The Arts are a vibrant and essential part of life at Ripley Court School. From Nursery through to Upper Court Prep, pupils are encouraged to express themselves creatively through music, drama, art, and dance.
Our specialist teachers nurture confidence, imagination, and self-expression, ensuring every child has the opportunity to participate, perform, and create.
Music begins early at Ripley Court, with opportunities for every child to discover the joy of performing, creating and learning together. In Little Court Pre Prep, pupils take part in weekly singing assemblies, music lessons and dance sessions led by specialist teachers. Year 1 pupils also benefit from an additional violin lesson, while Year 2 pupils begin learning the recorder.
In Upper Court Prep, pupils enjoy two music lessons each week, with all Year 3 pupils learning the ukulele as part of their musical development. Our well-resourced music department includes a dedicated teaching studio, individual tuition rooms and a charming converted stable, which serves as a unique mini theatre space.
For children who want to take their musical interests further, specialist peripatetic teachers offer individual instrumental tuition across the school. Around 75% of our pupils choose to learn an instrument, reflecting the breadth of opportunities available and the enthusiasm for music within our community.Children are encouraged to share their progress and perform for others through our half-termly Teatime Concerts, celebrating musical growth and giving pupils the confidence to perform in front of an audience.
From Years 3 to 6, pupils can further develop their skills and interests through ensembles including Orchestra , String Ensemble, Rock Band and Court Singers, our auditioned choir. All pupils in Years 3–6 also take part in Upper Court Choir, giving every child the opportunity to experience the joy of singing together. The choir recently collaborated with Reeds School Choir in a performance at Cadogan Hall in London, providing pupils with an unforgettable opportunity to perform on a prestigious stage.
Drama plays an important role in developing confidence, communication, creativity and teamwork, and every child is encouraged to take part and discover the joy of performing. From their earliest years, pupils have opportunities to perform in front of an audience. Nursery and Pre-Prep pupils take part in the Little Court Nativity and Summer Dance Extravaganza, while drama continues throughout the Upper Court curriculum, ensuring every pupil experiences the excitement and creative expression of the performing arts.
In Year 3 and 4, pupils take part in an annual Autumn Term play, while Year 6 pupils take centre stage in a major end-of-year production. Recent performances have included Alice in Wonder Land, The Lion King, Matilda, and Oliver! giving pupils the opportunity to develop their skills while working together as an ensemble. Productions are a highlight of the school year, with performances making use of our intimate theatre space as well as the multi-purpose sports hall, which can be transformed into a larger performance venue. From rehearsals to the final curtain, pupils learn the value of preparation, collaboration and perseverance, while gaining the confidence to perform in front of an audience.
LAMDA lessons are available from Year 2, helping pupils develop clear diction, presentation skills and self-assurance – valuable skills that extend far beyond the stage.
Art encourages creativity, confidence and individual expression, giving pupils the freedom to explore ideas, experiment with different materials and develop their own artistic voice.
From Year 2, pupils benefit from specialist teaching in our beautiful, light filled purpose-built Art room, exploring a wide range of media including textiles, clay, painting and fine drawing. Alongside developing practical skills, pupils learn about influential artists and discover how different artists, styles and techniques can inspire their own work.
Learning extends beyond the classroom through educational visits that bring art and creativity to life. Trips to places such as Wisley Gardens and the National Gallery in London provide fresh inspiration, helping pupils to develop their observation skills, broaden their understanding and see the world around them through an artistic lens.
