Music

The Music curriculum is aspirational because, not only does it allow students to explore their world of expression, but it also opens-up key employability skills. The sole use of team building within our framework allows students to understand the concept of teamwork and communication, presenting their ideas with confidence and resilience. The use of listening and appraising in Music theory allows students to develop an understanding of communication, and what this might look like for an employer. The focus is to ensure that students complete their studies having learnt how to compose, devise, appraise, empathise, collaborate and create performances, encouraging them to think outside the box. The music department also explores cultural issues and historical periods. This in turn can allow for a deeper understanding of world affairs and an appreciation beyond the classroom.  

The Music curriculum serves our pupils by building a classroom community through group work and ensemble performances. Students are given ample opportunity to play a variety of different musical instruments to encourage communication in the classroom and teamwork. Instruments are changed every term to challenge their learning. Music at Manshead is fully inclusive as it allows every child to work creatively in a safe and supportive environment. Offering various opportunities to develop confidence as an individual and performer. 

The Music department allows our students to flourish by supporting creative development in extracurricular opportunities and shows. The department hosts two concerts each year [Christmas and Summer] which is an opportunity for all students to showcase their skills as musicians/performers. This in turn will support student’s instrumental journeys and celebrate their strengths as musicians. Furthermore, as a department we encourage students to make full use of our practice rooms at break, lunch and afterschool. Besides the clubs we offer students will use these rooms as a way of practicing their instrument or developing something new with a friend.  

Sequencing in Music is specifically centred around each student's development towards confidence and key musical skills. Lessons are tailored by year group, building on previous knowledge and instrumental development. The idea is for each student in KS3 to leave with a basic understanding of practical, theory and technology, preparing them for their journey into KS4. Additionally, all units are designed across two half terms to allow extra time to experiment and explore new experiences.  

Adaptive teaching in Music  

This is a key strand towards our goal into a fully inclusive curriculum. Lessons are designed to be accessible for all whilst also offering every student the opportunity to create. With a broad and balanced curriculum music allows students to experiment regardless of their musical background. We do this by providing differentiated resources and scaffolding.  Adaptive teaching is also shared within our assessments, to include a combination of self/peer feedback, clear success criteria, modelling and regular assessments to check for understanding. We also focus heavily on group work and independent work.  

Spirituality in Music 

One of the key strands of Spirituality is creativity; enhancing one's innermost thoughts and feelings. Music allows practical opportunities for students to think of their own ideas, leading to a journey of self-discovery/independence.  Music also makes accurate links between subjects like Maths, Drama and History focusing solely on processes, and how music was created. This allows students full exposure into their development as creative thinkers. Additionally, music explores world affairs by creating links to a wide range of cultures and religions. This in turn will allow students to see music in a different light thus fostering an understanding and appreciation across cultures.  

Forming relationships in music allows students to work with peers, reflect and share ideas. Being a practical subject, music is at the forefront of team building and learning how to work together. This gives students an understanding of how other people think/feel thus deepening their understanding of human emotion. Additionally, music allows students to form relationships through teaching. Peer teaching is a great way for students to showcase their skills as an instrumentalist whilst supporting new students on their journey.  

Learning beyond the classroom  

Music is designed to extend learning through:  

Industry Visits and trips  

Students acknowledge the Music industry and different Job roles  

Expert teaching from professionals 

Students get independent support from trained Musicians Online Resources 

Access to digital platforms and resources enables continuous learning and exploration of the subject matter at home.