Creative Arts

Music at Bedford provides an outstanding, vibrant and diverse experience for all pupils at every level. In every age-group, pupils are encouraged to develop their performing, composing, listening and analytical skills, with the aim of broadening their experience and understanding of as wide a range of music as possible.

Each week, over 24 ensembles rehearse in our dedicated music school, preparing for the 50 concerts held annually across a wide range of musical disciplines. From the prestigious Symphony Orchestra and New Jazz Collective to the 50-strong, fully-robed Chapel Choir, there are ensembles to suit every interest. Performances include Rock Night, Jazz Evening, lunchtime concerts, and the Creative Arts Festival. Supported by full time staff and a highly qualified team of visiting music teachers, many pupils go on to study music at Oxbridge and other leading institutions.

The thriving Art Department is a vibrant part of Bedford School life, giving pupils the space to express themselves and engage with the world around them in creative ways.

Pupils work across three core disciplines—painting, printmaking, and sculpture—each supported by its own specialist studio and taught by practising artists. Regular exhibitions are held in the school’s Foyer Gallery, while a vibrant programme of museum and gallery visits, annual study tours abroad, weekly life-drawing classes, and the Gilbert Lloyd Art Lecture series aims to inspire and engage all pupils, whether they study art or not. The annual Detweiler Art Competition offers a chance to exhibit and present work to the wider school community.

Those who take art at GCSE are encouraged to work with confidence and ambition, with the hope that their interest in art will last a lifetime. Many go on to study at leading universities and art colleges, pursuing courses in fine art, history of art, design, and architecture.

Drama at Bedford builds on a rich theatrical tradition, offering pupils a wide range of opportunities to act, study performance, and explore the technical side of theatre. Academic and practical work are carefully balanced, supported by an extensive co-curricular programme, which includes private and group LAMDA lessons. Experienced staff guide pupils through all aspects of theatre, encouraging broad participation across the board.

Each year, at least three major productions take place, alongside smaller student-directed pieces, and all drama students benefit from specialist workshops and regular theatre visits, both locally and in London. The technical crew, led by the Theatre Technical Manager, consists of pupils who learn to operate state-of-the-art sound and lighting equipment through bespoke lunchtime clubs. Design options are also available at GCSE for those keen to develop these skills further.

Drama students gain valuable transferable skills, particularly in collaboration and public speaking. Many go on to study theatre at university, and Bedford alumni can be found working across the industry—from stand-up comedy to blockbuster films.