Art, Music & Drama

In St Joseph’s Grammar School, we understand the value of participating in the creative arts.  With global employers crying out for graduates with skills that meet the needs of the 21st-century economy – from innovation to critical thinking and adaptability – we consciously place a high value on creativity and are constantly looking for exciting and engaging ways to nurture these skills in our students.  In St Joseph’s we believe that the arts can act as a key, unlocking many of the skills that inspire children to engage with their studies and love learning. Skills, which can, therefore, support academic success.

 

Art, music and drama are a vital and enriching part of education at St Joseph’s. They allow the students to develop alternative approaches and strategies for problem-solving and thinking. Even if students do not follow on to a creative career, they take with them the ability and skills to think differently and numerous studies have shown that employers value individuals with fresh viewpoints who can find alternative means to solutions.

 

Drama

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In 2016 our state of the art drama suite was opened as part of a £3.7milliom capital investment project meaning that our students learn in a first class facility with the most up to date technology.  Pupils at Key Stage 3 have Drama once per week. The focus of Key Stage 3 Drama is William Shakespeare's quote "All the World's a Stage". Our Drama Department believe that all pupils should have the opportunity to express themselves. In Year 8, we focus on basic dramatic skills such as facial expression and body language. The Year 9 curriculum focusses on William Shakespeare, as well as analysing and creating short movies with our Green Screen. We also look at analysing script and building character profiles in Year 10.  Our after school drama club is very popular and we are currently preparing a production of Annie. 

 

Art and Design

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Our Art curriculum is crafted to nurture technical skill and creative confidence across a wide range of media. From the very start in Key Stage 3, pupils build a strong foundation in essential techniques while being encouraged to explore their own artistic voice.

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As students progress into GCSE and A Level, these early skills are refined and expanded, allowing for deeper personal expression and more ambitious projects. Our curriculum is enriched by regular workshops led by visiting artists and craftspeople, who share their expertise and inspire pupils to elevate their practice.

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Learning in Art extends well beyond the classroom. Each year, students take part in visits to local galleries and the Royal Ulster Academy (RUA) exhibition, offering them the chance to experience professional artwork first-hand and connect with the wider artistic community.