The Curriculum

At key stage 3 we help students to develop the 3 major musical disciplines of performing, composing and listening/ appraising whilst studying a diverse selection of topics such as baroque music, jazz and African drumming..

In years 10 and 11 we currently follow the Edexcel syllabus for GCSE music.  During this course, pupils perform several times in both a solo and an ensemble capacity, and compose a number of pieces of music based on the four areas of study.

In the sixth form, students have the opportunity to study Edexcel music and/ or music technology at AS and A2 levels. On the AS music course, pupils study focus works based around the topics of instrumental music and vocal music.  They perform a short recital and compose one piece of music based on one of the two focus areas. These skills are then taken on to the A2 course and developed further.

A-level Music Technology students learn both how to work with sequencing software and also how to record live music in a studio setting where they get the opportunity to work with our studio technician.

Music Lessons

Our department offers individual lessons in all major string, woodwind and brass instruments as well as in music theory, drums, voice, music technology and guitar.  We have several ensembles which rehearse at lunchtimes and after school including brass ensemble, junior jazz band, senior jazz band, junior band, senior orchestra, vocal ensemble, junior choir, senior choir, string ensemble, guitar ensemble, senior chamber ensemble and flute choir.

Extra-curricular

The department also organises many extra-curricular events, such as regular instrumental concerts, recital evenings for our GCSE and A-level students, a summer jazz evening and music tours to Europe (in the last few years, students have performed in Holland, Luxembourg, Germany, France and Italy).  We also work with the drama department on a musical production which takes place in February.  Our ensembles are also regularly involved in events within our local community, as well as providing music for school services and assemblies.

Staffing

Ms Yeomans
- (HoD);
Mr Keith;
Ms Jeffries