Intent for KS1 to KS3

Music is essentially a practical subject which should be enjoyed by all. From an early age children have an awareness of rhythm, pitch and sounds around them and these are developed on entry to Iceni Academy in EYFS. Our music curriculum inspires pupils to develop a love of music, increasing their self-confidence, creativity and sense of achievement.

Our music specialist at Iceni Hockwold Primary Academy incorporates teaching of music with class topics where possible to fully immerse all pupils into the musical experience, encouraging them to perform, compose, listen and appraise. In addition, and with the inception of the Model Music curriculum, long term plans have been audited to include extra features from the non-statutory curriculum such as adding in whole class Ocarina sessions.

Music at Key Stage 3 continues the journey towards building a universal foundation of musical understanding. It is expected that pupils will arrive at Key Stage 3 having had experience of performing, composing and listening and will be able to read a simple melody as demonstrated through the Years 6–7 Transition Project.

By the end of Key Stage 3 (Year 9), pupils will have:

  • gained an aural knowledge of some of the great musical output of human civilisation
  • engaged with creative processes through improvisation and composition
  • built an understanding of how musical elements work and discussed how these interact with subjective and objective models of musical meaning
  • developed knowledge of a wider range of notes and improved their fluency in music notation.

Progression in Key Stage 3 builds on the learning from Key Stages 1 & 2 in order to ensure a smooth and steady progression in musical learning.

The power of music can’t be underestimated. It’s what makes us human beings, it’s what makes us nations; it’s what makes us a great civilization. We cannot forget that ever.

Marin Alsop – first female conductor of The Last Night of the Proms 7th September 2013

For example, Oak Class are looking at writing their own film music inspired by excerpts from the film Gladiator, supporting their Roman topic. In Beech Class they are learning about Instruments of the Orchestra. In Willow Class the children’s Fantasy topic inspires the children to use pitched instruments and voices to show how Jack climbs the beanstalk. In Acorn the focus is on rhythmic and pitching skills with our voices, bodies and instruments – it’s all about awe and wonder in EYFS.