Teaching the curriculum through the arts

Summary

Since it opened four years ago, this primary school has tackled the challenges of disaffected pupils, poor attendance, learning difficulties and ethnic diversity by teaching the curriculum through the arts. Drama, dance, singing and music are all central to school life -- the pupils have staged a variety of musical and dance productions, and there is a wide-ranging programme of instrumental lessons. Over 70 artists have worked in the school, sharing their expertise with both pupils and teachers. The curriculum is now taught through a topic-based approach that includes the arts. Each topic culminates in a performance.

As a result of the school's emphasis on the arts, pupils, teachers and parents are happier. Pupils attend school more regularly and behave better. Their attainment has improved considerably and they excel in the arts -- according to teacher assessments, 100% of key stage 2 pupils achieve level 4 in art and design, drama, dance, music and media arts.