Creative and Performing Arts

The arts are integral to a well-rounded education and the overall wellbeing of students. They promote collaborative learning and have been shown to offer academic, physical, emotional and social benefits. Our commitment to the arts is evident not only in the curriculum but also through a range of co-curricular activities available. Opportunities cater to students of all ability levels and includes music tuition, performance groups (bands, ensembles, choirs), expert Art tuition and musical theatre opportunities. Engaging in the arts also helps students develop the discipline necessary for performance and other areas of life, fostering creativity and talent that may require extra commitment beyond the core curriculum. Various production and performance activities offer real-life experience across a range of arts genres at the school.

Art Tuition

Art Fusion, open to students from Kindergarten to Year 6, offers a vibrant journey through various artistic expressions, from drawing and sketching to the intricate world of Japanese art and street graffiti art. Guided by professional artists, students develop creativity, problem-solving skills, and cultural awareness, preparing them to view the world through a creative lens. For students in Years 7-12, our Artist in Residence program provides an immersive experience where they can refine their artistic talents under the mentorship of accomplished artists, fostering a deeper appreciation and mastery of the visual arts.

Concert, Jazz and Big Bands

Senior Jazz Ensemble Year 9-12
Concert Band Year 7-12

Dance and Drama Ensembles

Primary Dance Ensemble Year 4-6
Primary Drama Ensemble Year 4-6

Instrumental and Vocal Tuition

NGS offers a comprehensive range of instrumental and vocal lessons for students from Kindergarten to Year 12. Students can choose 30-minute weekly lessons with a variety of instruments, including woodwind, brass, and string instruments, as well as voice training. Lessons are tailored to each student’s needs, providing a rich and diverse musical education that helps them grow as musicians and performers.

Instrumental Hire

NGS offers a comprehensive instrument hire program, ensuring that all hired instruments are well-maintained and perform at their best. Students can hire a variety of woodwind, brass, and string instruments, with the responsibility for their care and maintenance, fostering a sense of accountability and respect for musical equipment.

Orchestral Ensembles

Primary Junior String Ensemble Year 2-4
Primary Senior String Ensemble Year 5-6
Secondary String Ensemble Year 7-12
Symphony Orchestra Year 7-12

Rock Bands

Alternative Music Performance and Development (AMPD) Year 7-12

School Productions

Our school productions provide Primary and Secondary students with a unique opportunity to showcase their talents in acting, music, and dance. These productions foster creativity, collaboration, and confidence, allowing students to explore their artistic interests while developing essential performance skills.

Small Instrumental Ensembles

Chamber Ensembles

Vocal Ensembles

Primary Choir Year 3-6
Secondary Choir Year 7-12

Other Performance Opportunities

NGS offers students numerous opportunities to perform and experience music through various events and programs. Students can participate in assemblies such as the Leaders’ Induction Service and the Year 12 Awards Assembly, as well as chapel services like the Primary Easter Service and the Year 12 Valedictory and Eucharist. Additionally, they can attend camps like the HICES Music Festival for Years 5-12 and compete in eisteddfods and festivals, including the Australian School Band and Orchestra Festival (ASBOF) and the Hunter Region Band Association Events. These experiences foster a rich and diverse musical education, allowing students to showcase their talents and grow as musicians.