Creative Arts and Technologies
Technologies and Digital Solutions
The study of Technologies promotes student engagement with technology and its capacity to address real world problems. The curriculum incorporates knowledge from the fields of information technology and computing, architecture, engineering and design. Technologies is based in the school’s Link precinct which is equipped with Maker Spaces, Art studios, Robotics, 3D printers, a laser cutter, and a range of design software.
In Years 7-10 the Technologies curriculum teaches students a human-centred approach to investigating the world around them, identifying needs, and developing innovative technology-based solutions. Students work individually and in teams using creative problem-solving strategies such as Design Thinking. They sketch, digitally model, role-play and construct numerous prototypes.
In the senior years, Digital Solutions enables students to learn about algorithms, computer languages and user interfaces through generating digital solutions to problems. Students engage with data, information and applications to create digital solutions that filter and present data in timely and efficient ways while understanding the need to encrypt and protect data. They understand computing’s personal, local and global impact, and the issues associated with the ethical integration of technology into our daily lives.
Music
The study of Music encourages love of music, confidence in music-making and self-expression, and knowledge of musicology, composition and performance. The study of authentic music develops students’ cultural, historical, aesthetic and technological awareness.
In years 7 all students study Music. In years 8-10 students can elect to study Music as a sequential and developmental program which incorporates music thinking, performing, hearing, composing and improvising, reading and writing. They learn rhythmic and melodic concepts and encounter a broad range of music styles and traditions. Students also systematically encounter music theory, integrated with music-making.
In the senior years, Music students develop their musicianship and apply musical elements and concepts through composition, performance and musicology. Music Extension is available for Year 12 students who are passionate about pursuing their studies in Music.
The Music Extension program is suited to independently motivated students working towards auditioned entry to tertiary education or higher-level examinations.
St Aidan’s also offers an extensive range of performance opportunities and co-curricular music groups. These include chamber groups, concert band, choirs, strings ensembles and private lessons.
Visual Art
Visual Art offers opportunities for the development of the imagination, personal expression, emotional responses, higher-order thinking and creative problem solving. Students create different meanings and messages while responding visually to their environment through processes such as drawing, painting, printmaking, sewing and textile techniques, mixed-media, sculpture and digital (time-based) media.
All Year 7 students study Visual Art. In Years 8-10 the elective course is structured around critical literacy, creative thinking and metacognition through experiential and self-reflective learning. Topics may include art and science connections, art and nature, surreal forms, fabrics and fashion, memory and subjectivity, imagined landscapes. All units include the study of artists to develop aesthetic, cultural, historical and conceptual understandings.
In the senior years, Visual Art students use their creativity to experiment with visual language and expression. The school’s art studios are equipped to enable students to pursue a range of individual making projects in 2d, 3d and multimedia forms.
Student work is exhibited in the yearly “Glow” festival. St Aidan’s students have also been selected for exhibits such as the Creative Generation Awards in Visual Art, QIEU Art and Design Awards, and the Creative Generation Residency Program.
Drama
The study of Drama enables exploration, social criticism, celebration and entertainment, and fosters creative, empathetic and intellectual expression. The study of Drama enables students to actively participate in an experiential mode of learning that blends intellectual and emotional experience. This offers a unique means of enquiry that contributes to knowing and understanding themselves and their world.
In Year 7 all students study Drama. In years 8-10 students can elect the subject. Units of work develop students' understanding of performance texts and techniques, incorporating improvisation, physical theatre, script work, directing, and analysis of live performance.
In the senior years, Drama students create and respond to dramatic works, developing their critical, creative and expressive potential. Students have opportunities to work with industry professionals, and to present their work to public audiences.