Curriculum

MUSIC

The study of music engages and inspires pupils to develop a love of different styles of music and nurture their talent as musicians. Music increases self-confidence, creativity and gives pupils a sense of achievement, so that they eventually develop a critical engagement with music, allowing them to compose, perform, listen and appraise.

Our music curriculum takes an integrated approach to the three main elements – performing, composing and understanding music. Teaching takes place in two purpose built classrooms, which include 2 class sets of electronic keyboards, practice rooms, a band room, a suite of 14 Apple iMacs with GarageBand software and a range of instruments such as guitars, bass, drums and percussion.

Curriculum Overview
Year 7 Year 8 Year 9

Schemes include:

  • Ensemble Skills
  • Rap and Hip Hop
  • Instrumentation
  • R n B
  • Structure
  • Music and Media

Schemes include:

  • The Blues
  • World Music
  • Reggae
  • Musical Hooks
  • Film Music
  • Percussion from around the world

Schemes include:

  • Music and Media
  • Dance and Electronic Music
  • Ensemble Performance Skills
  • Leitmotifs and Sound FX
  • Compositional Techniques
  • Musical Futures

BTEC Level 1/Level 2 Tech Award in Music

Component 1 Component 2 Component 3

Component 1: Exploring Musical Products and Styles (internally assessed)

Practical Skills including solo and ensemble skills.

Develop core practical skills through completion of solo and group practical work.

Component 2: Musical Skills Development (internally assessed)

Developing own skills on an instrument/voice/music technology of choice.

Improve technical ability through rehearsals and self-evaluation resulting in a polished and successful performance portfolio.

Component 3: Responding to a Commercial Music Brief (externally assessed)

Develop and present music in response to a commercial music brief.

Using relevant resources, skills and techniques to develop and create a performance, recording and DAW project.

Assessment

Internal assessments take place every half-term.

KS4 Exam Board Specification: BTEC Pearson

Enrichment Offer

The musical activities we offer currently include a pop and rock band. We also have a number of ensemble groups in all key stages. Students are encouraged to take part in school productions and performances where they have the opportunity to show off their vocal and instrumental skills. We also offer Music Intervention for BTEC students – this gives students a chance to have one to one feedback on work and to have extra support with any areas of the course that they need.

Rehearsals are usually one hour after school with extra rehearsals before particular performances.  School music groups contribute to events at the school such as showcases, productions and open evenings.

Useful Resources and Revision Support