Rhys Ifans's school, Ysgol Maesgarmon, still has a thriving drama department

"We want to widen the choices we offer to our pupils and drama will be back on the curriculum definitely within the next five years," he said.

"But like all schools we are under a great deal of pressure to fit things in around the curriculum.

"We do have to consider whether we are equipping our pupils for the world of work.

"We have to look towards the skills they need to cope with the changing job market."

Dyffryn Comprehensive was a grammar school when Richard Burton was a pupil.

Glantaf School is proud of its drama proteges like Ioan Gruffudd

It was here Richard met the teacher who became his mentor. Philip Burton - who died last year aged 90 - took the young Richard Jenkins under his wing, becoming his legal guardian.

The pledge by Dyffryn's headmaster follows news that Maesydderwen Comprehensive in Swansea - which has produced some of Wales's most promising actors in recent years - may be forced to drop drama because of lack of resources.

Headmaster David Rose said a shortage of funds was forcing the school to reconsider the subjects it offered at GCSE and A level.

He said the final decision had not yet been taken, but it would be discussed when school governors met in April.

"We know that we are not the only school in this situation and it is sad that we have to make these types of decisions," he said.