Performing Arts
The buzz of performing arts is a huge part of Great Walstead. Art, music and drama are integrated as part of the curriculum for all ages with plentiful performance opportunities. Plus our on-site working art studio means children have access and insight into a range of artistic media.
Drama
From Year 3 onward, drama is taught as part of the weekly timetable and children study a wide variety of topics ranging from Greek theatre to silent movies or improvisation.
All children are encouraged to develop their confidence and collaborative skills by taking part and sharing work with fellow classmates. Support and kindness are used to promote an environment where children are comfortable to perform either individually or as part of a group.
There are numerous opportunities throughout the year to be part of year-group productions, short plays and presentations as well as the highly anticipated school musical.
We organise regular trips to the theatre, both in the surrounding areas and to the West End. This offers each year group a chance to see some fantastic shows such as Wicked, Matilda and The Lion King as well as a selection of less conventional performances.
Music
Music is everywhere at Great Walstead. From visiting musicians giving concerts to the many rehearsals and performances by our own budding talent.
All children have music lessons as part of the curriculum. These involve a varied syllabus of academic study, encompassing elements of performance, composition and music appreciation.
Outside of the classroom every year group up to and including Year 6 has a weekly choir session and one-to-one lessons are offered for piano, singing and all orchestral instruments.
We also have an auditioned chamber choir and an orchestra, plus a host of other smaller instrumental ensembles such as brass ensemble and wind. All these groups rehearse before or after school and perform at a year-round series of concerts and services.
Music and drama are closely linked at Great Walstead, and each term our Performing Arts Thursday is staged to showcase a selection of works performed by various year groups. There is a full school production in the Spring term, involving Years 6 to 8 coming together for a much-anticipated music and drama extravaganza.
Art
Our children benefit from the positive values of art education, where creativity inspires both personal and cognitive development, alongside an invaluable means of expression and awareness of visual culture and the wider world.
There are no boundaries to creativity. From our very youngest pupils to those aiming for art scholarships at senior level, everyone is encouraged to create, reach their goals and enjoy the act of making.
We provide the opportunity for children to experiment with an extensive range of materials including painting and drawing, mixed media, printing, sculpture and ceramics, as well as engaging in collaborative projects within the school and local community.
Finally, there’s valuable real-world input from our artists in residence: a group of professional artists who are based at school and offer additional clubs and the possibility to work alongside them in a professional art studio.
