Key Stage 3

Yr 7/Yr 8
In year 7 and 8 students are taught the basic skills needed to understand music theory and techniques.  For those who already have musical experience there are advanced tasks as part of the sections that are covered by the entire class to ensure that all levels of ability are covered.  Some of this syllabus is covered in the Music matters 11-14 book (shown right) by Heinemann which is provided by the department in lessons.  This includes topics such as chords, songs, rondos, timings, different music cultures such as the timbre of Japanese music and baroque.  The curriculum for these years aims to ensure that students have a firm basis of musical understanding and satisfactory keyboard skills.  Students of yrs 7 and 8 do not need any prior experience in keyboard skills as this is covered at the beginning of the curriculum.

Yr 9

In year 9 students get a choice as to which type of performing arts they wish to continue with for the next year.  This choice is out of music, dance and drama.  Students can also select a second language rather than performing arts.  For those who choose music the curriculum enables students to advance their musical ability including the introduction of composition work and further theory into composition, modern and classical pieces.  Students work in a similar style to that of previous years, most often in groups but are given more freedom in the music they have to produce and perform.  Unlike years 7 and 8, no specific text book is used but students are provided with the necessary materials and teaching to understand what is required and to help them in their work.  The work done is focused on both continuing to improve students’ skills whilst also preparing them for the music work they may do in future years at GCSE and A Level.