Opportunities to learn
KINDER AND PRIMARY SCHOOL
STUDENTS at Fahan School have the opportunity to learn through innovative performing arts projects that put joy at the centre of their creative endeavour.
Students from the Junior School are given opportunities to be part of a number of performing arts projects.
This year students in Prep to Year 2 have worked with Senior School drama teacher Christine Best to create their own project, Tree Tales.
Ms Best ensured that the students’ ideas were central to the performance, with the main focus being the creation and building of the narrative.
Student involvement in the process is integral to the school’s philosophy, which is Reggio Emilia-based, encouraging thinking, questioning and discussing to inspire creativity.
As students move through the Junior School into Year 3-6, they hone their skills and take on increasing levels of responsibility in the annual production.
This year the performance is a musical theatre production of Peter Pan, specifically adapted for young performers. Younger students make up the choir and dance ensembles with Year 6 girls in lead roles and Year 5 girls in supporting ones.
“Getting our costumes and microphones has been great,” said Year 6 student Poppy Kennett, who plays Wendy.
“I’ve especially enjoyed learning all the songs and dances and working with a professional choreographer.”
“I’ve liked working with the younger girls and teaching them things,” said Year 6 student Jewel Hurst, who plays Mrs Darling.
Support from a backstage team of Senior School students is an example of the advantages of Fahan’s shared Kindergarten to Year 12 campus.
Year 10 student Chloe Abel has been able to develop music production skills learnt as part of her course work. “I put the microphones on the girls and work in the tech box,” she said.
“Having professionals guiding me as I gain technical experience has been really valuable.”
Arts co-ordinator Ann Tremayne said that the projects went far beyond just singing and dancing.
“The students work as a team and build confidence,” Mrs Tremayne said.
“It’s all about the journey.”
Fahan School was established at Sandy Bay in 1935 by Isobel Travers and Audrey Morphett, two women with progressive ideas on education. For more information or to inquire about enrolment, contact Mary Marino or Laura Bird on 6225 1064 or send an email to enquiries@ fahan.tas.edu.au