St Thomas a Becket Catholic Primary School

Music

‘He Who Sings Prays Twice’ – St Augustine

Intent

Music plays an integral part throughout the community of St Thomas a Becket Catholic Primary School. Through this particular aspect of the arts, we allow our children to express creativity in their appraising, performance and composition of music. We give our children the opportunity to participate in music as a Catholic community, where singing plays an important role in masses, liturgies and performances. Our children are encouraged to immerse in music from a variety of cultures, express their individuality and enthusiasm, developing their self-confidence both for the subject and within their own personal development.

Implementation

When music lessons are taught at St Thomas a Becket, teachers use Charanga Music School across all year groups. Through this, our children are introduced to a diverse variety of music, given opportunities to discuss this and encouraged to form their own opinions. Teachers then use this music as a basis for vocal instrumental and instrumental performance, and encouraging all pupils to create their own compositions, both individually and as part of a group. Teachers introduce the children to music notation, becoming more standardised as they progress through the school. We welcome specialist music teachers from East Sussex Music Service; children in the Early Years Foundation Stage are taught new topics through song and instruments enhanced by the ‘Ready to Learn’ program and our Year 4 children benefit from ukulele lessons. The subject leader for music leads our weekly hymn practice, where the children join to pray through song. The children are taught explicit singing skills and discuss the significance of the hymns they are singing. Each year group has the opportunity to perform a production to parents during the school year, where singing plays a key part. Children learn the importance of music in theatre and how it can be used to help tell a story.

Impact

We hope that in our music teaching, we improve our children’s well-being, confidence and spirituality, as well as developing our children’s skills as young musicians, increasing their musical ability. Children are encouraged to enjoy music, and where possible, to participate in wider instrumental activities. Our teachers carry out assessments to identify gifted pupils and those who need additional support. Teachers can speak to subject leaders, or use progression resources for these children provided by Charanga Music School.

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/national-curriculum-in-england-primary-curriculum