The Importance of the Arts

At St Hilda’s we truly believe that all art forms play a vital role in fostering creativity, self-expression…

At St Hilda’s we truly believe that all art forms play a vital role in fostering creativity, self-expression and personal growth and I have the privilege of witnessing this in our students through the work that I do. The Arts provide a platform for students to explore their talents, develop their confidence, and cultivate a lifelong appreciation for various art forms.

When we look at the major School Production, the amount of time our cast, crew and musicians have dedicated to learning and mastering each of their roles is extraordinary. They have absorbed a significant amount of information. The cast learn scripts, songs and choreography whilst building characters and relationships; the crew develop an ability to work as a team to anticipate upcoming scenes and move set pieces swiftly into positions without missing a beat; and our musicians maintain a mental score with various tempos and dynamics. Remarkably, amidst their busy student lives, they have managed to balance studies, exams, sports, and other school and family commitments. Their dedication and multitasking skills are truly commendable.

The musical is only one of many Arts events the School provides. St Hilda’s strongly believes in the power of the Arts to shape well-rounded individuals and so, we have great pleasure in providing our students with rich artistic experiences across the Junior and Senior School Campus’. The annual Term 1 Arts Festival embodies this, as a celebration of creativity and imagination, showcasing the immense talent of our students across various artistic disciplines. From visual arts to music, drama and dance, our Arts Festival is a vibrant display of the artistic prowess nurtured within our School. It provides our whole student body, and sometimes our staff, with a platform to engage in collaborative projects, and inspire one another, fostering a deep appreciation for the Arts.

While the Arts offer immense personal enrichment and joy, we must also recognise the practical value they hold for our students’ future endeavours. The skills acquired through arts education, such as effective communication, critical thinking, problem-solving, adaptability, and collaboration, are highly sought after in today’s rapidly evolving job market.

How do we measure the success of an Arts program in a school? It may well be the student who becomes an acclaimed musician, writer, artist, singer, or actor. As an Arts educator, I would also suggest that it’s the Doctor who is able to communicate effectively with their patients; it’s the Music Therapist who supports people who strive for better health; it’s the Barrister who can present persuasive ideas clearly; it’s the Journalist who has empathy as they interview; and it is the Indigenous Art Officer curating artworks for multinational businesses. Whether our students pursue careers in the performing arts, creative industries, or any other field, the Arts will equip them with invaluable tools to succeed and make a meaningful impact.

The Arts provide a unique lens through which our students can explore diverse cultures, historical periods, and societal issues. By engaging with artistic works, our students develop empathy, cultural awareness, and a broader perspective on the world around them. These qualities are essential for creating an inclusive society, making the Arts a powerful tool for social change and fostering a sense of community.

As Head of Drama Production, I thoroughly enjoy working alongside our students to help them, in whatever capacity they would like to experience The Arts at St Hilda’s. There’s no better feeling than witnessing the growth of an individual as they discover the power of expression.

– Sharon Kiely