Drama

All students cover basic Drama in Years 7 and 8 in their integrated studies programme, and may select Drama as an option in Years 9 and 10. Some of the skills developed across all year levels are building confidence through activities such as improvisation, co-creating original scripts, technical design using various aspects of performance technology, working collaboratively to prepare for performances, and critical self and peer reflection.

Students have the opportunity to take part in the annual SGCNZ Sheilah Winn Shakespeare Regional Festival, as well as watching performances from other school groups. They are also given the option to take part in a variety of workshops held during lunch times to build on their passion for Drama and performing. Our annual Drama Trip to Wellington provides further opportunities for students to experience authentic learning when they visit Weta Workshop and other iconic locations.

 

   

Music

All students learn basic Music skills in Years 7 and 8 and may select Music as an option in Years 9 and 10. In these courses, students are given the opportunity to become confident performers on their chosen instrument (either as a soloist or by working collaboratively in a group), communicate their original ideas through the creation or co-creation of acoustic or digital music, and increase their musical literacy, listening skills and appreciation of a broad range of musical styles.

Students are encouraged to join one or more of our co-curricular groups where they can make valuable connections with others who are passionate about Music. Performance opportunities include APPA, Smokefree Rockquest, Smokefree BandQuest, Music Evenings, and in-school performances as well as community concerts. We also encourage our young songwriters to enter Play It Strange songwriting competitions in Years 9 and 10. 

 

Itinerant Music Lessons

Akonga (students) may wish learn to play a musical instrument through our instrumental tuition programme, taught by our dedicated team of itinerant music tutors. They are here to support ākonga who have a passion for music, whether they are complete beginners, have some experience on their chosen instrument, or are accomplished musicians.

To enrol in music lessons or co-curricular music for 2024, please click on this link.

Lessons are available on the following instruments:

• Violin and viola
• Trumpet and trombone
• Flute, clarinet and saxophone
• Drum kit and marimba
• Voice
• Piano, keyboard and harp
• Acoustic guitar, electric guitar and bass guitar

 

Music Evenings

Music Evenings are usually held on the final Wednesday of each term. They are a highly anticipated event where the incredible diversity of musical talent within our school can be showcased at the end of each term. It is a night where students share their musical talents by playing instruments and singing in front of a captivated audience of parents, teachers, and students. From soulful ballads to dynamic rock, including many original songs, the performances span genres and styles, reflecting the wide range of musical styles and abilities present in our student body.   

MUSIC EVENINGS 2024

• TERM ONE: Wednesday 27 March 2024 at 7.00pm in the PAC
• TERM TWO: Wednesday 26 June 2024 at 7.00pm in the PAC
• TERM THREE: Wednesday 18 September 2024 at 7.00pm in the PAC
• TERM FOUR: Wednesday 27 November 2024 at 7.00pm in the PAC

 

Co-Curricular Music Groups

We have a range of music groups on offer to cater for the many and varied interests of our akonga. Currently these groups include:

• Choir
• String Group

• Marimba Group
• Percussion Ensemble
• Concert Band
• Rock Bands

Rock bands are an important part of our school’s culture and provide a platform for our high-performance musicians to engage with. Personal growth and a sense of hauora (well-being) are enhanced through the strong relationships they form with their fellow musicians. 

Led by Gareth Kendon since 2009, the AJHS Rock Band Programme provides students with the opportunity to audition for one of our rock bands, who perform at music evenings, assemblies, lunchtime concerts and prize givings.

In addition to these within-school performances, Gareth also coaches our rock bands to enter the Regional and National Smokefree Rockquest and Bandquest competitions, with a number of our bands, solos and duos, gaining placings as well as individual awards for musicianship and songwriting over the years.

Visual Arts & Photography

At the heart of our Art programs lies a commitment to personalised learning, where the unique aspirations, interests, identities, languages, and cultures of our akonga guide our curriculum.

We aim to foster the development of practical and technical skills alongside nurturing creativity. We want our emerging young artists not only to be curious and adventurous but also equipped with the tools and techniques essential for artistic expression.

Encouraging students to take risks and embrace challenges willingly, our approach emphasises hands-on experiences that enhance both practical and technical proficiency.

We value student choice and voice, promoting independent pathways that allow students to explore and refine their artistic skills. Throughout all levels of our programs, we seamlessly integrate student reflection, ensuring that the cultivation of practical and technical skills is intertwined with their overall growth as artists.

 

 

School Production

Every 2 years all strands of the Arts Faculty combine to stage a school production. Students take lead roles in all aspects of the show – choreography, backstage management, lighting, sound, set design, marketing, direction and performance. Past shows include Hairspray, Fame Jr, Grease and High School Musical Jr.

 

Contact Us

Head Of Learning Area (HOLA) The Arts: Kirsten Saunders

Dance: Meghan Sutton

Drama: Stewart Allan

Music: Kirsten Saunders

Photography: Poppy Kirkflexton

Visual Art: Emma Edwards 

Production whānau: Kirsten Saunders

Recorded Music: Sun myoung Kim