“The world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players.” This famous quote from Shakespeare’s comedy play 'As You Like It' is something that was brought to my mind recently as I watched the amazing Kristin Senior School Production of Les Misérables.

For the incredible students who, in equal amounts, entertained, amazed and inspired us as they showcased their many talents across over two hours of the highest possible quality production, the stage was their entire world. Year after year, I am left in awe of the talent and dedication of all our students who choose to take part in the productions across all three schools at Kristin. The support and direction they receive from staff is second to none, and in every case, the end product is a show that could quite rightly, and proudly, be shown on any stage around the world.

Kristin has a proud and well-founded reputation for shows of the highest quality. This is something that we have long recognised as having an important and vital role in developing students, allowing them an opportunity to participate, learn, grow and develop essential skills.

There are many benefits of taking part in Performing Arts, and they are key components of all the International Baccalaureate (IB) programmes, from the Primary Years Programme (PYP) through to the Diploma Programme (DP), which Kristin has offered since being authorised in 1986. Some skills, such as building self-confidence, teamwork, and developing creativity, are obvious, but others may not spring quickly to mind. Empathy, increased cultural awareness, and providing a medium for self-expression are also supported and aided in their development through these opportunities, providing different perspectives and advantages that will benefit students when facing challenges later in life. These, in turn, support students in their learning of other areas and subjects, increasing critical thinking and the ability to view topics from a range of perspectives.

Just as importantly, they provide a chance for students to have fun, which is something that can get overlooked as we focus on development and improvement. Having watched the faces of every student during productions, it is always evident that there was no lack of fun, although this was possibly masked by the usual opening night nerves at times.

I am proud to be a member of a school community that not only recognises the importance of the arts alongside other subject areas, but goes beyond this, promoting them to all students and supporting the school to offer the highest possible quality opportunities. My wish is that every student can have the opportunity to find their passion in the arts, find the freedom to express themselves, gain in confidence and take those skills with them as they leave school and embark on their next adventures.

Bravo! Encore!