All pupils are taught Music in Years 7 to 8. In the Summer Term of Year 8 a teacher assessment of pupils’ Key Stage 3 skills, knowledge and understanding takes place. From Year 9, pupils may opt to take Music at GCSE level.
Music in years 7 to 8
We feel that each child studying music should find the activities, and subject matter, stimulating, challenging, relevant and absorbing. Pupils are encouraged to develop an understanding, appreciation and practical experience of music making activity. Pupils will be actively involved in the four aspects of the English National Curriculum for music: performing and composing, listening, and appraising. Music teaching takes place in a well-equipped specialist room and pupils are encouraged to take an active part in music making, both in and out of lessons, and to learn to play an instrument themselves. Preparation for Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music Grade examinations are also offered by the school’s peripatetic staff and these Grade examinations receive university accreditation points on future UCAS University Application forms.
GCSE Music from Year 9
Through studying music, your child will develop a wide range of skills, such as research and information handling, presentation techniques and aural aptitude, as well as opportunities for original creativity and self-expression. These skills are essential for those taking GCSEs in Music. At this stage pupils will be preparing for the three stage examination which involves two elements of practical work and one written paper, all geared toward determining the pupil’s performing, composing and appraisal skills.
GCSE Assessment
Work will be assessed via coursework (60%) and examination (40%). Coursework continues throughout Years 10 and 11, the GCSE examination takes place either in Year 10 or Year 11, depending upon the individual learning needs and preferences of each pupil.
Enrichment activities
The Music Department’s philosophy supports the view that all students are entitled to make music, regardless of ability or gender: this view is upheld by the wide range of extra-curricular groups active in the school. Concerts are arranged on a regular basis to give students the opportunity of witnessing and participating in public performance. These include annual festivities and special school events. Study visits are arranged to the Proms in London, and nearer to home, pupils have the opportunity to visit and perform in places of local interest such as St. George’s Chapel in Windsor and Eton College Chapel.
Beyond GCSE
The school offers AS and A2 level Music to sixth form students. In addition, Music is available as a Higher level subject in the International Baccalaureate Diploma.
Beyond school
Qualifications in Music are essential to those considering studying music in higher education at University or Music College as well as being important for those who wish to seek employment in this exciting and varied field. Music qualifications also support careers in teaching in the Primary and Secondary sector and Drama. Preparing for performance also helps pupils gain confidence for careers in Law and Medicine.
