – administrator@dramansw.com

Member: $150
Non-Member: $250