An Inspirational Start at Brontë House

Confidence, creativity and teamwork are all attributes fostered by participation in the Performing Arts. Whilst other schools might be cutting back on their commitment to this area of primary school life – either due to lack of funding, staffing, time or perceived importance – at Brontë House, the Performing Arts are seen as an integral part of every pupil’s experience at the school.

We encourage all our pupils to learn a musical instrument and gently support every child to participate, in some way, in the number of concerts and productions that we put on throughout the year. Brontë has a school choir, orchestra and rock band – as well as a number of other ensembles – so, whatever a child’s musical tastes or ability, they have ample opportunity to get involved. We are lucky to have use of Woodhouse Grove’s 240 seat theatre and it is a joy to witness our budding actors and dancers blossoming under the bright lights of the stage.

Some of our pupils are very talented, natural performers but there are, of course, those that come to us as shy individuals, hesitant to be the centre of attention. How wonderful it is to see these children clearly having a ball as they perform alongside their classmates in one of our many school productions, culminating in our annual Year 6 end of year musical extravaganza. The confidence gained through the careful nurturing of talent and the support of peers and staff within the Performing Arts is evident not just on the stage but reflects in every aspect of school life. Of course our pupils are all stars in our eyes – but their participation in the Performing Arts really does help them shine in every way possible.

This is what the parents of some of our recent starters had to say:

“The Performing Arts at Brontë are something my daughter enjoys and it helps build her confidence.”

“[My son] was in the Nativity Play and it was magical.”

“The best thing about Brontë House are the wide opportunities open to all the children, both in and out of the classroom.”

“We feel that the school has a positive and inclusive ethos, supporting the children yet constantly encouraging them to “have a go”, try new activities and achieve better outcomes.”

 “I honestly didn’t think you would get [my son] dressed up, never mind on a stage in front of people, along with the rest of Ashdown! I was speechless. If you had known [him] for the previous 4 years, you would never have believed it. He had quite an important part too! I’ve never been so proud.”

Brontë House – a bright beginning for a bright future.