Life in the Junior School
Life in the Junior School is filled with opportunities to learn beyond the classroom. There is, quite literally, never a dull moment.
“I have learnt from being in the Junior School, that no matter what you do, you should never give up.”
– Sherla, Year 7
PERFORMING ARTS
Junior School Drama sparkles with talent, enthusiasm and usually a whole lot of glitter! Opportunities abound in the First School where the youngest pupils enjoy dressing up and indulging in the glitz and excitement of events such as their Christmas Play, the Founder’s Day Play and their assemblies. Drama teaching begins with a weekly lesson for each class from Reception onwards. There are also drama and dance clubs on offer throughout the Lower School.
Every student also takes part in at least one production annually, and these are often ambitious extravaganzas. In recent years students have performed The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Oliver. Lower School pupils perform in the Performing Arts Centre, which is an exciting experience for both the cast and the audience.
Class assemblies are a regular event which parents are invited to.
MUSIC
Music is an important part of life in the Junior School. Pupils enjoy twice weekly class music lessons which provide opportunities for performing, composing, listening and appraising.In the Lower School a weekly choir session further develops vocal and musicianship skills and provides many opportunities for performance. In addition to this, there is an auditioned Chamber Choir. This talented group of singers achieve an extremely high standard, performing in festivals and competitions. In 2015 the choir were selected from more than 100 schools in the UK to take part in the finals of the Junior Children’s Choir competition at the prestigious Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod, and they have also performed on BBC Radio 3!
Most Lower School students have instrumental lessons with our talented peripatetic teachers. A full complement of instrumental lessons is available; the best age to start varies from instrument to instrument and the development of the individual.
“My fondest memory of the Junior School was when we went to France in Year 6. It was an experience I will never forget. I learnt so many new and exciting things.”
– Damini, Year 7