Overview

Music is taught to all pupils in years 7, 8 and 9 in tutor groups for 50 minutes per week. Pupils are split into 2 bands within each tutor group based on previous experience and ability. All teaching is based upon the requirements of the national curriculum, using a variety of different teaching styles. However, music is a practical subject and the majority of teaching is based upon practical music making, giving the pupils the opportunity to learn through experience and marrying intra and extra curricular activities where appropriate.

Pupils are given the opportunity to work individually and collaboratively, both in and out of the classroom, developing their social skills, creativity and awareness.

Areas covered include a wide variety of music from both the western and non-western cultures. As far as possible these styles are realised practically using a variety of different mediums, from keyboards to classroom percussion instruments to Indonesian Angklung.

Currently in years 10 and 11 music is taught as an option to GCSE following the AQA specification, for 3 x 50 minute sessions per week.

All GCSE students are encouraged to take an active part in the music department developing their skills in rehearsing, directing, performing and composing. They6 are also advised to take full advantage of and attend the study support sessions that are ran after school on a weekly basis.

The music department also contributes to the delivery of the Expressive Arts GCSE to year 10 and 11 students.

From September 2004 the department also offers provision at Post 16 for students to take AS and A level Music and Music Technology following the Edexcel specifications.