Performing Arts - Chandlings Independent Prep School - Oxford

We believe that performing arts play a crucial role in a child’s development.

Fostering creativity, self-expression, and confidence. Our comprehensive arts programme is designed to inspire and nurture young talents from Nursery through to Year 6.

Specialist Teaching


From Nursery onwards, all children benefit from specialist music and drama teaching.

Even our older Nursery children are introduced to the joys of music through weekly sessions with a professional singer.

This early exposure to the arts sets the stage for a lifelong appreciation and engagement with creativity.

Our Performing Arts department boasts a team of 15 visiting music teachers, many of whom are active professional musicians with Symphony Orchestras and local playhouses.

They provide over 150 Music and LAMDA lessons each week, offering our students the opportunity to learn from experienced practitioners. For those ready to showcase their skills, we prepare students for Associated Board, Trinity College, and LAMDA examinations.

Choirs & Public Speaking


We believe that every child has a voice worth hearing.

From Year 1 to Year 6, all children participate in their Year Group Choir, performing at the Nine Lessons and Carols at Radley College and in our summer Arts Festival.

These experiences not only develop musical skills but also build confidence and teamwork.

For our younger performers, the Pre-Prep Choir offers an extra opportunity for those keen to explore their vocal talents. As children progress, they may be selected to join our Junior and Senior Chamber Choirs, with the Senior Choir even embarking on international tours.

Public speaking is nurtured through our annual whole-school Poetry Festival, culminating in a special performance where selected children from each year group showcase their skills to the school and parents.

Instrumental & Choral Speaking

Our extensive ensemble programme, featuring 16 different groups each week, allows children to explore various instruments and performance styles. Every ensemble performs at the Christmas Soiree and the Summer Arts Festival, providing regular opportunities for children to shine.

 

For those with a flair for the spoken word, our Senior Choral Speakers often compete and perform at prestigious events like the Edinburgh Fringe and Cheltenham Festivals. These experiences expose our students to diverse audiences and help them develop a deeper appreciation for the arts.

Performances


We firmly believe that every child deserves their moment in the spotlight. Throughout the year, we offer numerous opportunities for children to perform.

Early Years & Pre-Prep

Children delight audiences with their Nativity performances at the end of the first term.

Years 3-4

Collaborate on a joint production in the spring term, fostering teamwork and creativity.

Year 5

Children devise their own theatrical piece, which is then performed at the Summer Arts Festival.

Year 6

Children finish their Chandlings journey with a final show at the end of the summer term.


What makes these productions truly special is that they are bespoke creations, written by our Heads of Music and Drama specifically for our students.

This tailored approach ensures that each child’s strengths are showcased and that the performances reflect the unique character of our school community.

At Chandlings Prep, we don’t just teach performing arts, we create an environment where every child can discover their artistic voice, build confidence, and develop a lifelong love for creative expression.