The Spotlight Shines Bright - Leigh Academy Dartford

A Module of Performing Arts Magic at Leigh Academy Dartford!

What a module it’s been for the performing arts at Leigh Academy Dartford! From the first tentative steps onto the stage to the dazzling lights of the West End, our students have embraced the magic of theatre, dance and music with incredible enthusiasm. We’ve seen creativity flourish, confidence soar and a true appreciation for the power of performance ignite within our school community.

Let’s take a look back at some of the fantastic events from Module 6 that have truly put our students “Centre Stage”!

Stepping into the Spotlight: A Taste of Centre Stage Theatre Academy

Imagine the buzz in the air as students got a “flavour” of what next year’s performing arts clubs will hold, thanks to the brilliant workshops run by Centre Stage Theatre Academy. It was an absolute joy to see our children from across the year groups dive headfirst into the world of musical theatre with a 30-minute Matilda workshop.

A group of children, likely students in school uniforms, are gathered in a spacious room, possibly a school hall. An adult, likely a teacher, is standing in front of some of the children. They appear to be engaged in an organized activity or lesson. A long mural or display with images and text is visible on the wall.

From the iconic “Revolting Children” to the heartwarming “When I Grow Up,” students explored choreography, character and storytelling, all while having an absolute blast. These workshops provided a fantastic taster- sparking curiosity and excitement for the deeper dives into drama, dance and singing that await them in the coming academic year. It was clear from the beaming smiles and energetic moves that a future generation of performers is ready to take the stage!

From Covent Garden to the Classrooms of Leigh Academy Dartford: Our Royal Opera House Create Day Adventure!

Module 6 also saw our Key Stage 2 students embark on an extraordinary journey into the world of ballet and opera through our participation in the Royal Opera House (ROH) Create Day 2025. This incredible initiative, in collaboration with UNICEF UK’s Rights Respecting Schools Award, was so much more than just a day of creative exploration- it was a powerful lesson in cultural capital and universal themes.

Our students had an unparalleled opportunity to broaden their cultural experiences, delving into the rich tapestry of ballet and opera. They explored how universal themes – such as justice, freedom, and identity – can be creatively expressed through the arts. This unique collaboration also allowed us to weave in important discussions around the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, demonstrating how artistic expression can be a powerful tool for understanding and advocating for these fundamental rights. It was a day that truly enriched their understanding of the world, both on and off the stage.

Three children are standing indoors, each holding a crafted item. The child on the left and the child on the right are holding small, decorated boxes. The child in the middle is holding a blue and white creation, possibly a diorama or a piece of art. They appear to be presenting their work.

Defying Gravity: Year 4 Takes on Wicked!

And finally, a huge highlight of the term was the unforgettable trip for our Year 4 students to see Wicked at the Apollo Victoria in London! This was a truly fantastic chance for our students to experience the magic of the West End firsthand.

From the moment the curtain rose, they were captivated by the incredible storytelling, breathtaking performances and unforgettable music that make Wicked one of the most popular productions in theatre history. Seeing Elphaba defy gravity and Glinda sparkle on stage was an inspirational experience, showcasing the pinnacle of live performance. It was a powerful reminder of the dedication, talent and sheer artistry involved in creating such a spectacular show, and undoubtedly sparked dreams of their own future performances.

Two mannequins are on display, each wearing an elaborate costume. One costume is a pink, ruffled dress, and the other is a dark, textured, possibly organic-looking garment. The lighting in the scene is green. This looks like a costume display, possibly for a theatrical production.

This image shows a stage set, likely for a theatrical performance. A large map titled "The Land of Oz" is projected or painted onto the backdrop, and a large, dragon-like prop hangs above it. The set design features gears and industrial elements. This strongly suggests a scene from a production of "Wicked" or a similar show set in the world of Oz.

What a Performance!

Module 6 has truly been a testament to the power of the performing arts at Leigh Academy Dartford. From the joy of discovering new talents in the Matilda workshops, to the cultural enrichment of the ROH Create Day and the sheer wonder of a West End show, our students have had a term filled with unforgettable experiences.

A large group of children, likely students, are gathered indoors, possibly in a school hall or gymnasium. They are all raising their arms above their heads. There's a large mural or display on the wall behind them that appears to be a timeline.

We are incredibly proud of their enthusiasm, their creativity and their willingness to step into the spotlight. The performing arts are a vital part of our curriculum, fostering not just artistic skills, but also confidence, teamwork and an appreciation for diverse forms of expression.

We can’t wait to see what amazing performances and artistic journeys await our students in the future! Stay tuned for more updates from the stage at Leigh Academy Dartford!