Intent

The National Curriculum for music aims to ensure that all pupils:
• Perform, listen to, review and evaluate music
• Be taught to sing, create and compose music
• Understand and explore how music is created, produced and communicated through the inter-related dimensions.

At Callington Primary School, we have constructed a music curriculum to enforce our school's vision, values and ethos; the best for every child, all the time. We provide a firm understanding of what music is through musicianship, performing, singing, improvisation, composition, listening and notation across a wide variety of historical periods, styles, traditions, and musical genres. Our objective at Callington Primary School is to create a musical atmosphere where children will get opportunities to learn a musical instrument and aspire to continue playing in the future. Every child will have had the chance to play an instrument by the time they leave Callington Primary School. We have designed a curriculum where children will cover the different elements of music, learn important vocabulary, develop a good understanding on how music has changed throughout history and become global citizens by understanding how music is different across the world. Teachers will inspire future musicians as well as let children experience musicians through lessons, assemblies and live performances.

Implementation

The music leader is able to provide effective support for those teaching outside their main areas of expertise. Staff meetings have been provided to continue the professional development of teachers and by working closely with the Cornwall Music Hub (ASONE),  teachers have been inspired by the 'first access' instrument scheme. Within lessons, students have the opportunities to understand the principles of creating notes, as well as how to read basic music notation. They also learn how to compose focussing on different dimensions of music, which in turn feeds their understanding when listening, playing, or analysing music. Composing or performing using body percussion and vocal sounds is also part of the curriculum, which develops the understanding of musical elements without the added complexity of an instrument. Throughout the key stages, children will learn different instruments within their classrooms. From ukuleles to glockenspiels to violins, all using the 'first access' scheme provided by ASONE. Throughout their school life, children have opportunities to perform in many productions, from the nativity in foundation stage to the end of year production by year 6.

Impact

Whilst in school, children have access to a varied curriculum, which allows students to discover areas of strengths and become confident and empowered learners. The productions that the children do, showcase their musical skills through singing and playing instruments to also developing their drama. Overall, their eyes are opened to a wealth of music.  Music develops their global citizenship to understand culture and history, both in relation to students individually, as well as ethnicities from across the world. Children are able to enjoy music, in as many ways as they choose- either as listener, creator or performer. They can sing and feel a pulse. Finally, pupil interviews will take place to ensure that their voice is heard in regards to the school’s music curriculum and subject coverage.