Education in the arts aids pupils in skills needed in the workplace beyond their school years. Amongst other things, it teaches flexibility, problem-solving and communication capabilities, creativity, innovation and the will to strive for excellence.
We are fortunate to be able to offer 3 of the 4 branches of artistic studies, namely Fine Art, Drama and Music, as matriculation subjects.
Speech and Drama are offered as a specialised extra-mural activity in the afternoons. Drama is valuable in developing sound, clear communication skills and self-confidence, which are essential tools in an increasingly media-driven world. Here pupils learn to interact harmoniously and work effectively as teams, promoting good social habits. These lessons allow children to express themselves creatively through movement and vocal work while exposing them to a broad range of literature, music, dance and art. These skills are further developed in the extra-mural programme and focus more on vocal production, acting, theatre, arts and story development. Pupils' self-confidence through this activity empowers and participates in regular public performances, which are rewarding for pupils and parents alike.
Music is an integral part of our IEB curriculum throughout a pupil’s schooling career. Whether it is class music, appreciation lessons, individual instrumental tutoring, ensemble playing, music technology and production, or advanced theory, harmony and critical analysis classes, the benefits are infinite.
Studies have shown that music is associated with early brain development involving language, reasoning, spatial intelligence and creative and imaginative problem-solving. Music study enhances teamwork skills, empathy, understanding and appreciation of people of different lifestyles and cultures. It also develops skills necessary in any workplace, focusing on “doing” as opposed to observing, and it teaches pupils how to perform, conquer fear and take risks.
We offer a wide range of options under the “Musical” banner. Music is a non-optional subject for Gr 8 and 9 pupils. Here they are taught the basics of music theory as well as covering many aspects of music appreciation. The objective is for pupils to obtain a wider knowledge of the subject, and even if they do not play an instrument, they have gained experience and appreciation of this art form.
Music is offered as a subject for matric pupils, which requires them learning to master at least one instrument. They are taught music theory, history and technology, amongst other things also learning to perform in front of crowds and participate in ensembles. The ultimate goals of music studies contribute to a holistic education that equips young people with creative, interpretive and analytical skills. As adults, they can participate in music and related creative and multimedia industries by developing their ability to work effectively with others and create an environment where a love for music-making is stimulated.
We offer our pupils the chance to benchmark themselves internationally by taking external examinations, while we are a centre for several international bodies, including Trinity College of Music London, London College of Music and Rock School International. Where circumstances allow, our pupils participate in eisteddfods, festivals, online concerts and public performances whenever possible, thereby benchmarking themselves nationally. Music is a performing art and we encourage our pupils to perform whenever they can. We offer tuition in a wide variety of instruments, including piano, keyboard, voice (all styles), violin, cello, flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, tuba, drums and guitar (all styles). Our teachers are specialists in their fields, and all are fine musicians with a wealth of experience in their own right.
Every second year, Woodridge hosts the well-known Knock-on Wood Arts Festival, offering budding musicians, artists, actors and writers a creative platform like none other to celebrate musical solos, choirs, drama, visual arts and creative writing. The 2018 Festival proved to be of special significance as it took place against the backdrop of the brand-new Woodridge campus following the fire in 2017. It again boasted top-notch adjudicators and entries from over 30 Eastern Cape schools, with Woodridge pupils obtaining 72 gold and double gold awards across the various categories.
