The Performing Arts program at Arnolds Creek Primary School is designed to nurture students’ creativity, confidence and appreciation of the Performing Arts through engaging experiences in Music, Dance and Drama. Guided by the Victorian Teaching and Learning Model (VTLM) 2.0 and informed by the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) in Foundation, our program values curiosity, exploration and creative expression. Students develop their knowledge, skills and understanding through exploring, creating, performing and reflecting on their learning. They are encouraged to wonder, investigate, experiment, reflect, think critically and creatively, take risks, and apply their learning beyond the classroom.

We believe every child is creative, capable and curious, so our Performing Arts program provides a safe, inclusive and supportive environment where every student can experience success. We recognise that every child learns differently and carefully plan learning experiences that cater for a diverse range of learning styles, strengths and needs. Through play, exploration and collaboration, students discover how Music, Dance and Drama are used across cultures and communities to tell stories, express emotions, celebrate important events and communicate ideas. Students also develop an appreciation of the rich traditions and contemporary practices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, recognising how the Performing Arts help people share culture, identity and knowledge.

In Music, students develop listening, singing and instrumental skills while exploring concepts such as beat, rhythm, pitch, tempo and dynamics. They create, perform and respond to music, exploring how musical choices communicate different moods, ideas and messages. Through Dance, students use movement to express ideas, feelings and experiences while developing confidence, coordination and body awareness. In Drama, students use voice, movement, facial expression and imagination to create characters, explore different perspectives and tell stories. Across all Performing Arts disciplines, students build communication, empathy, teamwork and problem-solving skills while regularly assessing and reflecting on their own learning. They use the language of the Performing Arts to provide thoughtful and constructive feedback to their peers, developing independence and an understanding that creativity grows through reflection, collaboration and continuous improvement.

Throughout the year, students progressively develop skills in each Performing Arts discipline before bringing Music, Dance and Drama together in integrated Performing Arts experiences during Term 4. These experiences allow students to combine the knowledge and skills they have developed across the year to create, rehearse and perform for authentic audiences in both informal and formal settings. Students are encouraged to make connections between their learning and the world around them, recognising how the Performing Arts enrich everyday life through storytelling, cultural celebrations, community events and entertainment.

Beyond the classroom, students have opportunities to further develop their interests and talents through our school Choir program, Wakakirri and talent shows. Performing for real audiences allows students to build confidence, work together towards a common goal, celebrate their achievements and experience the pride that comes from sharing their learning while contributing to the vibrant Performing Arts culture at Arnolds Creek Primary School.

At Arnolds Creek Primary School, we believe the Performing Arts inspire lifelong creativity, curiosity and confidence. By encouraging students to create, collaborate, problem-solve and communicate through Music, Dance and Drama, we empower them to express themselves, appreciate the perspectives of others and develop skills that will support them throughout school and beyond. Whether students are performing a simple rhythm in Foundation, choreographing a dance sequence, creating a dramatic character or stepping onto the stage with our choir or at Wakakirri, every child is encouraged to participate, contribute and celebrate their own success. We believe every child deserves opportunities to discover their own voice, express themselves with confidence and experience the joy of the Performing Arts.