Every young learner’s creative journey is unique. That is why Tanglin places a strong emphasis on personalised pathways across all of the arts — visual art, music, drama, and dance. This approach reflects our strategic vision to provide dynamic, enjoyable and challenging opportunities in the Arts to nurture creativity, individuality, and growth that extends well beyond the classroom.

With the opening of our new Junior Arts Centre, this vision is becoming a reality. In Term 3 2026, 163 students auditioned for the newly established Academy: Arts (Years 5–6).  My sincere thanks go to Benjamin Walker (Assistant Head Co-Curriculum) and our dedicated Arts teams for pulling this together at the end of a very busy inspection week.  

While our existing CCAs continue to give all Junior children the chance to explore the arts, Academy: Arts offers a personalised pathway for those with exceptional interest and skill, providing a more focused and challenging experience. We have offered personalised pathways in music for some time, and Academy: Arts now extends similar opportunities to dance, drama, and art, enabling children to further explore and develop their creativity alongside the existing CCA programme.

Auditions are valuable learning experiences helping our children develop confidence, resilience, and a sense of responsibility. Through preparing and presenting an audition, our students learn how to set goals, practise consistently, and perform under pressure — important life skills that extend far beyond the arts. Auditions also teach self-discipline and perseverance, as children discover that improvement comes from effort and reflection. They learn to accept feedback positively, celebrate others’ successes, and understand that not every opportunity results in selection — a healthy way to build emotional maturity.

Most importantly, auditions give students a chance to showcase their individual passion, recognise their own strengths and map out their next steps. All those who took part should feel justifiably proud of their growth as young artists.

We will continue to nurture creativity, build confidence, and create a sense of ownership in their learning. Our personalised pathways aim to support and celebrate the diverse talents within our community while inspiring a lifelong engagement with the arts.

Clair Harrington-Wilcox
Head of Junior School