In our Music curriculum we believe we are able to foster the talents and ambitions of all our young people through a knowledge-rich curriculum. We have faith in our actions and trust our judgement as we are safe in the knowledge our curriculum is broad, challenging and will holistically develop our students.
Providing every child with a vibrant, creative, cultural Musical experience is the foundation of the Music department. At the forefront of all our planning is an inclusive music curriculum which impacts on the life of every pupil. We provide a stimulating, creative learning environment in which students perform, compose, and listen & appraise a wide range of music – from varied times and varied cultures. Students learn about the music industry and are encouraged towards professions within it.
Performance is the cornerstone of being a musician and a key focus within our curriculum; therefore, students perform pieces written by established composers alongside their own composition work. We encourage all students to become involved within the wider life of Music; both within school and the community. Students have a varied musical diet throughout key stage 3 using a range of equipment such as keyboards, pop and rock instruments, and Samba percussion instruments. Students have opportunities to regularly review their learning in a verbal manner to ensure they are grasping key ideas before moving on. Feedback from staff is given in the moment and students are expected to act upon it straight away. This is a constant process in practical Music lessons.
As students develop their group work skills, we expect them to work in break out spaces encouraging ownership over their learning whilst reinforcing key Music skills. Throughout KS3 we encourage students to become creative thinkers who are able to adapt to of challenges, preparing for their future. At KS4 focusses on delivering Eduqas GCSE Music, where students develop their appraisal, performance, and composition skills – all of which are part of the essential diet of a 21st century professional musician.
All students are encouraged to become involved in extracurricular Music activities which take place during or after the school day along with performing in the many concerts and performance opportunities throughout the year. We have three choirs; each suited for students’ needs at various stages of their voice changes. We have a number of lunchtime clubs to provide for budding rock and pop musicians, individually or in ensembles, and we also run an annual school musical theatre production with our school dance and drama departments. All extra-curricular music focuses heavily on teamwork, and the students have leadership opportunities in years 9 and 10.