Rotorua Girls’ High School Rautawhiri is a school where Dance, Music, and Drama are valued. Students thrive academically and personally within our area with the creative skills they bring and develop. Our subjects are more than just creative outlets, we find them transformative in our school environment.
The performing arts naturally foster a dynamic and engaging atmosphere, where students are encouraged to express themselves, collaborate, and develop a deeper understanding of their own emotions and those of others. Through Dance, students enhance their physical coordination and confidence. In Music, they cultivate cognitive skills and emotional intelligence through rhythm and melody and Drama builds empathy and communication skills as students step into different roles and perspectives. These subjects enrich the curriculum, promote a sense of community and belonging, boost confidence and academic performance, and support mental well-being.
We are proud to offer many co-curricular opportunities within the Creative Arts including Choir, Shakespeare in Schools, School Productions, Dance Crews and Dance Competitions, ShowQuest, Speech and Drama Competitions, RockQuest, Talent Quests and Itinerant Music lessons.
By undertaking study in Creative Arts subjects, students can explore and excel in various exciting areas.
In Music, opportunities range from performing in orchestras or bands, composing film scores and video game soundtracks, participating in cultural performance groups, to engaging in public performances. Students can also delve into music creation and production, music technology, and even the art of instrument making or music analysis.
Dance offers students the chance to develop valuable knowledge and skills, such as critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving. Through individual and team work, students build self-confidence, resilience, and a deep respect for diverse worldviews, cultures, and contexts.
Drama opens doors to numerous careers within the creative industries, including theatre, film, and television. Students might pursue roles as performers, directors, writers, designers, producers, or stage managers. The transferable skills gained in drama—such as public speaking, creativity, collaboration, time management, and communication—are invaluable across many fields.
Additionally, students develop the ability to generate and promote creative ideas, support and critique the work of others, and master technical production skills like lighting, sound, and costume design. Creative Arts subjects not only nurture artistic talents but also equip students with the tools needed for success in any career path they choose.
Dance is a vibrant and dynamic subject that allows you to express yourself through movement. Whether you’re into hip-hop, ballet, or contemporary dance, you’ll get to explore different styles and techniques. Dance helps you build physical strength, flexibility, and coordination, but it’s also about more than just moving your body.
Through dance, you’ll learn to think creatively, work well in teams, and develop resilience and perseverance. You’ll also gain a deep appreciation for different cultures and perspectives, as dance often connects you with stories and traditions from around the world. Dance is a fantastic way to stay active, boost your self-confidence, and connect with others who share your passion for movement and expression.
Drama is an exciting subject that lets you step into different roles, express yourself, and bring stories to life. Whether you're acting on stage, directing a play, or working behind the scenes, drama offers a chance to explore your creativity and imagination. It’s not just about performing; you’ll also develop valuable skills like public speaking, teamwork, and time management.
In drama, you’ll learn how to communicate your ideas, work closely with others, and think critically about the world around you. These skills are useful not just in the theatre but in everyday life too. Drama opens up a world of opportunities in theatre, film, and television, from acting and directing to writing and stage management.
Plus, it’s a great way to build confidence, make new friends, and have fun while doing something you love.
Music is a powerful way to express yourself, connect with others, and explore your creativity. Whether you play an instrument, sing, or compose your own songs, music lets you dive into a world of rhythm, melody, and harmony. In music class, you’ll learn about different styles and genres, from classical to pop to electronic, and get hands-on experience with music technology.
Music isn’t just about playing notes; it’s about understanding how music works and how it can convey emotions and tell stories. Through music, you’ll develop skills like teamwork, critical thinking, and problem-solving. You might even get the chance to perform in a band, orchestra, or choir, or create your own music for films or video games. Music is a fun and inspiring way to build your confidence, meet new people, and discover the endless possibilities of sound.