Teaching the curriculum through the arts

What were the outcomes?

As a result of teaching the curriculum through the arts, the school has achieved:

• improved attendance;
• improved behaviour;
• more support from parents;
• better results, considering pupils' starting point;
• improved comprehension for all, including EAL pupils;
• greater self-esteem among pupils;
• happier pupils.

The programme encouraging both pupils and teachers to learn musical instruments has turned the whole school into a learning community. Leaning instruments has raised pupils' attainment, increased their self-esteem, and improved their perseverance and attitudes to learning.

Taking a topic-based approach to teaching has also had a dramatic effect on pupils' behaviour and attendance. Staff are happier and the parents love the new approach.

What people said

• 'This has been the best day of my life.' (Pupil, after the school's first opera)
• 'We came away feeling greatly enthused and refreshed by all the fantastic work you and your staff are doing. It was just magical to see the children engaging so widely in the arts and really enjoying it.' (Visitor to the school)
• 'It was a joy to work at a school where the children are in an environment that allows them the opportunity to reach their full potential. The ethos of the school, its unique spirit and sense of fun really comes through.' (Composer-in-residence)
• 'You have made my time at the school fun and exciting.' (Year 6 pupil)
• 'Thank you for a truly unforgettable experience today. The school's surroundings in no way prepared me for the calm, kindliness and positiveness that greeted me at the school. I just wish that every school could have the same vibes and artistic ethos.' (Visitor to the school)