Music

Music forms an integral part of the curriculum from the Nursery through to Year 2. Music gives all children the opportunity to enjoy, create and explore. This in turn enhances the physical and emotional development of each child as well as relating to their class work. We aim to make music practical, fun, engaging and challenging - a subject where all children can find an aspect which they enjoy or excel in.

Music in the Pre-Prep is taught by a music specialist and all classes have one session per week, more when a concert or performance is being prepared. The children learn to sing, play untuned and tuned percussion along with life skills such as working with a group, appraising each other’s work and having the confidence to perform to an audience. There is a whole school Hymn practice once a week for children in Reception to Year 2 and recorders may be taken as an optional lunch time activity for Year 2 children. Choir is optional for Year 1 and 2 children.

Excellence in Musicis celebrated by ensuring children with outstanding musical talents have the chance to use these and share their skills with others in the school. Each term there are school productions ranging from year group assemblies, school concerts to prize giving at the end of each term. Occasional events include joining with the Prep department for special assemblies where individual children may perform.

There is no formal recording or assessment in Music. Every child is encouraged to take part in lessons and performances in some capacity, to do their best and to experience pleasure through musical activities. End of term awards are given for effort as well as achievement. Specific achievements such as a solo performance are recorded on each child’s Record of Achievement card which they receive on leaving the Pre-Prep. Reportingto parents is on a twice yearly basis for Year 1 and Year 2 children.

We have many visiting music, dance and drama specialists who bring relevance and enjoyment to what the children themselves are learning. This in turn inspires and encourages our children to use their talents in the best way possible. Above all children are encouraged to enjoy music, to develop their own skills and learn how to appreciate their own and other’s strengths.