Learning
Performing Arts
At Pakenham Secondary College, the Performing Arts inspire creativity, build confidence, and foster teamwork, giving students the opportunity to express themselves and connect with others through the power of performance.
The Performing Arts programs at Pakenham Secondary College are designed to provide every student with the opportunity to think creatively, collaborate with others, develop discipline, and take risks in a supportive and inclusive environment. Regardless of their background or experience, all students are encouraged to experience the transformative power of the Arts. Our annual calendar is packed with exciting opportunities, offering a variety of ways for students to engage with this dynamic part of our College community.
All of our students study classroom Drama and Music in Years 7 and 8 as well as being available as electives and VCE subjects in Years 9 - 12.
Drama
At Pakenham Secondary College, the Drama program follows the Victorian Curriculum for Years 7 to 10, focusing on building students' creativity, critical thinking, and performance skills. Students explore drama through improvisation, role-play, and scripted work, developing their characterisation, voice, and movement. They engage with various drama styles, including naturalistic and non-naturalistic, while reflecting on their performances. Key areas include responding to drama, creating performances, using stagecraft techniques, and working together with peers. Students are assessed through practical performances, group projects, and written reflections. The program helps students build confidence, teamwork, and communication, preparing them for further study in the arts.
Music
Our Music program allows students to develop both performance skills and an understanding of music theory. From Years 7 to 10, students explore different genres of music, create and perform songs, and improve their listening abilities. The program encourages creativity, self-expression, and teamwork as students perform individually and in groups, exploring music elements such as rhythm, melody, and harmony. They also learn about the history and cultural significance of music. Through hands-on experiences with instruments, technology, and vocal techniques, students create and perform music while receiving feedback on their progress. The program fosters musical development, critical thinking, and collaboration, preparing students for further study and careers in music and the arts.
In this section
College Production
One of our biggest programs is our College Production. With auditions starting in February and curtains closing in late August, this long-term project has the power to bring the community together. Students from all year levels dedicate countless hours to a common goal – whether it's sending Dorothy down the Yellow Brick Road in our rendition of the classic musical 'The Wizard of Oz', or taking a pop culture trip down memory lane with our fabulous production of 'Back to the 80s'.
Instrumental Music and Band
The Instrumental Music and Band program at Pakenham Secondary College is open to all students, and we are thrilled to see enrolments grow each year. Students have the opportunity to learn voice, piano, bass, guitar, and drums, with the Performing Arts Centre constantly buzzing with music. The lessons are free for students to join. The band also meets every Thursday lunchtime for rehearsals, collaborating to create music together. With new teachers joining the team to support the increasing enrolments, we look forward to the continued expansion of the program in 2025.
Malthouse Theatre: Suitcase Series
In 2024, our Performing Arts program offered some exciting opportunities for Year 9 and 10 students, including the chance to participate in the popular "Suitcase Series."
Thanks to funding from the Morris Blackburn Fund and Malthouse Theatre Melbourne, students created an original performance addressing the issue of climate change. Over many hours, they wrote satirical, witty scripts set in a post-apocalyptic world called "After."
The 20-minute performance had the audience flicking through different TV channels, using humor to explore the reality of climate change. From boy band parodies to infomercials for post-apocalyptic Barbies, the students created a remarkable show that used comedy to deliver a powerful message.
The performance was showcased on stage at Malthouse Theatre, allowing students to share their work with peers from across Victoria.
This experience was an incredible opportunity, and we look forward to continuing our involvement with the program for years to come.
Victorian State Schools Spectacular
In 2024, our school once again proudly participated in the Victorian State Schools Spectacular (VSSS), a major event that brings together talented students from across the state to showcase their skills in dance, music, and performance.
One of our students, James Nimaya, returned as the Principal Dancer for the second consecutive year and alongside him, 16 extraordinarily talented mass dancers from our school took part in the event. Two of our students were also involved behind the scenes, contributing to the success of the performance.
The dancers followed a demanding rehearsal schedule, meeting twice weekly at school to practice their choreography, as well as joining hub rehearsals with other schools throughout the year. These rehearsals not only sharpened their dance abilities but also allowed the students to collaborate, build teamwork, and forge new friendships. Their hard work culminated in a 3-day camp in Melbourne, where they spent two full days rehearsing at John Cain Arena in preparation for the grand event.
On September 14th, the students performed breathtaking routines that left the audience in awe. The dedication and passion displayed by our students in the 2024 Victorian State Schools Spectacular made our school community immensely proud, and we eagerly await our continued participation in this prestigious event, in 2025 and beyond.
James Nimaya, PSC student performing at the 2024 Victorian State Schools Spectacular as Principal Dancer.