Creative arts

In creative arts, students discover a variety of art forms through a study of dance, drama, music and visual arts.

The Creative and Performing Arts (CAPA) program is an essential part of our curriculum, providing students with the opportunity to explore their creativity, express themselves, and develop critical thinking skills that are transferable to all areas of life. 

The importance of arts education cannot be overstated. Studies have consistently shown that students engaged in the arts demonstrate improved academic performance, enhanced problem-solving abilities, and increased self-confidence. Through Music, Photography and Visual Arts, students learn to think creatively, communicate effectively, and collaborate with others—skills that are highly valued in today’s ever-changing world. 

Our CAPA program, at James Busby High School, is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in the arts. Our Music program offers students the chance to explore a wide range of musical genres, develop their performance skills, and gain an understanding of music theory and composition. Through individual and group performances, students build confidence and learn the importance of discipline and practice. 

In Visual Arts, students are encouraged to explore their artistic abilities through various media, including drawing, painting, sculpture, and digital art. Our curriculum is designed to foster creative expression while also teaching students the technical skills needed to produce high-quality work. The study of art history and contemporary practices allows students to place their work within a broader cultural context, deepening their understanding of the world around them. 

James Busby High School is committed to providing a supportive and nurturing environment where all students can thrive in the arts. Our dedicated faculty members are passionate about their subjects and are committed to helping each student reach their full potential. Through a combination of classroom instruction, workshops, and extracurricular activities, we offer students a rich and diverse arts education that prepares them for success in their future endeavours. 

Creative and Performing Arts program at James Busby High School is not just about developing artistic skills; it is about preparing students for life. We believe that a well-rounded education goes beyond traditional academic subjects to include the arts, which play a crucial role in developing the whole student. By fostering creativity, critical thinking, and a deep appreciation for the arts, we equip our students with the tools they need to succeed in an increasingly complex and interconnected world. 

In the creative and performing arts Students could explore and develop skills in various creative and performing arts disciplines, including Music, and Visual Arts. The CAPA faculty in this school is dedicated to nurturing critical and creative thinking, individual artistic expression, and a deep appreciation for the arts.

Visual Arts

Visual Arts education offers students a broad spectrum of experiences that span traditional and contemporary practices. Students engage in a variety of media and techniques, studying artists from different historical periods and cultural backgrounds. The curriculum emphasizes not only the development of technical skills but also the cultivation of a critical understanding of art in its many forms.

• Stage 4 (Years 7 and 8): Visual Arts is a mandatory course where students are introduced to foundational concepts in artmaking, including 2D, 3D, and 4D forms. Through practical and theoretical studies, students explore topics such as Abstract Design, Portraiture, and cultural traditions. They are also required to maintain a Visual Arts Process Diary (VAPD) to document their artistic journey.

• Stage 5 (Years 9 and 10): Students can choose Visual Arts as an elective, and they can delve deeper into specific areas like Photography. These courses encourage students to apply higher-order thinking skills and foster creativity in a supportive and intellectually stimulating environment.
• Stage 6 (Years 11 and 12): Advanced courses in Visual Arts allow students to develop a 'Body of Work' for the HSC. They also study critical and historical perspectives in the art world, gaining insights that inform their own artmaking practices.

Music

Music education in this school is designed to develop both practical skills in playing instruments and a theoretical understanding of music. Students learn to compose, listen, and perform across a range of musical styles, with opportunities to explore both collaborative and individual music-making.

• Year 7 and 8: Music is a mandatory subject where students experience a variety of instruments and musical styles. The curriculum covers foundational music theory and provides hands-on practice with instruments like guitars, keyboards, and drums.

• Stage 5 (Years 9 and 10): Elective music courses offer specialized pathways such as performance, composition, and sound production. Students who already play an instrument can choose advanced music classes, while those new to music can learn to play in a supportive environment.

• Stage 6 (Years 11 and 12): Senior students can pursue Music 1 or Music 2 courses, with the option to take Music Extension for advanced study in a chosen area like composition or musicology.

Photography 

The Photography program at James Busby High School offers students the opportunity to explore the art and science of capturing images. Through this course, students will develop a deep understanding of both traditional and contemporary photographic techniques. They will learn how to operate digital cameras, experiment with composition and lighting, and engage in post-production editing using industry-standard software. 

Key Learning Areas:

• Fundamentals of Photography: Students will be introduced to the basic principles of photography, including exposure, focus, and the use of natural and artificial light. 

• Camera Techniques: Practical sessions will guide students in mastering camera settings, lenses, and equipment to capture high-quality images.

• Composition and Design: This area focuses on developing students' ability to frame and compose visually compelling photographs, using elements of design such as line, shape, colour, and texture. 

• Digital Editing: Students will learn how to enhance and manipulate images using photo editing software, developing skills in colour correction, retouching, and creating digital composites.

• History and Theory of Photography: The program includes an exploration of the history of photography, iconic photographers, and the role of photography in contemporary society. 

• Creative Projects: Students will undertake various projects that encourage creativity, including portrait, landscape, documentary, and experimental photography.

Assessment: Students will be assessed through a combination of practical assignments, theoretical exams, and the presentation of a final portfolio. This portfolio will showcase their best work and demonstrate the skills and techniques acquired throughout the course. 

Career Pathways: This program prepares students for further studies in photography, visual arts, or related fields. It also equips them with the skills necessary for careers in photography, graphic design, media, and visual communication.

Stage 5 (Years 9 and 10) - Photographic and Digital Media 

Course Description: In Stage 5, students dive into the exciting world of Photographic and Digital Media. This elective allows students to explore both traditional and contemporary photographic practices, including film and digital photography. Through practical and theoretical work, students develop their technical skills in capturing and editing images while also analysing the cultural and historical significance of photography.

What Will Students Learn? 

• Technical Skills: Students will gain hands-on experience with cameras, lighting, and digital editing software, learning how to manipulate images to create compelling visual narratives.

• Artistic Expression: Students will explore the creative possibilities of photography, experimenting with composition, lighting, and subject matter to produce original works. 

• Critical Thinking: Students will study the work of significant photographers and movements, developing an understanding of how photography shapes and reflects society.

• Project Work: Throughout the course, students will create a portfolio of their work, which may include portraiture, landscape, still life, and conceptual photography. 

Assessment: Students will be assessed through a combination of practical projects, visual journals, and written tasks that demonstrate their understanding of photographic techniques and concepts.

Stage 6 (Years 11 and 12) - Photographic and Digital Media

Course Description: In Stage 6, students continue to develop their photographic skills with a focus on refining their techniques and conceptual understanding. This course is designed to prepare students for further studies or careers in the creative industries, providing them with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in photography.

What Will Students Learn?

• Advanced Techniques: Students will deepen their understanding of photographic principles, learning advanced camera techniques, post-production processes, and digital manipulation. 

• Concept Development: Students will engage in more complex projects, developing their ability to convey ideas and emotions through photographic imagery.

• Professional Practice: Students will learn about the photography industry, including ethical considerations, copyright issues, and the role of the photographer in society.

• Major Project: In their final year, students will complete a major project that showcases their skills and creativity. This project will form a significant part of their assessment and portfolio.

Assessment: Assessment in Stage 6 is based on the creation of a body of work, supported by a visual journal and written reflections. Students will also complete theoretical exams that test their knowledge of photographic history, theory, and practice.