Music Performance
Year 7 and 8
Students study the elements of music through listening, composing, improvising, music technology and consolidating skills in music literacy. In Year 7, students are provided with small group tuition on a string, wind or brass instrument of their choosing. Ensemble classes offer students an opportunity to extend their skills on an instrument that they are already learning and also to build on group music making skills. In year 8, student explore the elements of music through digital technologies, including DJ decks, digital audio workstation software and film synchronisation.
MUSIC – Frequently Asked Questions
Drama
Year 7 and Year 8
This course aims is to move beyond game-playing and improvisation into the types of activities which require greater technique and invention.
Students experience: creative movement; ensemble performance and analysis; experimentation with stereotypes; characterisation and verbal/physical expression; more complex forms of improvisation; voice control and role play. The basis for much of their improvisation and role play is their interpretation of the function of individuals within groups. They learn to observe the physical/verbal dynamic in groups more closely and use dramatic elements to express ideas and creative responses.
DRAMA – Frequently Asked Questions
Visual Arts
Year 7
Students are introduced to the formal art elements and ways to integrate the design process in the creating and making of art. Using a variety of media, students are exposed to a diverse range of techniques and develop a folio of 2D and 3D work in response to specific subject matter. An integrated appreciation programme enhances understanding of artistic styles and practices.
Year 8
Students continue to extend their understanding of the design process and ways to creatively generate and manipulate image to create specific effects. Observation skills are extended and students are encouraged to advance the visual communication of their ideas through the generation of personal concepts and the refinement of visual and technical skills using a range of media.
VISUAL ART – Frequently Asked Questions
Health and Physical Education
Year 7
This course is aimed at providing knowledge and skills which develop self-confidence and enjoyment from participating in physical activity. Activities covered include aquatics, athletics, movement, ball-handling skills and game strategies. Health issues covered include nutrition, growth and development, decision making, self-esteem and the benefits of an active lifestyle, changes in relationships and sexuality.
Year 8
Physical Education is aimed at providing students with the knowledge and skills required to participate in a wide variety of physical activities. A high emphasis is placed on promoting self-efficacy and the enjoyment of participating in physical activity. Activities include lifesaving, traditional and non-traditional games, orienteering and athletics. Health issues covered include human behaviour and wellbeing, self-concept, self-esteem and developing relationships, effects of drug use, nutrition, sexuality and the relationship between lifestyle and wellbeing.
HEALTH & PHYSICAL EDUCATION: Frequently Asked Questions
Product Design and Technology
Year 7
This course develops students’ understanding of materials and the use of technology in design and production. Students investigate the social, environmental, and aesthetic impacts of products while developing design solutions through both traditional design skills and modern technologies. Throughout the course, students work with textiles and wood, using a range of tools, equipment, and digital technologies.
Students complete two major projects: a tote bag project incorporating custom iron-on prints produced using CNC technology, and a wooden treasure box featuring personalised laser-engraved designs. These projects provide opportunities for students to develop practical production skills, creativity, and an understanding of CAD (Computer Aided Design) and CAM (Computer Aided Manufacturing) processes.
Year 8
Students develop their ability to create design proposals, organise production processes, and safely manufacture practical projects using textiles and wood. Students consider the social and environmental impacts of design while building skills in production and digital technologies.
Students complete two major projects: a padded laptop case featuring a wadding insert, zipper, and custom iron-on design, and a wooden gravity bar designed to hold posters or paper, incorporating a 3D printed insert and optional laser engraving. Students also develop their isometric drawing skills throughout the design process.
DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY – Frequently Asked Questions