About

All students in Years 7, 8 and 9 study Music as part of their provision within the Creative and Performing Arts faculty. In KS4 Music is a popular optional subject. The Music department has three well equipped classrooms each with an Interactive Whiteboard. There is also a computer suite with audio interfaces and a recording studio. The classrooms host a range of instruments including; two class sets of electronic keyboards, tuned and un-tuned Western/World percussion, a baby grand piano, a range of ‘band’ equipment, two digital multi track recorders, and a set of Steel Pans. In addition to this there are four practice rooms which can be booked by students and are used for the delivery of individual/small group instrumental lessons.

The department offers a range of extra curricular activities including; Jazz Band, Brass Band, Choir, keyboard Club, Steel Pan Bands, Rock/Pop Groups and has a team of visiting peripatetic music teachers offering tuition on; Woodwind, Brass, Percussion, Strings, Keyboard and Voice.
Music in KS3

The Music curriculum in Key Stage Three allows all students to develop their Musical skills in Composing, Performing, Listening and Appraising whilst developing additional skills based on the Personalised Learning and Thinking Skills (PLTS).

Much of the curriculum demands that learning takes place through the practical application of musical knowledge, skills and techniques. During Key Stage Three, students study units on Rhythm and Pulse, Keyboard technique, Singing, Chords, Programme Music and Jazz and Blues. Students study a range of Musical genres and styles enabling them to have the necessary skill base to embark upon any of the qualifications offered in Key Stage Four.
AQA And BTeC Certificate

AQA Music GCSE

Students choosing this option follow the AQA GCSE in Music. As part of this course students study Composing, Performing, Listening and the Integrated Assignment. Each of these components is worth 25% of the final Mark.

Edexcel BTEC First Certificate – Music

Students are offered the Edexcel BTEC First Certificate in Music. The course is equivalent of 2 A - C grades and is graded at Pass, Merit and Distinction level. Students study three units as part of this course, One Core Unit - Creating a Music Product and two optional units which are chosen from;

• Solo Musical Performance
• Exploring the Music Profession and Composition
• Understanding Music
• Working as a Musical Ensemble
• Producing a Musical Recording
• Exploring Musical Improvisation
• Rehearsal Techniques for Musicians
BTeC First Diploma

Edexcel BTEC First Diploma - Music

Students are offered the Edexcel BTEC First Certificate in Music. The course is equivalent of 4 A - C grades and is graded at Pass, Merit and Distinction level. Students study six units as part of this course, two Core units - Creating a Music Product and Exploring the Music Profession and four optional units which are chosen from;

• Solo Musical Performance
• Exploring Musical Composition
• Understanding Music
• Working as a Musical Ensemble
• Producing a Musical Recording
• Exploring Musical Improvisation
• Rehearsal Techniques for Musicians