Arts play an integral role in the Junior School. Students are introduced to a wide range of arts: music, choir, strings, and visual arts. Our teachers instil a lifelong love of the arts through exposure to a variety of artistic outlets. Creativity and self-expression are crucial skills for children to develop. There's no better way to grow these skills than through the arts.

Student artwork is honoured and visible in our school, and the melodic notes wafting from our music room continually fill our hallways with beautiful music. 

Music

Learning to play an instrument and gaining musical skills help students develop a love for the arts. That’s why music education is part of the school schedule for all students. The music course exposes children to rhythm, tempo and pitch through fun lessons and concerts. Students take more focused choir and strings courses as they move through the grades, to start honing their singing and musicianship. 

All music courses are taught by specialist teachers who are trained musicians, instrumentalists and vocalists.

Performance is an important part of music education. Junior School musicians perform in many events throughout the school year, including concerts, assemblies and closing ceremonies.

Music (K-2)

The focus of the music course is to inspire in our students a lifelong love of music. Students develop skills in musical expression with songs, rhythm instruments, musical games, dance and movement.

Choir (3-5)

Students in Grades 3-5, students enjoy a choral program where they study their voice as an instrument and learn theory, dynamics, tempo and sight-singing. Our young singers learn songs in different languages and genres, and from different eras.

Strings (4-5)

Our Grade 4 and 5 strings courses teach instrumental skills through ensemble playing. Students learn to play the violin, viola, cello or double bass, and develop posture, coordination and music reading skills.

Visual Arts

Visual arts at the Junior School help students hone their creativity and expression through different artistic media, from painting to pottery.

Creativity and expression are key skills for children to develop, especially in the visual arts. All students take art classes in their schedule and learn to express their creativity through drawing, painting, sculpting and more. Art projects are often used to enhance what students are learning in other subjects. The Visual Arts program is led by a specialist teacher who is a talented and trained artist.

Student artwork covers the hallways and open spaces all around the school. Putting art on display honours students’ talents and skill development, and gives them a strong sense of pride.

Visual Arts Course (K-5)

Starting in Kindergarten, students take a visual arts class where they try their hand at different art forms. Through their time at the Junior School, they hone their skills in these artistic pursuits and develop deeper interests. Classes and work are inspired by various artists and art movements, and students learn relevant concepts, terms and techniques.
 

Extracurricular Arts

Throughout the school year, teachers offer a variety of lunchtime and after-school clubs rooted in the arts. From cross stitching and pottery to dance and origami, there are lots of great clubs for students to enjoy.

Grade 5 Opera/Musical

Every year, the Grade 5 students stage an opera or a musical at the McPherson Playhouse in downtown Victoria. This large-scale and professional show is an unforgettable highlight of students’ time at the Junior School. Through auditions, dress rehearsals, costumes and props, Grade 5 students gain confidence and performance skills. View some highlights of Cinderella: A Family Pantomime below.