Our Music Curriculum

In EYFS the children are introduced to a number of instruments including recorders and percussion and, through exploration, they devise and rehearse their own compositions. They are introduced to many musical terms and there is a focus on rhythm and being able to perform as part of a group. This follows the Charanga scheme.

As the children move into KS1 we use the Kapow Music Curriculum to continue the children's development in music.

In KS2 the focus becomes more on tuned instruments, and we largely remain following the Kapow Curriculum. In Year 4 however, pupils start to learn the Ukelele in a whole class scenario taught by staff from the Suffolk Music Hub, and this creates an opportunity for them to play ensemble pieces and also presents the option for them to continue with this instrument as they progress through the school. For students interested in other instruments, the Suffolk Music Hub provides tutors for a variety of other instruments via small group and individual peripatetic sessions (currently Flute, Piano, Guitar, Trumpet, Violin and Ukelele). Whole class sessions within the Kapow scheme look at how notes are written on a tab or stave, and they investigate timbre, tempo and different rhythms. As they progress through KS2 they are introduced to many different styles of music and instruments, from classical and historical pieces to jazz more modern musicians and composers.

Below is the schools Music Padlet demonstrating some of the music sessions the children have taken part in.

As a school we have a weekly singing assembly where we join together to sing both traditional and modern songs. All our assemblies use a wide range of music to engage the children. We make sure that, through this, the children are introduced to different genres of music, and music from different periods of history and places around the world.

Extra-curricular activities

We are very proud that we have a well-regarded KS2 choir (The Benjamin Britten choir) which was established in 2013 when we were learning songs to celebrate Benjamin Britten’s centenary. It has become a very successful choir and each year it has opportunities to perform to different audiences. Performances have included singing to the residents at Cornwallis Court, performing at the Christmas Lights Switch On event in Bury St Edmunds, and collaborating with local schools, the Cathedral, and St Mary’s Church.

Children who have personal instrument tuition through the school take part in Musical Showcase performances that are designed to provide them with the opportunity to perform to a large audience of parents.

School Music Development Plan

Below is our Music Development Plan for this year.