Creativity and Creative Expression

Visual Arts Programs

Visual arts at Nord Anglia International School Rotterdam use global teaching plans that grow with students. The IPC curriculum in primary years lets children try different materials—from traditional painting to papier-mâché and clay—where they match hand movements with creative thinking. As students move into IMYC from Year 7 to 9, they develop observational techniques while critically examining their own work. Those who choose the IBDP pathway later explore graphic design, photography, illustration, and mixed media.

Music at Nord Anglia International School Rotterdam

Music is part of school life from day one, with Foundation 1 through Year 6 attending two specialized weekly sessions. These classes cover singing, instrumental practice, and musical notation, beginning with recorder in Year 2 and building toward fluent sight-reading by Year 5. When they reach Year 6, students transition to brass instruments like trumpet, saxophone, clarinet, or flute, joining the Beginning Band where they experience ensemble playing for the first time and discover what it means to create music together.

Instrumental Learning

Individual and group lessons span accordion, percussion, guitar, ukulele, and piano, with specialists forming new groups each term based on students’ abilities. Those preferring independent development can opt for personal instruction instead. Middle School Band serves Years 7-9 students who bring their own instruments, while others explore the Music Exploratory Programme—an experimental course covering Latin percussion, computer composition, and rock studies. This approach ensures everyone finds their musical path.

Ensembles and Performances

A full orchestra and multiple ensembles in the senior years perform repertoire ranging from popular music to jazz. Nord Anglia International School Rotterdam organizes winter shows, classroom events, and takes part in outside activities, while also offering IBDP Music since 2010. Choral singing and orchestral playing develop both individual craft and teamwork, as students perform before parents and wider audiences, building confidence and stage presence that extends beyond the classroom.