Key Stage 3, GCSE Drama, and IB Theatre Studies are popular subject choices in the curriculum. Every year, the Drama/Theatre, Art and Music departments combine forces to produce a major musical which is performed to public audiences in the autumn term. The Spring Term offers the opportunity for pupil-led performances in the Inter-House Performing Arts Competition, in early February, and the term ends with the more serious senior drama production. 

Visits to theatres are arranged to enrich the programme by offering enjoyment and inspiration to the pupils. This year’s GCSE Drama and IB Theatre Studies pupils journeyed to London to see ‘The Lion King’ and ‘Hairspray’ on stage, to help develop their knowledge and understanding of theatre, returning determined and inspired.

Speech and Drama lessons are available for pupils across the school who would like to develop their acting and communication skills, build confidence and enter the Trinity and Guildhall graded examinations. Pupils can choose to attend in pairs or have individual lessons. Lessons are incredibly popular and results are regularly outstanding. Last year (2023) 31 pupils achieved Distinctions in their exams. Pupils taking Grade 6 and above can gain valuable UCAS points for university entrance and the examinations are recognised highly by institutions.

During the summer term, Year 12 direct and perform a play of their choice for an invited audience. The play is completely student lead and is a great opportunity for pupils across the year group to learn valuable team building and creative skills, build their confidence and celebrate the end of the year with an exciting challenge.

Last year students performed an abridged version of Hamlet.

The Schools’ performing arts are backed by an able group of pupils who prefer to work out of the limelight. Stage lighting, prop production and backstage management are all undertaken by our older pupils.

Craft Club: provides the opportunity for projects such as greetings card making.

Art Club: two different age groups, Junior and Senior.

Scenery Painting: a seasonal activity that operates prior to major school productions.

Prop Making: this again is a seasonal activity that operates prior to major school productions.

During one week in January pupils take part in the Inter-House Performing Arts Competition. During this week all activities are suspended as pupils come together in their House groups to rehearse for a program of dance/singing/acting and musical pieces based on an annual theme. At the end of the week, pupils perform in front of external judges and family and friends to celebrate a fantastic week of team building and creative energy.

Our annual production takes place in December where we perform a large professional musical over several nights. This is often the highlight of the Autumn term, ending the busy Christmas period with an uplifting event for all. Previous productions include:

· Grease

· Shrek

· Mary Poppins

· Little Shop of Horrors

Mr Chris Jones is a professional actor with over 15 years of experience in the industry and he bring a wealth of knowledge to support pupils looking to move into Performing Arts in the future. Career highlights include playing King George VI in the stage version of ‘The King’s Speech’ for Bill Kenwright, Treat in ‘Orphans’ at the English Theatre of Hamburg and Mr. Manningham in ‘Gaslight’ for Paul Taylor Mills. He often collaborates with Proper Job Theatre Company based in Huddersfield and will soon be appearing in their exciting new production of ‘Beowulf’. Chris has also played the comic lead in several pantomimes, most notably at the Grand Opera House in York. Prior to working as an actor, Chris taught drama for four years at Chigwell School in Essex and has since tutored English privately to all age groups.

We have our own fantastic theatre on site and pupils benefit from the expertise of our visiting professional dancer/choreographer and actor, Ashley Johnson, who’s skills help to enhances our school productions.

When he is not performing in pantomimes across the UK and choreographing West End Musicals, Ashley also runs with amazing West End at Windermere holidays courses.