Life success is nurtured when our learners can explore and learn in new and different ways. For our Junior Campus students, these opportunities are many. Increasingly, research shows us that having an Arts education be it performing, visual or creative makes a significant contribution to a child’s ability to learn and acquire skills that will serve them well in life.
I often reflect on how we grow our student’s confidence, develop their open mindset and challenge their ability to adapt to changing circumstances. All skills they will need in the future.
I also query how technology and the evolution of AI may impact their learning. Having a strong and engaging arts program across drama, dance, visual arts and music is essential to address these questions amongst many other considerations of how we work with families to grow amazing humans!
At Grammar, we are blessed to have an extensive Arts offering steeped in history. It no doubt started with hymns sung in Chapel and now we are and always will be a singing school! From this foundation, we have seen our offering extend across all art forms. On both campuses, we have vibrant classroom and cocurricular experiences in drama, theatre arts, music, dance, and the visual arts. Recently, we have seen high-calibre performances at the Launceston Comps, the superb musical CATS and stunning art exhibitions at the Arthouse and Poimena.
On Wednesday evening the Chair of the LCGS Board, Nigel Bailey, Head of Junior Campus Sheona Carter and I enjoyed a music soirée where 20 of our Junior School musicians performed for parents, friends and staff. It was in the words of our JS Music Captains “wonderful”. I always think the start of the journey is the best part and then take great interest in watching young musicians evolve their skills and talent over the school journey.
Our amazing Arthouse program led by Mrs Cook is a place for students to excel and explore their wildest imaginings. The quality of the artworks witnessed on Mother’s Day and in the recent Mini Glover exhibitions was inspiring. We see our students developing their creative and critical thinking skills as they are encouraged and provoked to think in a different way about the complexities of life.
Grade 5 have started preparations for their musical Seussical and rehearsals are underway. Through the theatre arts process, our young people will learn to lean into their vulnerability, test their courage, and develop and grow their resilience in a safe and supported learning environment. In Term 3 I know we will see a fantastical, magical, musical extravaganza!
Our Little Extras program features further opportunities in the Arts, and I am hoping that Hip Hop dancing makes a return!
Through the Arts, we are contributing to the academic success and well-being of our students. Leadership is committed to evolving our Arts education at both campuses to ensure our quest to create bright futures and lifelong joy because of a Grammar education is realised.
Viva La Arts!
Dale Bennett
Principal