This study is concerned only with the history of drama and dramatic method in primary schools in Australia - roughly ages five to twelve. It treats these topics as they developed from within the primary school over a period of thirty years, c.1947 - c.1977. This approach considers the internal day to day use of drama in a child's development. An examination of those external influences that come into the school periodically (eg theatre in education groups) lies beyond the scope of this investigation. Also excluded was the role of drama in schools for the mentally and physically handicapped. The development of drama in the primary schools of one state is often reflected in those of another. Where this occurs, detailed analyses have been avoided to prevent needless repetition of particular trends. Treated in greater detail are those states where information was more accessible.