The Transformative Power of Performing Arts at Parsons Green Prep

At Parsons Green Prep the performing arts are an integral part of school life and a powerful force in pupils’ personal development. Through specialist teaching in drama, performing arts and LAMDA, our children grow as creative, collaborative and confident learners. Their participation in school productions, assemblies, poetry competitions, plays and music concerts enriches their learning even further, offering experiences that nurture both skill and character. Rehearsing for a performance – whether a class assembly or a whole‑school production – helps pupils develop vital life skills. They learn to listen closely, respond thoughtfully and work as part of a team. Memorising lines requires discipline and focus and pupils develop strategies to retain complex information, skills that will support them well beyond their time at school.

Bring the story to life

Equally important is the joy of stepping into a character’s shoes, using their imagination and bringing a story to life. These experiences are not confined to the school’s stage. Across the curriculum drama plays a central role in daily learning. In English pupils re‑enact scenes from the books they read, in history they bring past events to life and in science and humanities they imagine themselves as archaeologists, astronauts or detectives. Exploring the motivations of fictional or historical figures encourages empathy and deepens understanding.

Outside the comfort zone

Even our youngest learners embrace imaginative journeys in the ‘Around the World’ club, exploring cultures and environments through role play. One of the most profound outcomes of performing arts is confidence. Children in Reception naturally embrace role play and rhyme and as they move into Pre-Prep and the Prep school, they begin developing public‑speaking skills in a gentle, supportive way. Whether speaking lines on stage or presenting ideas to a group, pupils learn to step outside their comfort zones, building resilience and self-belief.

All about teamwork

Productions also foster collaboration; every performance relies on a collective effort, where each child contributes something unique. Working together strengthens communication, cooperation and shared responsibility – skills that help children navigate challenges both in and out of school. At Parsons Green Prep we value drama for its ability to inspire creativity, emotional intelligence and a sense of community, which provide lifelong benefits.

Preparing for the future

The confidence gained from performing – first through imagined characters, later through real‑world communication – helps prepare pupils for whatever paths they choose in the future. It is no surprise, then, that performing arts hold such significance at Parsons Green Prep. So much so that Attenborough House has chosen to support the Fiorentini Foundation Performing Arts Charity in their fundraising efforts – a wonderful reflection of the value our community places on creativity, expression and the arts.

Dr Pamela Edmonds,

Head – Parsons Green Prep