Wakefield (ATOM Study Guide)

Synopsis:

Wakefield (2021) is an eight-part drama series created by Kristen Dunphy.

Set in Australia's haunting and majestic Blue Mountains, Wakefield explores the fine line between sanity and madness. The series tackles the complexity of mental illness through an engaging ensemble of unique characters, each with their own compelling story. At its centre is a psychological mystery: Nik Katira (Rudi Dharmalingham), a gifted psychiatric nurse, is the most stable person in what tends to be a pretty crazy place. But right now his grip on his own sanity is slipping. The question is … why?

Curriculum Links:

Wakefield is a recommended resource for students in Years 10–12 in the learning areas of:

• English
• Health
• Health and Human Development
• Media
• Psychology

The series is also relevant to learning in the Personal and Social Capability. Teachers are advised to consult the Australian curriculum and curriculum outlines relevant to their state or territory.

Wakefield is a valuable resource for students undertaking certificate and tertiary studies in Community Services and Health. While the study guide has been specifically written for students, many of the suggested activities may support the professional learning of community health workers and facilitate discussion in community groups supporting people with mental health problems.

Activities in this study guide allow students to:

• articulate their personal value system;
• critique behaviours and factors that influence the health and wellbeing of individuals;
• use their own written and spoken texts to explore concepts and ideas and to clarify their own and others' understanding.

The suggested activities promote student engagement and active participation via individual reflection, class discussions, and small group and teamwork. Multiple activities are provided to allow teachers to select those which will best suit the demands of the subject and the needs of the students.

Teachers are advised to preview Wakefield before classroom screenings. The series contains coarse language and depictions of sex, violence and suicide.