Creative and Performing Arts
Creative and Performing Arts
The Creative and Performing Arts Faculty at Hurlstone empowers students to explore their creativity, develop their talents, express themselves through music, drama, and visual arts, and to build skills and confidence that last a lifetime.
Our Creative and Performing Arts (CAPA) Faculty supports students to build a deep appreciation and skillset across music, drama, and visual arts, while fostering creativity, confidence, and self-expression.
Through performance, exhibitions, and ensemble work, students connect artistic practice to real-world audiences, gaining authentic experiences that showcase their talents and develop collaboration and communication skills. A strong emphasis is placed on practical, hands-on learning, where students create, perform, and refine their work in supportive and dynamic environments.
Creative and Performing Arts are studied by all students from Years 7–10, with opportunities to specialise further through senior electives in Years 11 and 12. These pathways combine rigorous academic study with authentic creative experiences, preparing students for success at university, in the arts industry, and as confident, expressive contributors to their communities.
Teaching and Learning
Below you’ll find an overview of the courses provided by the Creative and Performing Arts Faculty from Year 7 to Year 12, showcasing how students build knowledge, skills, and hands-on experience across music, drama, and visual arts.
Music
Music is a powerful form of personal and cultural expression, connecting students to global traditions while allowing them to develop their own creative voice. Through performing, composing, and listening, students explore music across cultures, times, and genres — including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander music and the diverse influences that shape Australian identity.
Students engage practically with the elements of music by singing, playing instruments, improvising, composing, reading notation, and using digital technologies. This hands-on learning builds both aural and theoretical skills while fostering creativity, confidence, and collaboration. In the senior years, students can specialise further, developing advanced musical literacy and deepening their understanding of the cultural, aesthetic, and social impact of music.
Studying Music at Hurlstone supports intellectual growth, creative problem-solving, and emotional expression. The skills gained extend far beyond the classroom, preparing students for a wide range of pathways in the arts, education, industry, and beyond.
Courses delivered at our school include:
- Stage 4 Music
- Stage 5 Elective Music
- Preliminary and HSC Music 1
- Preliminary and HSC Music 2
- HSC Extension Music
Click here to access further information on our Music courses.
Visual Arts
Visual Arts provides students with opportunities to explore and interpret the world through creative expression. Students engage in art making, critical study, and art history, developing practical skills alongside an understanding of the cultural, social, and historical contexts that shape artistic practice. They learn to reflect on their own work and the work of others, gaining independence as artists while developing creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
Students explore diverse artistic traditions, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural expressions, and connect with both historical and contemporary artworld practices. This fosters empathy, cultural awareness, and an appreciation for the role of art in shaping communities and human experience.
In the senior years, students can specialise further, building advanced knowledge and technical skills that prepare them for future studies and careers. The study of Visual Arts supports personal growth, wellbeing, and innovation, equipping students with the confidence and creativity to thrive in an increasingly visual and connected world.
Courses delivered at our school include:
- Stage 4 Visual Arts
- Stage 5 Elective Visual Arts
- Stage 5 Elective Photographic and Digital Media
- Preliminary HSC Ceramics
- Preliminary HSC Photography, Video and Digital Imaging
- Preliminary and HSC Visual Arts
Click here to access further information on our Visual Arts courses.
Support for High Potential Learners
Our CAPA Faculty nurtures high potential students in the creative arts by providing opportunities for advanced performance, exhibitions, and participation in regional and state showcases. Through personalised feedback and enrichment activities, students are encouraged to refine their artistic expression, creativity, and confidence. If your child shows high potential in any of the courses provided by the Creative and Performing Arts faculty, contact us to learn how our High potential and gifted education (HPGE) programs can support them to achieve at the highest levels.
Have a question for our Creative and Performing Arts Faculty?
Our friendly office team can help you get in touch.
Learning
Find out about our approach to learning and supporting students to progress.
Travel to school
Learn about local transport options and how to get here safely.