Every pupil at HCS has the opportunity to get involved in our creative and performing arts. Whether they’re talented musicians, budding actors, skilled artists or tech-savvy individuals, everyone can find their place here.
Across Music, Drama, Art and DT we offer pupils the opportunity to pursue their passions both within the academic curriculum and through our programme of concerts, productions and events.
Music at HCS
Recognised by The Week as ‘great for music’ in 2023, HCS welcomes new and seasoned performers alike.
Our internationally renowned choirs are the flagship of our thriving music community, with our Cantabile Girls’ Choir winning three gold medals in the Canta Al Mar choral festival in Spain this year and crowned ‘Children’s Choir of the World’ at the 2018 Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod. Most recently, our Chapel Choir had the honour of singing evensong in the magnificent St Paul’s Cathedral.
Our instrumentalists regularly showcase their abilities in orchestras, ensembles and bands through our programme of concerts and events, often honing their skills alongside professional musicians. From Orchestral performances of symphonic and concerto repertoire in the Cathedral, to our annual Jazz Cabaret and Open Mic nights in city venues, pupils immerse themselves in a diverse range of musical genres, and develop a deep appreciation for the arts.
This year has also seen the introduction of Music Makers, an exciting programme of events providing outstanding musical opportunities to musicians of all ages. The series introduces a broad range of musical skills, with expert practitioners giving insights into some of the disciplines young people might like to pursue in the world of professional music, including conducting, directing, writing and arranging music. With such a rich variety of musical experiences, HCS nurtures a community where passion for music thrives.
Drama
Based in our Powell Theatre and led by our inspiring teaching staff, the Drama Department at HCS is dynamic and collaborative.
Throughout the academic year, our young people enjoy unique opportunities, from workshops led by visiting industry figures to the chance to join our major productions at Hereford’s 400-capacity Courtyard Theatre, where they experience both the thrill and responsibility of appearing on a professional stage.
Each year, we see our talented drama students successfully audition to join the National Youth Theatre, go on to leading drama schools like Mountview and the RWCMD or choose to study drama at Russell Group universities including Exeter and Warwick. But we place equal importance on encouraging those who have never acted before to get up and have a go.
Our Year 7s start their journey performing Shakespeare as a whole year group in our studio theatre while Year 8 & 9 perform together in our annual production for the lower school. Recent productions have included Treasure Island, Frankenstein’s Aunt, and This Changes Everything.
As they grow and develop their skills and confidence, pupils enjoy the opportunity to perform in large-scale, innovative productions such as our epic mainstage staging of Macbeth, our outdoor promenade production of A Christmas Carol, our intimate, in-the-round production of Bull and our dazzling musical production of Chicago. Behind the scenes, our tech team thrives, supporting with costume management and mastering our state-of-the-art light and sound setup in both the Powell and at The Courtyard.
To further cultivate their confidence, communication skills, and creativity, many of our pupils enjoy Speech & Drama lessons with our expert team, enhancing their ability to express themselves effectively and perform with poise. The department achieves outstanding results in LAMDA examinations which offer pupils recognised qualifications to boost their academic and personal development.
Theatre excursions and professional workshops with luminaries from the West End, contemporary theatre companies and independent film studios ensure a vibrant and enriching journey, fostering a deep appreciation for the craft and providing invaluable insights into the industry’s workings.
Art & DT
Visual art is just as much a part of our young people’s creative programme, and visitors to HCS will find students’ incredible paintings and sculptures showcased throughout the School.
Whichever artistic discipline your child chooses to pursue, we have the facilities to support them, from working on a fine art or textile project in our modern studio spaces to trying pottery in our dedicated ceramics workshop complete with onsite kiln – and always with the guidance of our expert staff.
Meanwhile, those with an inventive streak will be made welcome in our DT workshops, where students are able to master both traditional tools and work with the latest CAD software, laser cutters, 3D printers and more. With hands-on creativity encouraged from the start, our experienced staff will support your child’s ambitions as they build everything from boomboxes and buzz games to guitars, desks and chicken coops.
The school also fosters connections between current students, alumni and professional artists, facilitating workshops and after-school talks where pupils can gain valuable insights to help guide their future paths in the creative industries.
