Music
Music plays an important part in the life of The Downs; the joyous sound of children making music pleasingly reverberates through the school. All the standard instruments and singing are taught, the children being enthusiastically encouraged to get involved. Presently almost 75% of the Prep School children have taken up the opportunity, many of whom are also involved in various ensembles. All music is celebrated be it one of the Rock bands, the Swing band or the Vocal Ensemble. Many opportunities are provided for performance at assemblies, festivals, informal concerts or in more formal situations.
Drama
Drama is included both in the timetable and outside of the curriculum. Every opportunity is taken to enable pupils to perform. Two major productions are presented each year; usually written ‘in house’, French is regularly included in the script. Less lavish productions take place throughout the year and numerous children also attend Speech and Drama lessons which lead to public exams. Our theatre has first class lighting, sound and multi media facilities and so opportunities are created for those who do not aspire to the stage but can bring other skills to bear.
Dance
As a continuation of the Pre-Prep, expert dance tuition in jazz, tap and ballet is provided throughout the school. Understandably many girls enjoy the opportunity and we are proud that a reasonable number of boys also continue to tap right through the Prep School.
