EDUCATION
SUTTON VALENCE PREP SCHOOL : A VERY CREATIVE EDUCATION
Sutton Valence Prep School in Maidstone has achieved the prestigious Artsmark Award in Gold from the Arts Council , recognising the school ’ s excellence in art , drama , music and culture . After a two-year journey of preparation and in-depth submissions , the arts provision of the school was deemed to be worthy of the accolade during the summer of 2023 .
From the age of two , in our Little Lambs nursery , through to Pre-Prep ( reception , and years 1 and 2 ) and Prep School ( years 3 to 6 ), our children are immersed in all things creative . A number of impressive drama productions are staged each year , giving students of all ages the chance to appear , with access to LAMDA examinations . The majority of pupils learn a musical instrument , confidently performing in termly informal soloist concerts and regularly in local St Michael ’ s Church , the Chapel of St Peter at Sutton Valence Senior School and external competitions and venues . A love of art is instilled from an early age , while older children receive a broad and advanced education in both modern and classical art , including a variety of guest workshops from working artists and craftsmen , and exhibitions .
Headmaster , Mr Mark Scholey , says of the honour : “ We are considerably proud of the diverse and advanced programme of drama , art and music delivered at Sutton Valence Prep School , and we are delighted to have had that love for the arts and our passionate approach to creativity accredited by the Arts Council . While academic study and sport contribute hugely to school life here at SVPS , our programme of drama productions , LAMDA lessons , emphasis on learning about a wide range of artists , design and technology projects , music tuition and concert performances bring vibrancy and joy to each child , at all levels of ability .”
Head of art , design and technology , Mrs Andrea Savage , who was instrumental in the application process , explains : “ At Sutton Valence Prep School , we strongly
believe that each child is an artist – everyone has a talent or interest that can be nurtured , whether that is on stage , sitting at a piano , or in the field of design . The Art Room is a safe space , supporting pupils ’ wellbeing as they express themselves , often while listening to classical music , experiencing workshops from professional artists , or being inspired by the greats .”
Dr Darren Henley CBE , chief executive of the Arts Council , said : “ I would like to congratulate Sutton Valence Prep School on their Artsmark Award . Becoming an Artsmark school demonstrates that through offering a broad , ambitious and creative curriculum , every pupil can develop character and resilience , increasing the knowledge , curiosity and skills that will remain with them through to adult life .”
Artsmark is celebrating its 20th year as the only creative quality standard for schools and education settings . Artsmark is accredited by Arts Council England . Sutton Valence Prep School is now striving to maintain and further improve its excellent and ambitious offering of arts and culture . You can watch a short promotional video about the school ’ s journey to Artsmark Gold status at www . youtube . com / watch ? v = UFtey40Me _ s .
Sutton Valence Prep School is based in Chart Sutton , Maidstone , and includes an onsite nursery building , Little Lambs . Its sister site , Sutton Valence School , takes pupils from the age of 11 to 18 as day pupils , or with full- and part-time boarding options available .
For more information , find the school on Instagram at @ suttonvalenceprepschool and @ suttonvalenceschool . You can also watch videos about life at our Prep and Senior Schools at www . youtube . com / suttonvalenceschool .
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