Music
Intent
In Music we aim to develop courageous, respectful and resilient musicians through the interwoven aspects of performing, composing and appraising. Through a range of genres and styles, pupils gradually expand their knowledge of notation and music theory whilst practicing and developing their ability as a musician. Pupils work individually, in pairs and in larger groups, and will develop the necessary behaviours to increase their success; empathy, equality and autonomy will play a role in this success. By the end of Key Stage 3 all pupils will be equipped to progress with Music as a subject at GCSE, if they so wish.
Implementation
Pupils in Year 7, 8 and 9 are allocated one hour of music per week; we believe Music is an important part of our pupils’ education. We aim to offer opportunities to participate in musical disciplines that pupils can easily access and all pupils have the opportunity to take part in the extra-curricular programme. In each unit, we assess the pupils in the first instance to benchmark their ability and then summatively assess the pupils at the end of each unit of work to monitor their attainment and progress against their target grades.
Pupils who opt for GCSE Music have six lessons per fortnight; as a department we follow the Eduqas Music Specification (2016). Lesson time is divided between the three major components of the course: Component 1 – Performing (30% of qualification); Component 2 – Composing (30% of qualification); and Component 3 – Appraising (40% of qualification). At the end of each unit, in both practical and theory elements, we summatively assess the pupils to monitor their attainment and progress against their target grades. These summative assessments assist us in generating the pupils’ final grades towards Component 1 and 2. Component 3 (Appraising) is assessed externally by one exam in the Summer of Year 11.
Wigmore High School’s music development plan for 2024-2025 outlines strategies to provide high-quality, inclusive music education aligned with the national plan for music education. It focuses on curriculum music, extracurricular activities, and performance opportunities to enrich students' learning experiences.
Curriculum Music: At Key Stage 3, all students receive one hour of music lessons weekly, covering singing, composing, performing, and appraising. Lessons align with the Model Music Curriculum and prepare students for progression to GCSE. Key Stage 4 students receive three hours weekly for GCSE Music, focusing on performing, composing, and appraising, with assessments supporting progress.
Extracurricular Opportunities: The school provides practice rooms and offers peripatetic lessons through Encore Music Service, with financial aid for eligible students. Weekly choir and brass ensemble sessions are open to all, and students can participate in graded exams and external performances.
Musical Experiences: Students perform in assemblies, concerts, and school productions. Annual events and trips enrich their cultural capital, with financial support for disadvantaged students.
Future Goals: The school aims to enhance music technology, expand instrumental lessons, introduce a rock group and orchestra, and boost GCSE enrollment. Collaboration with other schools and departments will further enrich opportunities.