Creative Arts

Extensive programmes in the performing and visual arts provide a wealth of opportunities for creative expression. Music and drama performances build self-confidence and sharpen skills in criticism and communication, whilst in the visual arts, pupils develop and improve techniques in a wide range of media from the traditional to the high tech.

The influence of the Art Department is evident throughout the school, where the pupils’ painting, drawing, pottery, ceramic, graphic design and 3-dimensional creations are permanently on display. Linked to the department is the cutting-edge Film Studies unit where pupils are able to design animation projects and utilise state of the art tools to create and edit film on computer through digitisation.

The Design and Technology Department provides excellent opportunities for developing creative design into quality manufacture. Equal numbers of boys and girls enjoy a wide range of disciplines from product design to engineering. Computers are used extensively in the design process as well as in the operation of machinery.

Our Theatre was opened in February 2000 by Sir Nigel Hawthorne and seats 120. Drama is offered as a GCSE subject, and Theatre Studies at A Level. Pupils who are keen to be involved in drama can participate in a weekly extra-curricular drama activity, and there are opportunities on stage or behind the scenes in school productions. Successful productions in the school theatre have been: Cider with Rosie, The Thwarting of Baron Bollingrew, Les Miserables, The Tempest Transformed, An Inspector Calls and Our Day Out.

Music is part of our way of life at Abbotsholme. All pupils are encouraged to appreciate music in some way, either formally by learning to play an instrument or taking singing lessons, or informally by simply attending some of the performances that are frequently organised to the delight of their audiences. Both the orchestra and the choir comprise a mixture of staff and pupils, which fosters the special atmosphere of shared experience so typical of Abbotsholme.

Abbotsholme Arts Society

Abbotsholme Arts Society is one of the country's most respected concert presenters in the country.

Although embracing jazz, poetry and drama performances, its core programme of chamber music has brought a Who's Who of big-name musicians to the school over the years - Askenazy, Brendel, Galway, Hough and the Amadeus Quartet to name just a few.

For details of the society's current season go to www.abbotsholmeartssociety.co.uk.