Performing Arts

Drama and Theatre Studies

At Heathfield, Drama is about much more than performing. It gives students the opportunity to find their voice, develop confidence, work creatively with others and discover the excitement of bringing ideas to life. It plays an important role in both the academic and pastoral development of our students, encouraging self-expression, collaboration and a willingness to try something new.

Based in St Mary’s Theatre, our department offers an inspiring environment for learning and performance. Lessons take place in the auditorium, with smaller classes and LAMDA sessions using our intimate studio space. Students also explore the many skills involved behind the scenes, including lighting, sound engineering, stage management, costume design and set building.

Our varied extra-curricular programme offers something for everyone. Students in Years 7 to 9 take part in the nationwide Shakespeare Schools Festival, creating and performing an abridged Shakespeare play at the Wilde Theatre, South Hill Park. They also have the opportunity to work with professional actors during rehearsals.

Drama Scholars lead a weekly lunchtime club for Year 7, while our fortnightly Technical Theatre Club welcomes students from all year groups. Working alongside our resident Theatre Technician, students develop practical skills in lighting, sound, special effects and stage management.

Each year, we stage two major productions, alternating between a musical and a play, with students from Year 9 upwards invited to take part. Our younger students in Years 7 and 8 also enjoy their own Summer Showcase.

Recent productions have included Macbeth, The Addams Family, Shrek, Beauty and the Beast and The Crucible. GCSE and A Level students also create their own devised performances and explore scripted work, often taking on directing roles.

For those wishing to take their interest further, our LAMDA provision and Drama Scholarship programme offer exciting opportunities. Scholars can work towards the RADA Shakespeare Certificate, developing their understanding of Shakespeare through monologue and duologue performances assessed by staff from the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art.

Workshops with industry professionals and regular theatre visits, both locally and in London’s West End, further enrich the experience. Previous visitors have included West End director Jonathan Church, Olivier Award-winning actress Joanna Riding and actor Jonjo O’Neill. Sixth Form students have also worked with performers from Punchdrunk Theatre Company to create an immersive production.

Whether their passion is performing, directing or working behind the scenes, every student is encouraged to get involved. With a busy programme of productions, workshops and clubs, Drama at Heathfield is a vibrant and welcoming community where creativity and confidence take centre stage.

Music

Music is a real strength at Heathfield, with a wealth of opportunities for students of all abilities, from enthusiastic beginners to experienced performers. Whether singing, playing an instrument or exploring music technology, there are plenty of ways to get involved and develop a love of music.

Our thriving extra-curricular programme includes Senior and Junior Choirs, Orchestra, Woodwind and Brass Ensembles, an A Cappella Group and a Band. Students of all standards are welcome, and a busy programme of concerts throughout the year gives everyone the opportunity to perform and share their talents.

Our facilities include a state-of-the-art 24-track digital recording studio, equipped with iMacs, alongside dedicated music practice rooms.

All students enjoy curriculum music lessons in Years 7 to 9, while those wishing to develop their skills further can take individual instrumental or singing lessons with our specialist visiting teachers. Tuition is available across a wide range of instruments, including piano, guitar, strings, woodwind, brass, percussion and harp.

We also encourage students to work towards recognised qualifications, with ABRSM and Trinity College London examinations available and support provided throughout their preparation.

Above all, music at Heathfield is about participation, enjoyment and the confidence to perform. Whether students are taking their first musical steps or developing an established talent, they are encouraged to explore their interests, challenge themselves and be part of our vibrant musical community.

LAMDA

At Heathfield, we offer a comprehensive LAMDA programme in Speech and Drama and Musical Theatre, giving students the opportunity to develop their confidence, creativity and performance skills. Classes take place in our Theatre and Studio and are delivered by specialist teachers from Envy Performing Arts, in association with local dance school NVSDD, a school accredited by the Council for Dance Education and Training.

Our Speech and Drama students follow the LAMDA syllabus, with opportunities to take examinations in Verse and Prose, Acting, Devised Performance, Spoken English, Mime, Public Speaking and Reading for Performance. Qualifications range from Grade 1 to Grade 8 (Gold Medal), with Grades 6–8 carrying UCAS points. Examinations take place three times a year.

Our Musical Theatre programme combines acting, singing and movement, allowing students to develop their skills across all three disciplines. Students can work towards Solo, Duo or Group examinations, building confidence and learning to express themselves through performance.

Whether students are looking to develop their communication skills or pursue a passion for performing, LAMDA provides a valuable opportunity to grow in confidence, develop new talents and enjoy the rewards of performance.

Dance

Dance at Heathfield offers students the opportunity to develop their technique, creativity and confidence, whether they are looking to pursue their passion seriously or simply enjoy dancing. Classes take place in our dedicated Dance Studio, equipped with ballet barres, mirrors and specialist Harlequin dance flooring.

Our programme is delivered by experienced teachers from award-winning Envy Performing Arts, in association with NVSDD. Students studying Classical Ballet follow the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) syllabus, with opportunities to take graded and vocational examinations. Ballet lessons are also available for those who prefer to dance recreationally.

For students wishing to take their studies further, GCSE Dance is a two-year course open to students in Years 9 and 10, with classes held at an off-site venue in Ascot.

Throughout the year, concerts and shows provide opportunities for students to perform, showcasing their examination work and original choreography to an audience. These experiences help students develop their performance skills, express their creativity and enjoy the rewards of being part of a dance community.