ISJ pupil performing violin at the Christmas concert

School Life

Arts, Music and Drama

Every child at ISJ explores music, art, and drama from their first week. These are part of the curriculum, taught by specialists, and taken as seriously as any academic subject.

Art and Design

Seeing the World Differently

Drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking, textiles, digital art. The specialist art studio is where children learn techniques, develop their own voice, and discover that creativity is a way of thinking, not just a skill.

Children are encouraged to experiment and take risks. The creative process matters as much as the finished piece. Artwork is displayed throughout the school campus, and pupils contribute to exhibitions and collaborative projects throughout the year.

ISJ pupil painting at an easel
ISJ school choir singing in blazers and ties

Music

From First Notes to the Stage

All pupils receive specialist music teaching from their first week. Classroom lessons develop rhythm, pitch, and musical literacy. The peripatetic programme offers individual and small-group tuition in piano, violin, guitar, drums, and more.

Pupils perform regularly: in assemblies, termly concerts, and annual showcase events. The Christmas concert, with children in blazers performing violin under stage lights, is one of the highlights of the school year. Music builds confidence and stage presence alongside musical skill.

"A lovely campus with great teachers... it makes the place more joyful."

ISJ Parent

Annual Survey, November 2025

Drama

Confidence, Empathy, Voice

All pupils take part in drama as part of the curriculum. They learn to project their voice, work as a team, and bring stories to life. Opportunities range from class assemblies to full-scale productions in The Hall.

Annual school productions bring the whole community together. Pupils take acting, singing, and backstage roles. Drama at ISJ builds the confidence to speak up, the creativity to imagine new possibilities, and the empathy to understand different perspectives — qualities central to the character and values programme.