Arts College Status

The school was designated a Specialist Arts College in September 2002 and re-designated from September 2006 .

As a result, additional current funding is made available annually to provide opportunity and experience in the performing arts for all pupils.

An initial building programme established better facilities for drama, dance, music and music technology.

All pupils in Year 7 are offered a trial period of free instrumental tuition and many go on to learn to play instruments to a high standard.

Opportunities exist within and beyond the classroom in all branches of the performing and visual arts and cross-curricular enrichment experiences are provided annually.

Dance, Drama and Music are available as examination subjects along with Advanced Level Music Technology in the Sixth Form and students from other local high schools enjoy the school’s performing arts facilities and teaching.

The specialist status also enables the school to support its Catholic feeder primary schools financially and each has been able to invest heavily in equipment to enhance the performing arts, enjoy additional specialist teaching and take part in collaborative and individual performing arts ventures.

As a consequence, several thousands of pupils have enjoyed workshops and professional performances given by our many arts college partners (which include the New Victoria Theatre, Dance Xchange, City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra and professional artists, dancers and actors in residence) in order to develop ‘confidence through creativity’.

Many pupils represent the school in regional and county ensembles and the school has become a centre of excellence in this sphere.

As a tribute to the success of our specialist status - and the hard work and commitment of both pupils and staff - the school has twice been awarded Artsmark Gold by the Arts Council, England.

We believe that your son or daughter’s creative interests will be well catered for at Blessed William Howard School.