Parents and pupils have spoken out after reports that Newfield Secondary School, in Norton Lees, are planning to lessen teaching time for creative art classes starting in September.

An online petition titled “Save our creative studies” has gathered nearly a thousand signatures since being uploaded at the end of April.

Concerns arose following rumours that the school’s Drama and Music classes will be shortened for a “carousel model”, as well as, Computing and Technology classes for years 7, 8 and 9.

In an email sent to parents on May 6, Newfield school said these changes were made following concerns over pupil performance in core subjects. The school said that “Over 63 per cent of pupils left last year without English and Maths good passes” and some are “unable to access CGSE content” due to their reading and maths not meeting expected levels.

To address this, more teaching time will be dedicated to Maths and English classes.

Supporters of the petition argue that drama and art are lifelines for many students, more importantly those with difficult home lives. 

One parent commented: “My child has SEND, anxiety and has some difficult situations happening in their personal home life but music and drama are what keeps them going.”

A former student of the Newfield school also shared the long-term impact the arts had on their life. They said: “I studied at Newfield until 2017. Drama and music were my favourite subjects! I play in a band now as an adult and music is a huge part of my life. School is where I gained confidence and passion for music and drama. Kids need creative outlets.”

A number of posters calling to “Save Drama” and “Save Music” have been spotted outside the school.

Dozens of students staged a walkout last week via a WhatsApp to express their opposition. T

The school has not responded with comment