Visual and performing arts

Alongside the arts woven into the curriculum, SIS buzzes with creativity beyond the classroom. Students are encouraged to dive into a wide range of visual and performing arts activities – many of them imagined, organised, and led by the students themselves.

Music

Music is at the heart of life at SIS and often takes centre stage during our celebrations. A much-loved highlight is our December Lucia celebration, where music brings this cherished Swedish tradition to life. (SIS choirs have also been part of another enduring Swedish cultural highlight – ABBA, singing choral backing on two of their tracks).

End-of-term concerts are another firm favourite, drawing in performers from across the School and showcasing the talents of our whole community. Our choirs span junior to senior levels, and we even have a Parent-Teacher choir – because making music together shouldn’t stop at the classroom door.

Each spring, the School bursts into colour (and sound!) with our Spring Hat Parade. Imaginative headwear, creative flair, and a joyful musical soundtrack, carefully curated by our music teachers, make it a true celebration of the season.

SIS also uses music to engage with other schools. In 2025, we proudly hosted the Nordic Network Music Festival, welcoming other schools from across Scandinavia.

Another much-anticipated event is ‘The Battle of the Bands’. Now a highlight of the SIS calendar, this student-led competition sees each House put forward a band to compete for House points – and, of course, ultimate bragging rights.

Theatre

Theatre is part of the curriculum, but for students keen to take things further, our collaboration with the Scandinavian International Theatre School offers even more opportunities. Students aged 6–16 can explore acting, movement, and storytelling in English, building confidence, creativity, and teamwork – while having a lot of fun along the way.

Visual arts

Outside of art and design classes, many students are drawn to using visual arts as a powerful way to express themselves. Skills developed in class are used to explore personal experiences and engage with global issues through painting, sculpture, still and video photography, and a wide range of arts and crafts. Creativity at SIS is not just encouraged – it’s celebrated.

Arts in life at SIS

Music, performance, and visual art are an integral part of life at SIS

  • Art as expression

    From an early age our students use art to explore ideas, emotions, and interests.

  • Musical youth

    Students are encouraged to work on their own and collaboratively with their peers to develop their musical talents.

  • The Battle of the Bands

    This student-led initiative places some of the best of our musicians in friendly competition in a personal expression of their musical tastes.

  • Musicianship showcase

    Our large aula offers students the chance to play before a large audience of parents and peers.

  • Exhibitions

    Students explore their artistic vision in class and exhibit their creations in front of an audience of parents, staff, and other students.

  • Acting up

    Students learn performing and associated skills for dramatic presentations, including role-play exercises before an invited audience at our annual Nobel event.

  • Celebrations at SIS

    Music plays an important role throughout the year. Student choirs, ensembles, and individual performers contribute to seasonal celebrations.