At Christ College Brecon, the music and drama department have always been inclusive, offering opportunities for both girls and boys across all year groups, from Year 3 through to Year 13.

From age 7 to 14, pupils receive dedicated music lessons from specialist teachers, with many going on to study music at GCSE and A Level. Beyond the classroom, a busy programme of rehearsals is held each week in mixed groups, led by expert visiting teachers. These include ensembles for wind, guitar, percussion, brass, and strings, and the school encourages participation based on skill rather than age. This allows talented younger pupils to perform alongside older mentors, enriching the experience for all. 

Musicians have the chance to perform at formal concerts, celebrations, and services, held in the beautiful 13^th century school chapel and Brecon Cathedral, just a short walk from the school. 

As a small school, with approx. 380 pupils, Christ College can tailor programmes to the individual needs of each musician, depending on their age, potential and future goals. Pupils have the flexibility to study with the teacher of their choice, ensuring they can take full advantage of the many opportunities available during their time at school. 

Kurumi, a music scholar in Year 12, has been involved in music since joining Christ College aged 11. “I have been exposed to so many different and new opportunities, as well as support to focus on my violin studies in preparation for externally adjudicated competitions. I am now thinking of studying music at Oxford when I leave school.” 

The drama department offers pupils the opportunity to develop their confidence, self-belief, public speaking, and performance skills through drama lessons integrated into their academic curriculum. Additionally, pupils can further refine their talents by taking LAMDA lessons. Currently, around 20% of pupils in Years 9–13 participate in private lessons, along with 25% of pupils in the Prep School.

The co-curricular programme at the school offers a variety of opportunities to develop their skills even further. This includes the senior school production, which this year was ‘Shrek the Musical’, providing many students the chance to take on a leading role, developing their acting, dance and singing skills. The annual Creative Arts Showcase is an evening dedicated to celebrating talent and providing the opportunity for music and drama scholars to present their works. Louisa who has recently joined Christ College in the sixth form will perform during the showcase. 

Louisa says, “Christ College supports and promotes all aspects of performing with shows and concerts. I am a member of the Choir and Chamber Choir and I take BTEC Performing Arts alongside three other A Levels. I hope to pursue an acting career in the future and I think that the Performing Arts course, scholarship programme and the extra-curricular activities available are helping me to gain more experience in creative arts.”

This year, Christ College has seen an increase in girls joining the technical crew for the senior production, with a focus on training in set construction, lighting, sound, and stagehand duties. Helisent, a Year 9 pupil, not only took on the role of Fiona in her first senior production but was also a key member of the stage crew. Helisent, is also preparing to take her Grade 6 Acting solo exam this summer. 

Pupils at Christ College have the opportunity to work with professionals in the industry, such as Frantic Assembly, Squire Stage Combat, Splendid Productions and actors who are actively working on stage.   

House competitions are also a highlight across the school, with the House Music and Singing taking place in the Michaelmas Term, and the Prep School hosting their Eisteddfod in March. For the senior girls' houses, this is not only a competition against each other but also an opportunity to give the boys a run for their money! In the Lent Term, the House Speech and Drama competition will provide the opportunity for pupils to develop their directorial skills by taking on the role of the drama representative for their houses. 

Christ College Brecon provides an all-round education for boys and girls, with day pupils joining from age 4, and boarding pupils from age 10-18. 

The school was featured in the prestigious Tatler Schools Guide 2024 and 2025; “For a small school it’s very diverse, with pupils from all over the world making the most of its strong spirit, outstanding teaching, fantastic facilities, and celebration of all-rounders.” The Tatler Schools Guide 2024