Music at Polegate School

The music curriculum is well-defined for each year group, with clear objectives and specific skills and knowledge to be acquired. Progression is clearly outlined, with numerous opportunities for retrieval of prior learning. The Irresistible Curriculum for Music ensures that each year's curriculum logically builds on what has been taught previously. Our music program is accessible and inclusive for all students, utilisaing various technological tools to support all learners and enabling them to express themselves and respond to music.

The curriculum is consistently reviewed and developed by the subject lead and senior leadership team. Assessment is integrated throughout lessons to support and enhance children's musical learning. For example, audio and visual recordings are shared on the home-school communication platform, Seesaw, allowing children to engage in peer and self-evaluation of their music, as well as providing opportunities for them to celebrate their successes.

Students have ample planned opportunities to play and learn instruments, sing regularly, and develop their musical techniques. Teachers have access to lesson planning support that focuses on key musical skills. All children are provided with regular chances to compose, improve, and create music, with the integration of music notation presented in a manner that is age-appropriate and aligned with their developmental stage. Confident teachers across year groups support one another in delivering high-quality music lessons by sharing their subject and pedagogical knowledge.

Students are exposed to a diverse range of genres, styles, and musical traditions from around the world and various cultures. This diversity is celebrated not only in class music lessons but also in singing assemblies and weekly class assembly performances. 

Careers-related learning is explored through music, featuring professional guests who demonstrate real-world connections to music-related careers. Children have the opportunity to see instrumental teachers perform and discuss their professions, such as violinists, rock band leaders, and piano or saxophone teachers.

Children are highly engaged and motivated during music lessons. Our music learning fosters the development of personal and social skills, allowing students to express themselves in ways that are personal and meaningful to them.