Music is a core subject in Key Stages 3 and optional in Key stages 4 and 5. The department consists of one full time and one part time teacher, as well as five peripatetic teachers that give both individual and group lessons. We currently have students studying Guitar, Drums, Woodwind, Keyboard and Brass.
We operate in two music rooms, one for classroom teaching and the other for practical music lessons. We have recently invested in a network licence for the Sibelius software- which enables students to advance their compositional skills using the latest computer technology.
We believe that extra-curricular activities are integral in showcasing our young talent. We currently run the St Bedes and St Josephs school choir. The St Bedes and St Josephs Brass Band. All musicians are invited to accompany the hymns in assemblies. We also run a school show annually- this years being Hairspray. We hold a winter and summer concert in which all musicians are invited to perform and have done many trips away. These have recently included performing at the Royal Albert Hall, London and in Euro Disney, Paris.
Key Stage 3
In Years 7, 8 and 9 the year group are taught within forms.
The Department uses a range of resources, including keyboards, recorders, drums and the voice. Students receive one hour teaching time each week. Formal assessment takes place at regular intervals and they are given a level, based on performance, listening and compositional skills every half term.
Key Stage 4
Students can now opt to take GCSE music. We currently follow the AQA Music course. This comprises of 40% performance. 40% composition and a 20% listening exam. They receive 2.5 hours per week in both year 10 and 11.
