Overview 

The Music curriculum is a practical experience which creates a love of music and an appreciation of different genres, styles and cultural influences. We want all pupils to experience the feeling of success and enjoy ‘making music’, having the opportunity and confidence to explore and perform music in many forms. We value the positive impact music can have on mental wellbeing and will endeavour to provide an ambition curriculum that provides a range of opportunities for pupils to experience music outside of the classroom, in the local community and beyond.    

Key Stage 3 

Over the three year curriculum, students should have experience of a wide range of musical genres and the great composers within them, and should have an understanding of the historical timeline. These include The Blues, Popular Music, Film Music, Video Game Music and an exploration of music from around The World. 

Students will also experience a range of instruments and will develop their skills and techniques over the 3 years: we will especially focus on Singing, Keyboard, Ukulele and Percussion.  

With these instrumental techniques and knowledge of musical styles there will be a focus in lessons on Performance and Composition and students will develop these skills and their confidence and creativity throughout the Key Stage. 

Key Stage 4 

Students will study BTEC Tech Award in Music Practice at Key Stage 4. The course provides opportunity for students to study a wide range of musical styles and genres, develop their skills, such as using musical elements, music creation, performance and music production, using realistic vocational contexts, and their personal skills, such as self-development, responding to a brief, planning and time management through a practical and skills-based approach to learning and assessment. 

Enrichment 

The Music Department believe that providing opportunities to learn in out-of-classroom contexts enhances students’ understanding and engagement, as well as developing the aspirations of students.  

Students have the opportunity to take Peripatetic lessons on a variety of instruments provided by the local music service NMPAT these include: Woodwind, Strings, Piano, Drums, Guitar, Singing and Music Production. 

Students can also take part in our extra-curricular activities such as Rock School, Abbeyfield Choir, Woodwind Club as well as the School Musical where they can either be on stage or in The Band. There are several performance opportunities throughout the year where students will be able to perform in Abbeyfield’s Theatre and develop their confidence and performance skills.