Creative opportunities outside the classroom at Pangbourne encourage pupils to further explore the arts. We have a range of facilities and experienced staff which enable our community to get the most out of their creative pursuits.
With two studios and three specialist classrooms to explore print, ceramics and photography, Pangbourne’s Art Department is always buzzing with activity.
From pupils catching up on homework, to those exploring the subject more in-depth to develop their skills, there’s always something going on. It’s open during activity slots, during prep and after prep in the evenings.
Competitions and artwork displays are held as part of College life throughout the year. Pupils are also supported in taking their craft further, with one of our Sixth Formers having her work shortlisted for the Royal Academy of Arts A Level Summer Online Exhibition.
Annual A Level trips to the University of London for its Creative Processes Day gives pupils a glimpse into making a living in the industry and facing challenges as an artist or photographer through listening to famous guest speakers. On top of this, our Festival of Culture celebrates the best of Art, Music and Drama at Pangbourne through hosting a range of creative events over the duration of a week.
Design & Technology at Pangbourne College is a practical, purposeful and forward-looking department where pupils learn to design properly and manufacture to a high standard. We combine traditional workshop skills with modern digital manufacture, ensuring students develop real technical competence alongside creative thinking.
Our facilities support work across metals, woods and plastics, and the workshops are equipped with professional metalworking and woodworking machinery, as well as dedicated hot metal and welding facilities. Pupils are taught to work safely, accurately and independently, developing confidence through hands-on experience with industrial processes.
Alongside this, we make extensive use of CAD/CAM. Pupils design using industry-standard CAD software and manufacture their ideas using:
- Five 3D printers, capable of printing with carbon fibre filament
- A laser cutter for precision cutting and rapid prototyping
- A 2D CNC router for wood, allowing accurate and repeatable machining
This digital workflow allows students to move from concept to finished component efficiently and professionally, mirroring modern industry practice. The department is staffed by three specialist teachers and supported by a full-time technician, ensuring excellent supervision and technical support. The Head of Department brings recent industrial experience to the classroom, having completed an 18-month sabbatical working in industry to refresh and extend his skills. This ensures that teaching reflects current manufacturing methods and expectations.
Beyond the classroom, pupils are encouraged to get involved in co-curricular projects.
Car Club is currently restoring a Bond Equipe, giving students valuable experience in mechanical systems, restoration and problem solving.
In Greenpower Racing Club, pupils design and build an electric race car to compete in Greenpower events, applying engineering principles in a competitive and collaborative environment.
Workshops are open during prep sessions, and Sixth Form students are encouraged to spend additional time in the department, making full use of the facilities to develop their coursework and refine their practical skills. We also maintain a well-stocked design library to support academic research and project development.
Design & Technology at Pangbourne College is about developing capable, independent designers and engineers — pupils who understand materials, processes and technology, and who can confidently turn ideas into well-made
outcomes.
Outside of drama classes, productions enable pupils the opportunity to showcase their talents as actors and technicians. Pupils are also able to take Trinity exams from Grade 3-8 to formally develop their acting skills.
Three annual plays take place at Pangbourne: a whole school College production, a Year 7 and 8 play, and a Year 9 production. We also have the student-led Inter Divisional Drama Competition and performances from our KS3 Drama Club, 'The Pangbourne Players'.
Each year, pupils in all year groups attend a variety of Theatre productions to develop their enthusiasm for performance.
Further information on music at Pangbourne can be found on the dedicated web pages linked below:
