Music
INTENT
At Paulton Junior School, all our students deserve a broad and ambitious music curriculum, rich in skills and knowledge, which ignites curiosity and prepares them well for future learning and moreover engenders a lifelong love of music.
Music teaching involves a constant revisiting of skills and knowledge. As such, our progression document sets out how these skills are added to and embellished over the 4 years of KS2. To aid teacher assessment and support learning, each term will have a different focus area enabling the teacher to target a specific area of learning which, in turn, gives each child access to a musical education that is both broad and balanced.
Implementation
- Comprehensive and Inclusive Curriculum: We have designed a well-structured and inspiring Music curriculum that is inclusive and accessible to all students. It incorporates a wide range of musical genres, styles, and traditions, including both Western and non-Western music. Our curriculum is progressive, building on and extending students' previous learning as they move through the school. It provides opportunities for composing, performing, and appraising music, ensuring a holistic approach to music education.
- Skilled and Passionate Staff and access to Musical Instruments and Technology: At Paulton Junior School we use Charanga to support our music teaching, this is an online music scheme provided by BANES Music Service with lots of visual aids and interactive resources to support children's learning about music. Our children use glockenspiels, percussion trolleys, recorders and Irish whistles to take part practically in classroom music lessons.
- Performance Opportunities and links to the professional community: In Year 3, children benefit from a weekly Djembe drumming lesson facilitated by PJS teachers trained by professionals at the BANES music service (2020-21). Year 5, now receive Ukulele tuition through the First Access scheme, which adds an extra dynamic to our provision at PJS and demonstrate a clear progression in instrumental skill from djembe in Year 3 through to ukulele in Year 5. In addition, we invite our children to take up an instrument of their own (orchestral instruments, guitar, keyboard and voice). Tuition is provided by peripatetic teachers from the BANES music service. We also facilitate rock band tuition from Rocksteady music; promoting teamwork, collaboration and a love of music for groups of up to 10 children playing electric guitar, bass, drums, keyboard and vocals which culminate in termly concerts. We have a long-standing tradition of taking part in Young Voices and regularly deliver a choir between 70-90 children from across KS2. The children, who attend, benefit from weekly choir practice in an after-school club as well as listening to high quality music performances and being part of a 6000+ strong choir at the event itself. Our children are also encouraged to experience music as part of their play and we have provided them with a trolley containing both tuned and untuned percussion for use at playtimes. All children also take part in a singing assembly once a week where they learn songs related to the season, from popular culture or important festivals. At Christmas, all year groups take part in a series of Christmas concerts designed to encourage children to perform to an audience and bring music to the community. Finally, our Year 6 children put on a musical production in the summer term as a celebration of their time spent at our school which culminates in their performance of a song written specifically for their cohort.
Impact
1. High Levels of Musical Proficiency: Our students demonstrate a high level of musical proficiency, as evidenced through their compositions, performances, and ability to appraise and evaluate music critically. They have a secure understanding of fundamental musical concepts, including rhythm, pitch, harmony, and dynamics. Students develop excellent technical skills on their chosen instruments and show the ability to improvise and express their ideas creatively.
2. Confident Performers: Through regular performance opportunities, students develop confidence in their musical abilities and are unafraid to showcase their talents to others. They exhibit excellent stage presence, expressiveness, and a strong connection with their audience.
3. Love for Music and Lifelong Learning: Our students develop a genuine love for music and continue to engage in musical activities beyond their time in the Junior School. They appreciate and seek out a wide range of musical genres, attend concerts, and participate in community music-making groups. They are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary for lifelong enjoyment and appreciation of music.
4. Positive Impact on Well-being and Teamwork: Participation in music positively impacts students' well-being, promoting resilience, self-expression, emotional regulation, and a sense of achievement. Collaboration within ensembles and musical groups fosters teamwork, communication, and mutual respect. Music becomes a vehicle for students to connect with others and establish meaningful relationships.
5. Cultural Understanding: Through exposure to diverse musical traditions, students develop an appreciation for different cultures and traditions, promoting inclusivity and empathy. They understand the role of music in shaping societies and value the richness and diversity it brings to their own lives and communities.
By focusing on these intentions, implementing effective strategies, and continually monitoring and evaluating our Music curriculum, we strive to provide an outstanding music education that equips all students with a lifelong love and appreciation for music.