“The true sign of intelligence is not knowledge, but imagination.” – Albert Einstein 

We believe that opportunities to be creative not only spark a child’s imagination but also motivate a child to learn. We are proud therefore that we provide an excellent all-round curriculum, which embraces the importance of creativity in primary education. 

In our Lower School pupils have timetabled lessons in Art and Design, Information Technology, Music and Drama with specialist teachers leading each creative subject area. This is supported by a full programme of extra-curricular activities, which take place during the school week. 

Music  

The benefits of learning music are well documented and can help a child improve memory, attention and concentration in all areas as well as giving them a long term love of music.  

By providing a rich and varied programme of musical ensembles and events we aim to inspire our pupils to be creative through performing and creating music. This broad offer is one that is fully inclusive of all ages and abilities.  There is a variety of ensembles running throughout the Lower School including our Orchestral Bells, Orchestral Collective Club and Chamber Choir.  

Instrumental music tuition 

We have a wonderful team of visiting music professionals who offer lessons in a wide range of instruments and singing. They help to nurture the talents of our pupils, encouraging a disciplined, yet enjoyable approach to this important and valuable skill.

Pupils regularly perform in our assemblies and we also welcome parents and families to enjoy our Tea Time Concert performances.  

Our Year 6s enjoy being part of Senior School productions, which have recently included Grease Jr. and Matilda. Pre-school pupils through to Year 2 perform a highly anticipated nativity play each year. Years 3-6 are all involved in a beautiful Carol Concert at Christmas with our Senior School Choirs which is always a highlight of the season. 

Drama 

We strive to give pupils every opportunity to perform in front of their peers, families and the rest of the School.  

Through our teaching, pupils grow in spontaneity, imagination, trust, teamwork, community spirit and self-confidence. The exercises and improvisations pupils engage in during lessons help them to refine their communication skills. Drama also develops thinking, speaking, listening, reading, writing and critical analysis through emotional, physical and imaginative engagement, skills which are beneficial not only in Drama, but for a pupil’s learning as a whole.  

We bring Drama into the classroom by developing links with curriculum topics. Bringing topics to life in this way helps with their depth of understanding. We have the use of the School Chapel and the Drama Studio for Lower School performances.  

Pupils in Years 5 and 6 are taught by a specialist Drama teacher from the Senior School. They also perform alongside pupils from the senior school in Senior School Productions.  

Pupils explore a wide variety of genres during classtime, but also have the opportunity to see a number of professional shows each year, either in School or as a theatre visit. 

Art  

Art has so many benefits – it is a source of inspiration that can develop children’s creativity and imagination, giving them the opportunity to express their thoughts and emotions. Art also plays an important role in developing the personality of a well-rounded learner ready to adapt and integrate into global society.  

We cover a range of exciting projects and topics, linking wherever possible to the wider curriculum. Particular highlights include The Great Fire of London, the Egyptians, Harvest and Art Illusions. 

We encourage our pupils to respond to the work of other artists like Renoir, Rousseau and Warhol so that they gain insight into different viewpoints, identities, traditions and cultures. Pupils learn how to explore the visual, tactile and sensory qualities of materials under the supervision of our specialist art teachers in our own Lower School Art Studio.