Music is essentially a practical subject which should be enjoyed by all.  From an early age, children have an awareness of rhythm, pitch and sounds around them and these should be developed on entry to school.

Aims

• To encourage awareness, enjoyment and appreciation of Music in all its forms
• To develop imagination and creativity
• To help children of all abilities develop positive attitudes and experience success and satisfaction in Music
• To offer opportunities to perform, compose, listen and appraise
• Broaden understanding of a wide variety of styles
• Develop awareness of different cultures and traditions through their music

Teaching Method

The teaching method employed will vary according to the age, ability and experience of the children and according to the skill being taught.

Entitlement and Provision

All children in the Foundation Stage will be provided opportunities to support their exploration, curiosity and play through music as part of ‘Creative Development’ for Development Matters in the Early Years Foundation Stage.

Some classes in Key Stages One and Two teach Music as a discrete subject using the Manchester Music Scheme, but the introduction of the IPC curriculum in school has led to music being taught more as part of cross curricular topics.

At St. Mary’s, singing is an important part of school life and all children are given the opportunity to sing each week in singing assemblies where the children are taught a variety of songs – mainly sacred, but some secular. 

There is an Infant and a Junior Choir run as lunchtime and after-school clubs.  These Choirs provide the children with the opportunity to take part in a range of activities, including end of year productions. 

The school buys in specialist instrumental teachers for recorders and ukulele.  All pupils in Year Four have the opportunity to learn the ukulele and these lessons also take place in school time.