Self-expression is a crucial aspect of a child’s journey through school, and performing arts can play a pivotal part in their development. As part of our curriculum, our pupils have ample opportunities to engage in music and drama classes, where they can unlock creative passions and embrace their individual talents. 

The Importance of Drama

Throughout their time at Aldenham Prep Riyadh, our pupils will have plenty of chances to take part in drama productions. From the Nursery productions to the grand finale of a performance at the end of Key Stage 2, we believe there’s somewhere for all our pupils to find their place on stage - from the most reticent to the most outgoing. We take drama seriously, while also keeping it fun; the children are taught by specialist teachers, and have the opportunity to put on large scale productions in a dedicated space.

Drama, and the rest of the performing arts, can enhance learning, and can be a powerful tool in children’s development. Most importantly, drama can help children to be themselves, and to become more confident and well-rounded individuals. By encouraging students to express their thoughts and feelings, and to get up on stage in front of others, we aim to guide them become better communicators and storytellers. 

Drama can also build team-working and collaborative skills as pupils learn to work together, encouraging and supporting each other, which in turn boosts emotional intelligence. As one of the co-curricular activities we provide here at Aldenham Prep Riyadh, drama is a chance for our pupils to explore their imagination, as well as enhancing both creative and critical thinking.

The Benefits of Music

Besides drama, we also offer our pupils the opportunity to study music. Engaging with music can increase human connection, and even help with stress relief. By learning to understand and appreciate music, children can understand one of the core elements of what makes us human. 

Music also aids brain development - a study by the Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences found that children who regularly attended music classes showed improvements in how the brain processes speech and reading. Additionally, those who played musical instruments improved more than pupils who just listened to music.

Further evidence suggests pupils who study music are more academically successful and, on the whole, are more likely to achieve better grades, especially in maths, science, and English. For instance, it can be easily integrated with other subjects - time signatures can help pupils understand fractions, for example, while song lyrics can assist with reading and comprehension skills. Music can also benefit children with time management and discipline, if they continue to practise outside school hours, which can positively impact their futures.

Inspiring Young Minds

Music can evoke emotion, and allow our minds and hearts to express themselves at the same time. It holds as much value as all other subjects at Aldenham Prep Riyadh, where pupils are taught by specialist teachers so that they can get the most from their studies. 

At Aldenham, there is a long tradition of music, and here in Riyadh, we’ve dedicated a large space to music to continue its legacy. The main Music Room is fitted with acoustic treatment panels to improve sound quality for our aspiring musicians. It’s big enough for a choir or an orchestra, and there are also three smaller rooms for individual pupils or groups to hone their skills together.

At the heart of our holistic approach is understanding that learning comes in many forms, and we believe it's essential for our pupils to take part in a wide range of subjects, including performing arts. Drama, music, and other creative arts have the power to guide children in exploring their emotions, expanding their imagination and developing their own unique voice.