Expressive Arts at Greenhills

Creativity, confidence and self-expression for every child

Expressive arts allow children to explore their creativity, share their ideas and build confidence. Through art, music, drama and dance, children develop skills that support communication, wellbeing and learning across the curriculum.

Research shows that participation in the arts can:

• improve motivation and engagement

• support wellbeing and self-esteem

• develop communication and collaboration skills
  
  

At Greenhills, expressive arts are for everyone and are an important part of our inclusive curriculum.

🎨 Our approach

We provide a wide range of creative experiences across the school.

Children have opportunities to:

• create and explore in art and design

• perform and respond to music

• take part in drama and role play

• experience movement and dance
  
  

These experiences allow children to express themselves in different ways and develop their individual talents.

🖌️ Art and design

Children learn to:

• use a variety of materials and techniques

• draw, paint, model and design

• talk about their own work and the work of others
  
  

We focus on creativity, effort and personal expression.

🎶 Music

Through music, children:

• sing and play instruments

• keep rhythm and follow beat

• listen and respond to different styles of music
  
  

Music builds confidence, listening skills and a sense of achievement.

🎭 Drama and performance

Drama helps children to:

• use their imagination

• develop communication skills

• build confidence when performing

• work with others
  
  

It also supports learning across literacy and health and wellbeing.

💃 Dance and movement

Children explore movement to:

• express ideas and feelings

• develop coordination and balance

• work creatively with others
  
  

🌈 Inclusive for all

Expressive arts are a key part of our inclusive practice.

We use:

• sensory art and music experiences

• visual and tactile resources

• movement and play-based expression

• communication-friendly approaches
  
  

This allows every child to take part, achieve success and share their voice in their own way.

How parents and families can help at home

🎨 Be creative together

You can:

• draw, paint or make models

• use recycled materials to create artwork

• display your child’s creations at home
  
  

🎶 Enjoy music

Listen to music together, sing songs and explore rhythm by clapping or using household objects as instruments.

🎭 Encourage imagination

Provide opportunities for:

• dressing up

• role play

• putting on small performances for the family

⭐ Celebrate effort, not just the finished product

Praise your child for trying, creating and expressing themselves.

Expressive arts help children to feel successful, confident and inspired. At Greenhills, we ensure every child has the opportunity to develop their creativity and share who they are.