As the festive season approaches, Newent Community School and Sixth Form is set to celebrate not just with tinsel and carols but with a robust showcase of artistic talent and dramatic flair.
This year has been particularly momentous for the school’s drama department, heralding a series of exciting developments and opportunities for students passionate about the performing arts.
One of the notable highlights of the year is the appointment of a second full-time drama teacher Mr J Wagstaff, whose presence has already made a significant impact.
His expertise and enthusiasm will help ensure the department has a future full of creative exploration and theatrical success. The school is thrilled to have him on board, marking a new era of growth and achievement.
In addition to the enriched curriculum, the school offers its students the chance to pursue arts awards at bronze, silver, and gold levels. These awards provide a structured yet flexible framework for learning and creativity, fostering artistic skills alongside personal development.
Students can also prepare for LAMDA (London Academy of Music & Dramatic Art) examinations under the guidance of a visiting tutor. These qualifications are highly respected and offer invaluable experience in performance arts.
The school’s annual production this year is ‘Shrek’, a vibrant and engaging show that promises to be a highlight of the school calendar. This production offers students from Year 7 through Year 13 an inclusive opportunity to participate, whether on stage or behind the scenes. Tickets will be available from November 4.
Looking ahead to 2024-25, Newent Community School and Sixth Form is committed to providing students with rich experiences in live theatre. Already this year, students have enjoyed contrasting productions such as the classic musical ‘Grease’ and the poignant play ‘Feel Me’, which delves into themes of displacement and resilience.
Upcoming shows include ‘& Juliet’, ‘Blood Brothers’, ‘Kindness’, ‘Wicked’, and ‘Mamma Mia’, offering a diverse palette of theatrical experiences that cater to varied tastes and interests.
The school will also participate in the esteemed Shakespeare School Festival, where their rendition of ‘Anthony and Cleopatra’ will grace The Roses Theatre in Tewkesbury. This festival is renowned for inspiring young performers by providing them with a platform to explore Shakespeare’s timeless works.
Newent School’s commitment to drama and art education not only enriches student life but also strengthens community ties through shared cultural experiences. As we approach Christmas, it is a reminder of the power of creativity in bringing people together and celebrating diverse talents.
With such an array of opportunities and achievements, Newent School’s drama department continues to be a beacon of excellence, nurturing future generations of artists and performers.
The school prides itself on core values such as honesty, excellence, accountability, respect, and teamwork – principles that resonate throughout its academic and extracurricular activities. The recent success stories from its sixth form results also reflect these values in action, setting a strong foundation for future achievements.
Newent Community School and Sixth Form continues to put students and staff at its heart, fostering partnerships with others to enhance educational experiences further.
