Performing Arts

All students develop their skills and confidence within the performing arts department at Ormiston Denes. We aim to create a safe and supportive environment where students can step outside of their comfort zone and grow as individuals. Dance, drama and music provide students with a space to express themselves and foster their creativity; we welcome everyone.

Over the year, there are a variety of performance opportunities to get involved with. This ranges from musicals, showcases, fetes, local events, talent shows and more within the academy. There is a role for everyone within our performances: assisting with lighting, directing rehearsals, designing costume and set, creating props. We believe that involvement in theatrical productions is a life-enhancing experience that broadens them as a person and equips them with transferrable skills for the future.

In addition to performance opportunities within the academy, we work with local theatre groups and community projects such as the Player’s Theatre Lowestoft, Norwich Theatre Royal and the First Light Festival. This gives students a taste of what it’s like to be a professional performer. At Denes we run extra-curricular activities at lunch time and after school. Students have the opportunity to go to drama club, where we build our performance skills and work towards a production. We run a dance club for Key Stage 3 as well as a separate Key Stage 4 club with external guests.

Within our drama curriculum, students develop their performance skills and their ability to create a performance. Students will work in groups and pairs, using scripted work as well as their own devising pieces throughout the term.

Within our dance curriculum, students look at a range of styles including musical theatre, street dance, contemporary (including release, contact, floorwork) and jazz. Students also build their choreography skills in groups, looking at choreographic devices and the choreographic process.

Ethos and Intent

Every student should have the opportunity to study music, regardless of age and ability.

Music is a universal language which forms communities and gives students a sense of belonging. It helps them to connect and interact with peers whilst building self esteem and confidence.

The music department is a hive of activity and creativity, allowing students space and time to express themselves within a safe, welcoming and encouraging environment.

Music Curriculum

At Key Stage 3 we aim to secure basic foundational knowledge and technical skills, which will be developed over three years and taught through practical and instrumental skills. Students will be given the opportunity to widen their musical tastes by introducing them to a variety of genres and styles.

The main focus will be on learning an instrument and developing performance skills, so that, if they wish to pursue music at KS4, they are well prepared. The three instruments taught are keyboard/piano, the ukulele and the guitar.

At Key Stage 4, students will focus on select instruments and develop a proficiency that will enable them to take the next steps in further and higher education and/or a professional career.

The qualification for Key Stage 4 is the BTEC Technical Award in Music Practice.

Academy Music Development Plan 24-25 Download

Demonstrate an understanding of styles of music.	Musical styles. Musical elements, stylistic features and characteristics (music theory).
Apply understanding of the use of techniques to create music.	Music industry products. Music realisation techniques.

Performing Arts Curriculum 2024 2025 Download

Throughout our performing arts curriculum, we develop confidence, communication, resilience, teamwork and problem solving. Our philosophy is clear; everyone is welcome and there is a role for everyone to play.