ST DUNSTAN'S COLLEGE

Pre-School News

ST DUNSTAN'S COLLEGE

Pre-School News

ttt25

To Inspire So That All Flourish

ST DUNSTAN'S COLLEGE

Michaelmas Term: Issue 16

Why Pre-School Concerts Matter

As the season of concerts approaches, it often stirs up a mixed bag of emotions for teachers: anticipation, excitement and yes, sometimes even nerves. It brings weeks of practices, countless tweaks and the occasional last-minute change because something “just did not feel right.” Then there are the unforgettable surprises, the child who bursts into their own version of Jingle Bells mid-song, the one who breaks into the Macarena during a serious recital or the little star waving enthusiastically at Granny in the front row. Sometimes, we even get the brave soul who announces, “I need the toilet!” the very moment the lights go up.

Behind the giggles, nerves and occasional chaos lies the deeper purpose of Pre-School concerts. They are not simply about a polished performance, they are about growth, courage and the celebration of childhood When a Pre-Schooler steps onto the stage, they are stepping into courage. For many, it is their very first experience standing in front of an audience. That moment of bravery, singing out, remembering a move or simply smiling at the crowd, plants seeds of confidence that grow far beyond the concert itself. It tells a child “I can do this. My voice matters. I am capable.”

Concerts also nurture essential skills that are gently woven into every practice. Children practice patience as they wait for their turn, strengthen memory as they recall songs or lines and develop coordination as they link actions with music. They learn to listen carefully, follow cues and take their place in something bigger than themselves. These are not only performance skills, they are life skills that will support their learning for years to come.

Equally important is the sense of togetherness concerts foster. Every child has a role, whether leading or standing proudly alongside friends. Together, they create something meaningful, an experience filled with teamwork, encouragement and shared delight. Most importantly, concerts celebrate childhood. These fleeting years are filled with wonder and innocence, and a concert captures that perfectly. A costume that sparks imagination, a song that lights up a little face, a wave from the stage that melts a parent/guardian’s heart, these are moments that cannot be measured but will be treasured forever.

As pianist Ignacy Jan Paderewski once said: “The very essence of art is joy” and that is exactly what Pre-School concerts bring, joy in its purest form. For children, parents/guardians and teachers alike, they are not just events on the calendar; they are milestones in the journey of growing up, memories that will live on long after the stage lights dim.

The Benefits of Pre-School Concerts

  • Confidence – Children discover courage in stepping onto a stage and sharing their voice.
  • Life Skills – From listening and following cues to expressing themselves, concerts nurture skills they use daily.
  • Memory and Patience – Repetition teaches them to remember songs, lines and routines while waiting their turn.
  • Teamwork and Belonging – Each child learns they are part of something bigger and that every role matters.

Get ready for more than just a performance. It will be an unforgettable experience filled with laughter, pride and wonder. Watch as your little one discovers bravery they did not know they had, shines in ways that surprise you and creates memories that will warm your heart for years to come.

This year’s concert might just be the moment your child finds a love for music, movement or simply believing in themselves. Be ready to cheer, to smile and to be amazed, because the magic of childhood is about to take centre stage! We look forward to seeing you at our Pre-School Christmas Concert, which will be held on Monday the 10th of November, Wednesday the 12 of November and Friday the 14 of November. The Pre-School staff are currently in the planning and preparation stages, and we cannot wait to share the magic of this special event with you.

Mrs Charmaine Janse Van Rensburg
GRADE 0 TEACHER | LEMUR CLASS