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Creative to the core St John’s College School is a prep where music and drama thrive, through its curriculum and ethos F ounded in 1661 to educate the choristers of St John’s College, St John’s College School has music at its heart to this day. In more recent times, drama has also become a key part of the school’s curriculum and provision. The College Choristers sing six services
TAKE THE STAGE At St John’s College School, the students are encouraged to reach their full potential, whether in music, dance or drama
a week in St John’s College Chapel during the university term, and also tour abroad. Each year, several services are broadcast by the BBC, including the famous annual Advent service. The choristers receive dedicated choral and instrumental training, but are also fully integrated into the musical life of the school itself, alongside all the other pupils. Creativity is a core value of St John’s College School, with creative arts seen as important subjects that not only contribute to the holistic education of a child and allow them to thrive at school, but give them a solid foundation for the future. Music, drama and dance are woven into everyday school life at St John’s. Three- quarters of pupils play instruments, with 375 music lessons taking place weekly. Half of the students sing in at least one choir, while 35+ ensembles cater for all levels and more than 60 concerts are held annually. In recent years, many children have achieved Grade 8 standard, won scholarships to their next school and, in some cases, gone on to pursue successful careers in music. The school celebrates the extremely high standards its children achieve, but it prioritises joy in performing over grades. Rather than restricting pupils with exams, St John’s fosters intrinsic motivation and offers plenty of performance opportunities, allowing children to learn the satisfaction gained by sharing one’s gifts with others. A collaborative approach connects pupils across ages and abilities – by year 8, children are composing the score for their own productions of Shakespeare plays, while year 7 have written protest songs in connection with their history syllabus. Top musicians perform compositions written by year 6, which encourages creative exchange. Informal lunchtime concerts are also well loved, often drawing 30 students to support peers, while the flagship concert pairs junior musicians with professionals. Each year group undertakes a major drama performance every year, many of
these incorporating music and dance. From nativity plays performed by its youngest children to the complex musicals in year 7 and Shakespeare plays in year 8, the school allows children to develop key skills and confidence in a unique dramatic journey. Drama is for all at St John’s, with roles assigned to nurture self-esteem and more accomplished pupils often relinquishing lead roles to support others’ development. High standards meet inclusive creativity, best exemplified in the unique production of the passion play performed every year during Lent by year 8. Headmaster Neil Chippington explains: “For our children, music, drama and dance are essential elements of school life, giving them the opportunity to develop important skills and ensuring a lifelong love for the performing and creative arts.”
Find out more at sjcs.co.uk
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