Creative Arts is an dynamic and growing field here at OSH. In the last year we've opened new drama and dance studios, expanded and enhanced our art studios, and introduced a wide variety of new clubs and activities. In Sixth Form you can build on hobbies you already have or explore something entirely new.
LAMDA Speech and Drama Tuition
In partnership with Wyre Forest Theatre Academy we offer LAMDA Speech and Drama lessons at OSH. LAMDA grades are like music grades but for speech and drama. LAMDA is an excellent choice for those who wish to improve their spoken English, presentation skills and gain confidence at public speaking. This is a particularly important skill when considering the competitive higher education sector and job market.
What is LAMDA?
LAMDA examinations are run by a London Drama School (London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art) throughout the country and are designed to equip candidates with a range of skills that will serve them throughout life such as preparing them for interviews, presentations, learning how to debate and giving students confidence to speak up for themselves.
LAMDA Prep
Both the Acting and Verse & Prose exams require students to learn and perform two pieces from memory and answer questions on those pieces. LAMDA training can help build confidence, improve acting and communication skills and is an obvious choice for any child/teen gifted in drama. LAMDA exams are recognised by Schools, Colleges, Universities, and employers (with higher grades counting towards UCAS points).
Lessons will include:
All students will have the option to be entered for a LAMDA exam appropriate to their age/ability annually and are also given the opportunity to enter local Drama Festivals.
Music
Music is a valued part of our curriculum; not only because of the joy such a subject can provide, but also because the study of Music can lead to highly prized and aspirational career choices. To support this, we expose students to workshops with professional conductors and musicians as well as visiting world-renowned orchestras such as the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra (CBSO).
Beyond the classroom, there are a wide range of Music-based co-curricular opportunities; Concert Orchestra, Brass Band, Guitar Ensemble, School Choir, Chamber Choir, Samba Band, Percussion Ensemble and Big Band to name a few. These ensembles perform throughout the school year in our prestigious events such as our annual Michaelmas and Summer Concerts, our Founders Day Service, School Carol Service and Great Witley Carol Service.
Drama
With the reintroduction of drama to the curriculum, our Drama Club is thriving and open to everyone from Year 7 right up to the Sixth Form. This is a great way to explore production and interpretation through various productions and performances. With the 2024/25 school production of Matilda on the horizon, there's plenty more to come from Drama so watch this space.