At St James’ Church of England Primary Academy, we believe that Music plays an important role in bringing people together, inspiring creativity and developing confidence. Our engaging and inclusive Music curriculum encourages children to explore their musical talents, express themselves creatively and develop a lifelong appreciation of music.

Through singing, listening, playing instruments, composing and performing, children develop their musical knowledge and skills while building confidence, resilience and teamwork. We aim to ensure every child has the opportunity to experience the joy of making music, celebrate their achievements and discover the important role music plays in our lives and communities.

How We Teach Music

Our Music curriculum provides children with opportunities to explore a wide range of musical styles, traditions and genres while progressively developing their understanding of rhythm, pitch, tempo, dynamics and musical notation.

Children learn to sing, play a variety of tuned and untuned instruments, create their own compositions and perform both independently and alongside others. Musical skills are carefully developed throughout Key Stages 1 and 2, allowing pupils to build on their previous learning and become increasingly confident musicians.

We provide opportunities for children to learn instruments with specialist music teaching, including classroom lessons and additional musical activities. As they progress, children develop their ability to read musical notation, compose their own music and perform as part of an ensemble.

Singing and Performing

Singing is an important part of life at St James', bringing our school community together through shared musical experiences.

Children regularly participate in singing during Collective Worship, choir activities and church services, developing their confidence, musical expression and ability to perform alongside others.

We encourage children to celebrate their musical achievements through performances and shared experiences, recognising that music provides opportunities to develop creativity, collaboration and a sense of belonging.

Our aim is for every child to leave St James' with an appreciation of music, the confidence to express themselves musically and the enthusiasm to continue exploring music throughout their lives.

Our Music Curriculum

Find out more about our Music curriculum by exploring the documents below:

• Music Curriculum Statement: Our approach to teaching Music, the opportunities available to pupils and our aspirations for their musical development.

• Music Skills Progression: A detailed overview of how children's musical knowledge and skills develop across Key Stages 1 and 2, including listening and appraising, singing, improvisation, composition and performance.