The Arts are integral to the Feltonfleet experience of every child, and throughout the school a wealth of opportunities is provided for pupils to explore their creativity, and develop their skills, as well as boost self-esteem, articulate emotional expression, and experience the joy such subjects can bring.
A rich and rigorous curriculum in Music, Drama, Design Technology, Art, and Dance plays a vital role in enriching pupils’ enjoyment of their Feltonfleet learning journey, whilst also supporting their cognitive and creative development, and preparing them for academic success and life beyond the classroom.
The Arts play a vital role in Feltonfeet’s education, fostering cognitive development and contributing significantly to academic success.
Director of Music | Chris Andrews
Music
Exclusively taught to all pupils by subject specialists, our Music curriculum is based upon the principles of Zoltán Kodály, who believed that music is for everyone and is best taught through the instrument accessible to all – the human voice. Feltonfleet’s music education mirrors the natural acquisition of a first language, through listening and repetition of singing games, and visualising pitch, rhythm and harmonies through hand signs and notation.
A huge range of peripatetic music lessons are available, with almost three quarters of our Prep school pupils opting for individual instrumental or voice lessons each week. Pupils are encouraged to be part of musical groups, such as choirs, orchestras, rock bands and ensembles for strings, wind and jazz, and performance possibilities are endless. Pupils can also opt to formalise their musical education by taking ABRSM exams, on site within the comfort of the familiar school environment.
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| More bands, ensembles and orchestras than you can wave a conductor’s baton at! |
| Muddy Stilettos Best Schools Guide 2024 |
Drama
Drama at Feltonfleet offers something for everyone, whether an aspiring actor, a technical genius with sound and lighting, or someone with an eye for creating props and scenery. All pupils actively participate, with weekly lessons led by subject specialists in the Prep school and creative learning in the Pre-Prep, providing a comprehensive introduction to a broad range of dramatic skills. Children have the opportunity to engage in regular performances, with every pupil typically performing in at least one performance each year.
Our program focuses on developing performance skills that build confidence and self-esteem, encouraging pupils to take risks and express themselves. As they grow and flourish in Drama, they develop into confident performers and capable communicators - skills that will serve them well beyond the stage.
Feltonfleet is also a proud centre for LAMDA tuition, with many students taking their graded exams, which are regularly hosted right here at the school.
Design Technology
Design Technology at Feltonfleet is a dynamic blend of arts, sciences and technology. In the Pre-Prep, pupils enjoy specialist woodwork teaching, designed to promote hands-on experiential learning and nurture our youngest pupils’ innate creativity. The focus is on tactile exploration, sensory experiences, resourcefulness, and problem-solving. Children's hand-eye coordination, critical thinking and creativity flow naturally when engaging in an activity Froebel described as an occupation.
From Year 3 onwards, pupils receive specialist instruction in our well-equipped DT workshop, where they engage in diverse projects involving computer-aided design, needlework, woodwork, in addition to acrylic and metal work. We encourage pupils to be innovative and original designers, embracing risk-taking, experimentation, and thinking outside the box without the fear of failure. By designing and creating functional products, they not only express their creativity but also deepen their understanding of core subjects like Maths and Science.
Art
Feltonfleet's wonderfully equipped Art Studio provides an inspiring and supportive space for creativity, guided by our equally inspiring specialist Art teaching. Through a progressive and diverse Art curriculum, pupils’ creativity is sparked using a variety of different materials, techniques, skills and design processes, where children are encouraged to communicate what they see, feel and think. Taught by specialist teachers from Year 3, and through creative learning in the Pre-Prep, pupils refine their skills with guidance from their teachers, rather than instruction, whenever possible.
There is a focus on developing skills but also championing individuality and creativity in an environment where everyone can succeed. Pupils can experiment and take risks without judgement or fear of failure, as they learn that everyone can be a successful artist.
Visits to galleries, workshops and exhibitions are often taken, and high quality art exhibitions of the pupils’ work is a key feature of the Art department.
Dance
All Pre-prep children study Dance, which is also a popular option in the Prep School. It is not just about movement; Dance is about building confidence, coordination, and a sense of rhythm, all while having fun. Whether they’re learning the basics of ballet, exploring contemporary dance, or trying their hand at jazz, pupils are encouraged to express themselves freely and embrace the joy of dance. Performing opportunities also help them grow into confident, creative individuals.
For those choosing to specialise, pupils study the syllabus of the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) in ballet, free style, jazz and hop hop, and of the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing (ITSD) for tap and contemporary dance. Many pupils choose to take their graded exams, which are regularly hosted at the Feltonfleet.
Visits to The Royal Opera House and various other theatres, are regularly organised, and Year 4 pupils have the opportunity to be invited to auditions for the London Children’s Ballet.
