General Arts Programmes

Explore how GAP (Art) and GAP (Music) help students use creativity as a lens to understand the world and express themselves.

Last updated 8 July 2026

The General Arts (Art/Music) Programmes, or GAP (Art) and GAP (Music) in JH1 and JH2 aim to provide an enriched learning experience as part of students’ holistic development. All lower JH students are introduced to key concepts and skills in both art and music, and progressively develop a deeper understanding of these aesthetic domains.

GAP (Art) and GAP (Music) are designed to help students see art or music not just as a subject, but as lenses through which they interpret and shape their understanding of the world. Students also develop an awareness of how art and music influence and are influenced by the social and cultural contexts in which they live. Through this learning, students are encouraged to use art and music as forms of self-expression and communication.

Guided by passionate teachers trained in these disciplines, students learn through discovery within an inclusive and supportive environment. The programmes focus on nurturing curiosity, creative expression, collaborative learning, strengthening visual and aural literacy, and fostering cultural appreciation. Opportunities for inquiry and collaboration are embedded within lessons to enrich students’ learning experiences and cultivate a lasting appreciation of the arts.

GAP (Art)

GAP (Art) is designed with the aim of nurturing openness, the relevance of art in everyday life, and the "dare to try" spirit through experimentation and exposure to various art forms and media. Students’ learning is anchored in hands-on making and engagement with real-world authentic tasks, such as the creation of artworks for school events e.g. the biennial SISTEMIC Conference and the Funtasia Funfair.

Teacher raises hand by projector screen as students in red-and-white uniforms sit at tables in a classroom.

A young girl with glasses draws in a sketchbook at a green cutting mat desk in a classroom.

GAP (Music)

GAP (Music) focuses on hands-on music making, collaborative ensemble playing, and critical engagement with different kinds of music. Students will examine not just what makes music sound good, but also how it works, and how it functions in society. They will have opportunities to perform their own cover songs and learn new instruments!

Four students sit on a wooden floor playing ukuleles in a music room with shelves and cases behind.

Group of students in matching uniforms in a music room, holding guitar, ukulele, xylophone, cajon.