Performing Arts

In the performing arts we strive to nurture students’ creative skills through music and drama, developing their confidence and teamwork skills along the way.  The curriculum is based on practical activities with theoretical skills taught alongside to enable students to access further courses in the subjects.  Students have a lesson each week in both music and drama throughout years 7, 8 and 9.  At Key Stage 4 they have the option of both subjects through BTEC or GCSE courses.

Each year we offer several performance opportunities, both formal and informal, that students can take part in.  This includes our annual full-scale musical open to all students in years 7 to 10.  Students have the opportunity to take part and develop skills in a various roles both on and off stage.  Our aim is always that by opening night students have developed the skills to run the show with minimal input from the staff who they have worked with.  Past shows include Fame, Hairspray, Sweeney Todd and Seussical.  We also have smaller performance opportunities throughout the year including open mic nights, Christmas showcase and in our church services.

Across the performing arts we offer extra-curricular opportunities that are open to all pupils, whatever they skill level and experience.  The Key Stage 3 drama club offers students the opportunity to develop their acting skills in both scripted and devised performance, extending their classroom learning.  Our orchestra and vocal group are both open to all musicians and perform a range of both classical and popular music each year.  Our extra-curricular opportunities are supplemented by trips to see live performances.  In recent years this has included seeing musicals such as Matilda in London, English National Opera perform La Boheme at the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden, and Woman in Black at the Curve in Leicester.