Positive masculinity through the Arts

Headmaster's Blog

During the course of last week and over the weekend students and staff, and a good number of supporting parents, of both Scotch College and PLC put on a six-show season of School of Rock – The Musical.  I sat in awe at both of the performances I attended, ensuring I got the full experience of the two different casts.

The experience highlighted for me the crucial role the performing arts play in the holistic development of all students, but potentially even more so in single-gender educational settings such as our all-boy independent school. Engaging in drama, music, and dance provides a unique platform for young men to explore and express their emotions, fostering a sense of empathy and emotional intelligence. This emotional literacy is integral to the formation of positive masculinity, where strength is equated not with stoicism but with the ability to be vulnerable and connect with others.

Incorporating the performing arts into the curriculum and the co-curriculum supports the development of key character traits such as confidence, resilience, and teamwork. As students collaborate on performances, they learn the value of mutual support and the importance of working together towards a common goal, skills that are transferable to any future career or personal endeavour. The arts also encourage boys to step out of their comfort zones, challenging them to take risks and embrace creativity, which can lead to innovative problem-solving and a growth mindset.

Moreover, the performing arts can serve as a conduit for exploring and understanding diverse perspectives, contributing to a well-rounded character. Through the portrayal of different roles and narratives, students can gain insights into lives and experiences different from their own, promoting inclusivity and tolerance. This broadened worldview is essential in nurturing leaders who are not only confident in their abilities but are also compassionate and considerate global citizens.

Furthermore, the discipline required in the performing arts – from rehearsing lines to perfecting dance sequences or musical pieces – instils a sense of dedication and perseverance. The performing arts provide a safe space for boys to develop these traits, away from the competitive pressures often associated with sports and academics in male-dominated environments.

Recent studies have underscored the significance of performing arts in fostering character development and positive masculinity in boys' education. For instance, a review on personality change through arts education suggests that drama education can enhance traits such as extraversion, cooperation, and emotional stability, which are pivotal in shaping a young man's character.

Moreover, research indicates that drama and theatre education can aid in the emotional development of children, helping them to understand and manage their emotions more effectively. This is particularly beneficial in all-boys schools where emotional literacy is a critical component of positive masculinity. Additionally, performing arts education has been linked to confident participation and social development, providing students with broader social opportunities and an environment conducive to learning and practicing social skills.

The benefits of the performing arts extend beyond the individual to the school community. Performances bring together students, staff, and families, fostering a sense of unity and school spirit. This communal aspect of the arts can reinforce the school's values and ethos, contributing to a positive and supportive school culture.

In conclusion, the integration of the performing arts in all schools is not merely an extracurricular activity; it is a vital component of education that nurtures the development of character. By providing opportunities for self-expression, collaboration, and personal growth, the performing arts equip young men with the emotional and social tools necessary to navigate the complexities of modern society with grace and integrity.

Research and educational philosophy aside, anyone who had the pleasure of being in the audience at any one of the School of Rock performances can bear witness to the fact that education through the arts certainly helps in moulding young men who are not only academically proficient but also emotionally intelligent and socially responsible, and the embodiment of Our Mission.

To develop young men with strength of character, self-understanding, a passion for sustained learning and spiritual inquiry who will become active members of the global community

Brad Gill
Acting Headmaster