We have a range of opportunities provided to WRPS students outside the classroom.
Instrumental Lessons
Our Instrumental Program continues to grow. Instrumental lessons are made available to Stage 2 and 3 students on a range of instruments, individually and in small groups.
Benefits of having instrumental lessons at the school include:-
· Lower costs than most lessons outside of school
· Convenience for parents and carers who do not have to ‘fit' lessons in outside of school hours
· A stronger connection between tutors and school to ensure we maximise the opportunities for our students to be involved in ensembles and performances.
Instrumental lessons are provided on the instruments listed below. Instrument hire is available for some instruments if you do not have access to an instrument of your own.
WOODWIND – flute, clarinet, saxophone, oboe
STRING – violin, viola, cello
BRASS – trumpet, trombone, euphonium
Expert tuition is provided by the Northern Rivers Conservatorium ‘Music In Schools’ Program.
Concert Band
The WRPS Concert Band provides an opportunity for those receiving instrumental lessons to hone their skills as part of a larger ensemble. Students are expected to incorporate band music into their weekly practice schedule. Since beginning in 2016, this band has performed at a number of school events and participated in a workshop day with students from St George Girls High School. More experienced students also participate in the Lismore Performing Arts Festival Combined Primary Schools Concert Band and are invited to join the DET Extension Band.
Beginner Instrumental Ensemble
This ensemble is provided as a bridging ensemble in Terms 3 and 4 for those students who have begun lessons in this calendar year, in preparation for their transition into our larger, formal ensembles. Students work within their capabilities to practise playing with other instruments and within the framework of a large ensemble.
String Ensemble
Our String Ensemble is working to develop ensemble playing skills for our violin and cello students. This enthusiastic group is has begun public performances this year, including a very successful recital at the Lismore Performing Arts Festival.
Primary Choir
The Primary Choir is open to all students from Grades 3-6. This choir performs a range of music arranged especially for primary voices and from a wide variety of genres including musical theatre, folk and popular music. This choir performs at a range of events and functions including our school ANZAC Day Service, Relay for Life, Life Education Media Launch, Lismore Performing Arts Festival, local preschools and other school events. Participation in this choir also provides opportunities for more experienced voices to explore solo and part singing.
Stage 1 Choir
The Stage 1 Choir is open to students from Grades 1 and 2. This choir performs a range of music arranged especially for young voices. This choir aims to provide a positive introduction to formal ensemble singing and always provides an enthusiastic (and very cute) performance.
Debating – Miss Eakin
Our school has two debating teams which participate in the Premier's Debating Challenge for Years 5 and 6. This is a state-wide competition with over 800 teams participating. The teams participate in a round-robin competition of 4 rounds followed by a knock-out. The students have one hour unassisted preparation in which the four team members work together to develop their arguments without a teacher and then debate their given topic.
Senior Dance Ensemble - Miss McLaughlin
The Senior Dance Ensemble is open to Stage 3 girls and boys through an audition process each year. Students are exposed to a range of learning and performance opportunities. Students have performed at the Far North Coast Dance Festival, Lismore Performing Arts Festival, Education Week celebrations, school assemblies and other events.