Drama and art

Diverse Drama and Art Programs at Downe House School

Downe House School is renowned for its comprehensive and dynamic programs in art and drama, thoughtfully crafted to meet the varied abilities and passions of its students. The focus is on fostering imagination, enabling self-expression, and honing key skills that provide students with essential tools for their future paths.

Drama: A Center for Creative Expression and Teamwork

Welcoming and Energetic Environment: The drama department at Downe House School creates an inclusive space where students are encouraged to unleash their creativity. Embedded in the curriculum from the Lower School up to A Level, the program offers deep dives into various performance techniques and dramatic explorations.

Wide-ranging Curriculum: The curriculum spans a spectrum of drama, including creating original theatre, honing improvisation abilities, and analyzing scripts. Students start with foundational elements such as mime and stage positions before advancing to more intricate aspects like the process of devising theatre and exploring scripts.

Beyond the Classroom: Drama at Downe House extends into numerous extra-curricular activities. From house drama contests and grand-scale productions to excursions to the theatre, these activities enhance the dramatic training of the students. Collaborative efforts, especially the association with Trinity College London for the National Arts Programme Bronze Award, deepen students’ engagement. Specialized classes in speech and drama are also offered, leading to awards from Trinity Guildhall.

Art: Encouraging Artistic Exploration

Varied and Supportive Facilities: The art department is endowed with a variety of spaces – art studios, pottery, photography studios, and an Art History suite – all designed to support students’ creative expressions across multiple mediums.

Student-centered Curriculum: The curriculum is tailored to identify and nurture the individual talents of each student, covering areas from ceramics and fine art to textiles and photography. Emphasis is placed on each student’s artistic journey, encouraging their unique abilities and visions.

Enriching Extracurricular Activities: The art program’s extracurricular activities range from The Great Pottery Throw Down to life drawing classes for the Upper Sixth, all aimed at expanding students’ exposure to art. Achievements are celebrated with the ‘Creative of the Month’ award and an annual exhibition that showcases students’ work in various disciplines.

Building the Foundation for a Flourishing Future

The drama and art programs at Downe House School exemplify the institution’s dedication to cultivating creativity, improving communication skills, and fostering leadership in its students. A balanced mix of academic and extracurricular offerings enables students to explore their passions, sharpen their abilities, and carve their routes to success in the arts. Downe House School doesn’t just provide education; it inspires its students to navigate and embrace the full scope of their artistic talents.