Expressive Arts

The Expressive Arts curriculum aims to inspire students to embrace a love of learning as well as to obtain skills and knowledge to make them experts in the subjects of Art, Drama, Music and Textiles. We teach a robust and varied curriculum, which enables all to access, achieve and become masters, finding their niche within the Arts.  

At Irlam and Cadishead Academy, we want students to feel welcomed and cared for, in addition to becoming independent and thriving learners. We study carefully sequenced mini projects throughout the years of KS3 across all Expressive Arts subjects, which enable students to experiment in workshop lessons and be independent with personal outcomes.  

The curriculum is sequenced for students to build upon and gain knowledge and skills throughout KS3, with work being developed from KS4 GCSE Art and Design, GCSE Music and BTEC Performing Arts criteria, enabling students to access the KS4 curriculum seamlessly and become masters in understanding the criteria used to make progress.  

We are passionate about inspiring our students with life beyond school, promoting high aspirations for every one of our students. The faculty have fostered numerous community links with local charities and MAPAS, a Music and Performing Arts company in Salford, to develop students’ character and provide wider opportunities for students learning outside the classroom. The addition of sixth form college links for the arts, provides further opportunities to discuss future courses and pathways with students to support their options.  

The Expressive Arts Department are committed and fervent in promoting strong ethical values, character building and a love of learning. We strive to foster a sense of community with our students, staff and parents, offering co-curricular clubs and safe spaces to students during non-directed time. Our curriculum is rich and diverse, promoting a range of cultures and providing further opportunities for our students to better appreciate the wider world. 

Careers in Expressive Arts

It can be difficult to see how your school subjects relate to future jobs. However, when you make your Options choices in Year 9, it can influence and determine your career pathway, and the choices you make in the next stages of your education.

Should you wish to explore careers in Art further, here are some interesting websites to help your research:

discovercreative.careers 

www.screenskills.com 

www.thecreativeindustries.org.uk

Should you wish to explore careers in Drama further, here are some interesting websites to help your research:

discovercreative.careers

www.onedanceuk.org 

www.ukmusic.org

www.careersinmusic.co.uk 

www.getintotheatre.org

www.cdmt.org.uk