Music
Intent
At Bishop Aldhelm’s CE Primary School, our intent for music education is to deliver an inspiring and creative curriculum that nurtures every child’s confidence and self-expression. Through active listening, appreciating diverse musical traditions, and engaging in composition and performance, we aim to increase pupils’ cultural capital and deepen their understanding of the world. Music is taught as a joyful, inclusive subject that encourages collaboration, resilience, and emotional development. We believe that every child deserves the opportunity to explore their musical potential, celebrate their individuality, and develop a lifelong love of music through meaningful and enriching experiences.
Implementation
Music is taught through an inspiring and structured approach that builds children’s knowledge, skills, and confidence. Lessons include clear modelling, focused vocabulary, and practical skill development using a range of instruments and vocal techniques. Children explore significant musicians, experiment creatively, and compose with increasing independence. Teaching is inclusive and adaptive, using group, paired, and independent tasks, with opportunities for discussion, peer feedback, and performance. In EYFS and Key Stage 1, the focus is on developing listening and simple rhythm skills, which provide the essential building blocks for our wider curriculum as the children move up the school. In Key Stage 2, all children will have the opportunity to learn digital music creation and editing as part of the curriculum. They will also be able to learn to play an instrument such as the ukulele or recorder or take part in a whole class ensemble such as a samba band.
In Music, our curriculum develops children’s knowledge through the following concepts.
- Singing
- Listening
- Musicianship
- Performing
- Composing
Impact
By the end of Year 6, all children at Bishop Aldhelm’s will have developed the confidence to actively participate in singing, composing, and trying new musical skills. They will be able to listen attentively to a range of music, identifying key elements such as tempo, instrumentation, and mood. Pupils will confidently combine their ideas to create original compositions or write their own songs, demonstrating creativity and musical understanding. They will appreciate a wide variety of musical genres and styles and will have experienced performing to an audience through singing and/or playing an instrument, fostering pride and self-belief.
Music at Bishop Aldhelm’s CE Primary School empowers pupils to become creative thinkers and expressive performers, nurturing their confidence and imagination while preparing them for future learning and cultural experiences.