Creative Arts at Sherborne Boys
Encouraging expression, excellence, and imagination.
At Sherborne, creativity is celebrated in all its forms. Whether on stage, in the studio, or behind the scenes, boys are encouraged to take creative risks, think independently, and explore ideas with confidence and curiosity.
Through Drama, Art, and Design Technology, boys develop skills that go far beyond the curriculum – shaping their ability to innovate, collaborate, and express themselves with originality and purpose.
A Culture of Creativity
The creative arts are not just part of the curriculum – they are a vital part of life at Sherborne.
They give boys the chance to explore who they are, what they think, and how they see the world.
These experiences foster resilience, empathy, and a spirit of inquiry that stays with boys for life. In every painting, performance, or prototype, boys are learning to communicate, connect, and lead with imagination.
Creative thinking is encouraged in every corner of the School – because we believe it matters in every walk of life.
Drama
Sherborne has a long and distinguished theatrical tradition, with alumni including Sir Richard Eyre, Jeremy Irons, and Hugh Bonneville. That legacy continues to inspire boys at every stage – from their first performance to their final audition.
Drama plays a dynamic role in School life. Alongside house plays and smaller productions, Sherborne regularly stages large-scale joint performances with Sherborne Girls. These shows range in style and genre, giving every boy the chance to take part – whether acting, directing, or supporting behind the scenes.
Drama is a popular academic subject, with boys achieving outstanding results at GCSE and A level.
Former pupils have gone on to study at leading universities and drama schools, with many returning to share their experience with current pupils.
LAMDA tuition is available for those wishing to develop their speech and performance skills further.
Scholars are nurtured through a bespoke programme designed to elevate their technique and leadership, while regular workshops with professional actors, directors, and producers ensure that boys experience the industry at first hand.
Sherborne has also taken shows to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, where pupils have received excellent reviews – gaining confidence and insight into one of the world’s most demanding creative environments.
Drama at Sherborne is not just about performance – it’s about identity, confidence, and the shared joy of telling stories. It is a source of great pride, and a powerful expression of who we are as a School.
Art & Design
The Art and Design departments form a creative hub at Sherborne – open, collaborative, and driven by a strong culture of making.
Art encourages boys to explore ideas, develop visual fluency, and experiment with a wide range of media. In Design Technology, boys apply their creativity to solve real- world problems, bringing design thinking to life in tangible, functional outcomes.
These two disciplines complement each other – and the departments work closely together, sharing ideas, expertise, and a passion for innovation. Staff are practising artists and designers, creating an environment that feels more like a studio than a classroom.
Boys have access to excellent facilities, including well-equipped studios and workshops open during the day and at weekends. Many boys choose to work independently in their free time – developing personal projects, building portfolios, and taking ownership of their creative growth.
Sherborne pupils produce exceptional work across all year groups, with GCSE and A level submissions regularly earning top grades.
Artistic achievement is celebrated in exhibitions, around School, and in the pages of The Shirburnian. Each year, our creative output reflects the individuality and imagination of the boys themselves.
Where Next?
