Where confidence finds its voice.

Music, dance, drama and the visual arts, from first expression in FS1 to specialist showcases in Senior.

Creative and performing arts at SRI

Self-expression from day one.

Creativity is where confidence finds its voice. At GEMS School of Research and Innovation, every child is given the opportunity to discover and express their unique voice through music, dance, drama and the visual arts.

For our students creativity isn’t just about performance. Self-expression starts from FS1 at SRI. Music, storytelling and expressive arts are woven into everyday activities, helping them develop confidence and pursue a passion from their very first year. By Year 2 onward, Performing Arts becomes a weekly commitment. Students are encouraged to perform, write, compose and direct across media, guided by our Trailblazer CAPA enrichment curriculum.

Welcome from the Director

Nick Huntington.

Director of Performing & Creative Arts

Nick brings over 20 years’ experience in UK independent schools to his role as Director of Performing and Creative Arts at SRI. Formerly Director of Drama at Wellington College, his department was shortlisted for an Outstanding Drama Department award. A published playwright and senior A-Level examiner, Nick combines curriculum expertise with a passion for creativity, collaboration, and emotional intelligence to lead an inclusive, innovative Arts programme.

Creative performance and arts practice at SRI
Students rehearsing and performing through SRI creative arts partnerships

Industry Partnerships

Profession into the classroom.

SRI students benefit from an exceptional network of industry and educational partners who help bring professional practice directly into school life. Through collaborations with West End Stage, Urdang International, Italia Conti Dubai, Turning Pointe, Hip Hop Cardio, GEMS Premier Music Academy, Inspire Singing Academy & Nikon Photography and emerging creative industry partners, students access specialist teaching, masterclasses, performances, productions, one-to-one tuition and industry experiences throughout the year.
These partnerships form part of our commitment to providing authentic pathways into the creative industries, enabling students to learn from working professionals while developing the skills, confidence and professional habits needed for future success. Our Special Advisors extend this further: Nile Rodgers for Music and Performing Arts, and Carlos Acosta for Performing Arts, both bringing direct experience at the highest level of their craft.

Beyond the Timetable

Trailblazer and co-curricular CAPA.

CAPA at SRI runs well beyond the timetable through our Trailblazer Curriculum. In the early years, students take on roles across a full SRI news broadcast in Trailcasters, blend ballet and commercial dance in Fusion Dance, or build musical theatre skills in Rising Stars with Urdang International.

Through Prep, students progress into Speech and Drama (the LAMDA Introductory Pathway), Screen Acting, Hip Hop, MiniMix Masters and School of Rock.

By Senior school, students choose specialist pathways such as Acting for Stage, 3D Art, Glee Music Video, Media: PodSquad, and Dance Technique, each culminating in a genuine showcase, from a Drama Festival performance to a curated gallery exhibition or a published podcast episode.

Students exploring CAPA Trailblazer pathways

Moments shared

Moments still to be shared.

Continue exploring

Campus, clubs and innovation.

Explore co-curricular pathways, or continue into Innovation & Future Readiness.