A significant importance is placed on allowing children to express themselves creatively at Ashdown. We believe every child should be given the opportunity to develop their talent and achieve success on the stage playing music, acting or in the Art and DT departments.

In the curriculum, we offer Art, DT, Music and Drama, making certain that every child has the opportunity to fulfil their natural talent in these subjects. Much academic success stems from the realisation that every child (and adult) needs to release their creativity and be given the opportunity to express themselves individually or collectively.

Art and DT are immensely popular subjects and this is seen by the amount of Art work we display in the school. Both these departments enable all children to gain experience in using a variety of media. Extra clubs and activities are also laid on for the children to spend more time creating and completing various projects.

Every year group performs one drama production a year in the school theatre. The 1s (year 8s) perform a staggering three plays in their final year hence giving everyone the opportunity to grab a piece of the spotlight. As well as acting, there is ample opportunity to get involved in costume design, back stage, set design and lighting. Recent productions have been as wide ranging as ‘The Taming of the Shrew’ through 'Charlie & the Chocolate Factory', to plays written by the Ashdown staff which include the legendary, annual tradition of the ‘Mock Trial’.

Music is an integral part of the school. Every class has one music lesson a week whilst many children learn at least one musical instrument. The Chapel Choir, the School Choir, the Orchestra, String Group, Brass Group and impromptu rock bands all give a wide variety and choice for children to hone their musical skills.

Whatever their talent, grade or level, we always urge every child to perform on stage in front of the school. You can guarantee the rest of the school will roar their approval and support.

The Carol Service, School Concerts and the Leavers' Musical Production all provide memorable occasions with much of the school community coming together and showcasing the talent that exists here at Ashdown.

Our children have performed at Glyndebourne and a couple of years ago those children who performed in Hansel & Gretel at Glyndebourne also had the privilege of doing so at the Proms at the Royal Albert Hall.