This update was first published on 29 September 2025. We've now published the GCSE Drama specification (version 3.0) which reflects the set text changes.

For GCSE Drama (J316), we are replacing two set texts for Component 04: Performance and response.

The following set texts will be in place for first teach September 2026, with first assessment June 2028:

• Blue Remembered Hills by Dennis Potter
• Noughts and Crosses by Malorie Blackman ad. Dominic Cooke/Sabrina Mahfouz

This means final GCSE assessment will take place in June 2027 for the following set texts:

• Misterman by Enda Walsh 
• Gizmo by Alan Ayckbourn

At this point, we'll remove these texts from our approved list of teaching material.

To reflect this change, we've updated the GCSE Drama specification (version 3.0). You can view and download the specification from the GCSE Drama qualification page on the our website and Teach Cambridge.

We're also updating the sample assessment material and producing new teacher resources and guides for the new set texts. Links will be added to this subject update as soon as these are available.

If you have any queries about this update, please call our Customer Support Centre on 01223 553998, or email us at drama@ocr.org.uk.

Qualification

• Drama (9-1) - J316 (from 2016)