Music plays a very important role here at Ballyclare Primary School. Children enjoy making music using lots of different instruments, including our class sets of glockenspiels. We have weekly lessons for every child following the ‘Charanga’ music programme in which children explore and make music within a range of contemporary and classical music genres. 

From P5 onwards our children have the opportunity to learn piano, string, brass and woodwind instruments through the peripatetic music service and private tutors. Our small ensemble groups enjoy performing throughout the year, including during our Christmas carol service and local musical festivals. We also have a large and very successful choir that performs at events throughout the year in school and in our local community. The Choir attend the Ballyclare Music Festival every year and have enjoyed many successes at this event. 

Art for most pupils is a natural form of expression and a source of great pleasure. We encourage children to develop their creative and imaginative talents through learning skills and techniques using a variety of materials and tools. From time to time, pupils have the opportunity to work with professional artists and craftspeople. They learn to appreciate works of art and use artistic language to describe paintings, sculptures and other artefacts. Art lessons are based around our topics and contribute to a holistic approach to learning.

Children are also encouraged in the dramatic arts as part of the normal curriculum and through participation in school assemblies, concerts, and productions, including our Primary 1 nativity and Primary 7 Leavers’ production. We recognise the importance of drama developing pupils’ confidence and ability to express themselves in creative ways.