The Arts

Art and Design Technology Department

The Art and Design department is a thriving space where children are encouraged to explore and react to their surrounding environment. The children tackle the diverse spectrum of projects individually and through a wide range of mediums, with energy, passion and enthusiasm for all areas of creative work. Outcomes span a large spectrum of mediums. The basic skills of drawing and painting are approached and explored by all ages and their skills enhanced through perspective, experimental, life and observational techniques. Three dimensional sculptures are created and manipulated using wire, clay, papier mâché and book art and with the aid of a large printing press foam, lino, collagraph and screen prints are produced to a high standard.

The Art room is used by pupils from Year 1 to 8 for at least one hour per week, allowing the pupils to be inspired by this space from a young age. The space is open for all pupils well beyond the working weekly lessons; there is access for boarders at the weekend for creative workshops, as well as lunchtime art clubs for the keen budding artist.  The department runs an exciting programme for art scholars where contemporary artists’ work is discussed, inspiring sophisticated and challenging responses. A sketchbook enrichment session is offered to all pupils, particularly those considering scholarship.

The Art room is a place where pupils can grow and flourish in a secure environment. The Art room fosters a strong sense of community through valuing the worth of each individual and their achievements. Curiosity about the world, the shape, form, texture and colour of their lives, is encouraged in all pupils. Through discussion of art, an awareness of oneself is gained, in terms of thoughts, feelings, emotions, responsibilities and experiences. Pupils are encouraged through their style of work to develop an individual identity and a growing acceptance of this with time.

A wide range of artists from broad backgrounds are used to research and promote art work.  Different cultures and their influences on the art world are studied and pupils think about how culture affects the art it inspires i.e. Islamic tiles and Africa tribal masks.  Pupils address how discrimination is seen and read within artwork and can influence an artist’s oeuvre.  Pupils are asked to discuss art work and artists’ beliefs and to make connections between what is similar and what is different to their own. To value difference between themselves and another’s viewpoint is encouraged.

Pupils are encouraged to discuss, comment and contribute throughout the creative process and their input is valued, whether discussing an Artist’s, their own or each-other’s work.  Pupils self-evaluate their work at all stages, with project diaries used to assess individual achievement.

Design takes on a more practical approach using the space in a creative yet purposeful manner. Pupils are encouraged and taught confidently to hand and machine sew, generate expressive graphics, explore the realms of product design and cook a range of basic healthy balanced meals. DT lessons are taught weekly to Years 3–8 for 1 hour where the overall emphasis is on the process of creativity and the confidence that can be gained through the process of working practically.

Watch our ‘Art at Knighton’ video.

Drama at Knighton House

Many visitors to Knighton remark upon the ease and unselfconsciousness of children here — their comfort with performance of all kinds. From the Pre-Prep onwards, Knighton children are encouraged to perform: Drama develops many of the skills our pupils will need as successful adults – confidence, collaboration, concentration and communication.  It is also a great deal of fun.

In school, Speaking and Listening activities are a vibrant aspect of English lessons and we host an annual Public Speaking Competition, with participation from Year 2 upwards.  Beyond the curriculum, we often take part in drama workshops and visit productions at local senior schools; we regularly invite professional theatre groups into school.

All children in the Prep school and all pupils in the Pre-Prep take part in drama.  Every Christmas, Pre-Prep brings its version of the nativity story to the stage and Knighton’s yearly Junior and Senior productions are eagerly anticipated by all. Where possible, we encourage girls in the Prep school to devise and realise their own productions, from writing dialogue to creating scenery and making props. Pupils learn to be adaptable and flexible when the budget is slightly less than that of a Hollywood blockbuster.

Speech & Drama (LAMDA)

We offer optional Speech & Drama lessons for those interested in acting and performing, who would like to become confident speakers and learn key communication and presentation skills.  As well as being great fun, Speech and Drama gives a skills framework accredited by the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Arts (LAMDA).  Higher examination grades are recognised within the UCAS tariff for UK university entrance and most children at Knighton are awarded Merit or Distinction grades.  Some go on to achieve drama or all-round scholarships.

Individual tuition is given in small groups so as well as developing acting and performance skills, children learn to perform successfully at interviews, meetings, social and formal occasions throughout their lives. During the Summer term all children take part in a showcase performance to which parents, family and friends are invited.

Children can join Speech and Drama lessons at any time during the year so if your child would like to take part please ask at the school office for an application form.