Visual and Performing Art Secondary Guide

Study level Secondary Schools

Programme overview

What this programme is about

A sketch, a performance or a piece of music can begin as a rough idea and become something much more deliberate through practice and revision.

The exact combination varies by school. You might work with drawing, painting, sculpture, theatre, music, dance or several of these areas.

Practical work is central, but so is reflection. You learn to explain choices, respond to feedback and connect creative work with cultural or historical context.

Rehearsal and revision can be just as important as the final performance or artwork.

Creative subjects often look effortless from the outside, yet strong work is usually the result of repeated practice, experimentation and correction.

This pathway can prepare you for later study in fine art, design, theatre, music, film, education or other creative fields.

What you'll study

Inside the curriculum

Drawing Painting Sculpture Drama Music Dance Art History Creative Development Portfolio Work

The exact curriculum varies by institution, but these subjects show the formal curriculum areas connected to this programme.

Core

Mathematics Social Studies English Language General Science Physical Education and Health

Required

Art and Design Foundation

Elective

Art and Design Studio Design Communication Technology Music Performing Arts

Optional

Agriculture Chemistry Computer Science Physics Additional Mathematics Agricultural Science ICT Christian Religious Studies Islamic Religious Studies Religious and Moral Education Geography Government Economics Accounting

Core capabilities

Skills you'll build

Creative Expression Drawing or Making Performance Rehearsal Discipline Visual Communication Presentation Portfolio Development Collaboration

Career directions

Where this can take you

Visual Artist

Performer

Graphic Designer

Art Teacher

Theatre Assistant

Musician

Creative Assistant

Gallery Assistant

What to expect

What studying this programme is like

Visual-art work may include drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking or mixed media depending on available facilities.

Performing-arts components can involve drama, music, dance or performance production. Art history and cultural studies help you understand creative work in context rather than treating it as isolated technique.

Portfolio development teaches you to select, refine and present your strongest work.

Performance students may also develop rehearsal discipline, stage confidence and collaborative skills.

Across both visual and performing routes, you learn to turn an idea into a finished piece that communicates with an audience.

Is this likely to suit you?

Good fit if you...

You enjoy making or performing creative work.
You are open to critique and revision.
You like practical projects.
You may want a creative university or vocational pathway.
You are willing to practise regularly.

Think twice if you...

You want a subject with very little practical work.
You dislike feedback or revision.
You expect creativity to require no discipline.
You have little interest in visual or performing culture.

Admissions

Entry requirements

Requirements depend on the school and education system. Visual and Performing Art may be offered as a pathway, elective or combination of creative subjects. Previous formal art training is not always required, though interest and practical participation are important. Always check the school's subject options, facilities and progression requirements.

Common questions

Does the programme include both visual and performing arts?

That depends on the school. Some combine several disciplines, while others let you specialise.

Do I need a portfolio?

Secondary entry may not require one, but portfolio work often becomes important for later creative study.

Will I perform in front of people?

Performing-arts components commonly include rehearsals and public or assessed performances.

Can this lead to design study?

Yes. Visual-art experience can support later design and creative programmes.

Is creativity the only skill that matters?

No. Practice, technique, reflection and collaboration are also important.

Visual and Performing Art