Our music curriculum is based on the requirements of the National Curriculum. It is a skills based curriculum developing musical skills from Early Years to Year 2. It aims to equip the children with the knowledge, understanding and skills to be lifelong learners and to enjoy, participate and achieve in music.
The musical dimensions of pitch, duration, dynamics, tempo, timbre, texture and structure form the core of what the children are learning. Children will develop the musical skills of singing, playing, listening and appraising and will learn the musical vocabulary needed to describe and discuss the music they perform and hear with increasing discernment.
Learning to sing and play a musical instrument provides opportunities for students to develop a greater understanding of themselves and how they learn as individuals and with others. The challenges encountered when learning to sing and play help to build confidence, resilience and self-esteem alongside growing empathy and the ability to work cooperatively.
Music lessons offer opportunities for learners to develop their skills and confidence as individuals, to work as valued team members making good choices, to set simple but challenging goals, to recognise what they like and dislike, to offer constructive support and feedback to others, to develop listening and communication skills and to celebrate their strengths and achievements.
Music lessons at Oakley Infant School are delivered weekly by class teachers in Reception and by HMS music teachers in KS1 who follow the Listen 2 Me programme. There is a clear sequence of learning across the school which builds progression with a focus on exploring musical skills, developing understanding and opportunities to apply the learning through a range of practical musical activities. Children are given opportunities to be creative, explore their learning and deepen and apply their understanding. Teaching units usually culminate in a performance where the children have the opportunity to apply their skills, work together as a team and reflect on their learning. Children also listen to and enjoy music from a wide range of cultures, traditions, contexts and purposes not only during the course of music lessons but also in assemblies and where appropriate, in class.
Our music curriculum is designed to challenge and to demonstrate progression. We measure the impact of our curriculum through the following methods:
Music Overview