Music
All pupils receive one lesson of one hour of music per week as part of the curriculum. The music curriculum covers a wide range of topics and musical styles, allowing pupils to build up skills in Listening, Appraising, Composing and Performing. The use of keyboards and music software in lessons reflects the increasing importance of technology in music today.
We encourage our pupils to develop their musical talents and interests. Many pupils have lessons within the school from peripatetic instrumental specialists and there is a waiting list for tuition on most instruments. If pupils have been receiving tuition at their previous schools, we endeavour to ensure that this is continued at South Charnwood.
Extra-curricular music is a big part of the school week: we offer a wide variety of lunchtime vocal and instrumental groups, which all pupils are invited to join.
Marking and Assessment
Assessment in Music takes a variety of forms, as pupils are expected to take part in a multiplicity of activities with increasing opportunities to develop the complexity and range of their musical language and understanding. Their progression is tracked in the four main areas performing, composing, listening and appraising and their attainment is judged against the given National Curriculum level descriptions.
Practical assessment is carried out during normal class lessons and may be informal or formal. Pupils are assessed on an informal and subjective basis throughout every lesson, particularly during practical tasks. For more formal assessment the criteria to be assessed are shared with the pupils and immediate feedback is given. Discussion and peer assessment are regularly included.
Written work is assessed by a variety of methods, depending on the nature of the task. Aural, oral, group and discussion work is also monitored on an informal basis.
GCSE Music Detailed Subject Information
Co-Curricular Music
This addresses the opportunity pupils at South Charnwood High School have to sing and play music outside of lesson time. Within SCHS students have access to a number of opportunities to make, create, perform and play music, this is through a variety of ensemble or instrumental groups, as well as co-curricular clubs that allow students to make progress in music beyond the core curriculum.
Instrumental & Vocal Groups & Clubs
SCHS offers a range of instrumental and vocal groups as well as clubs that are offered free of charge which are open to all students across all year groups. Rehearsals and clubs take place in specialist music areas such as the music department, the peripatetic instrumental rooms, or the main hall where appropriate.
Annual School Show
We produce an annual school production for evening performance with a large audience. The musical offers numerous opportunities for solo performances, allowing students to showcase their individual talents within the ensemble. This inclusive group fosters a collaborative environment where students can develop their vocal skills and experience the joy of collective music-making, acting and choreography.
Summer Spectacular
The final term gives KS3 students the opportunity to be part of an ‘in-house’ production showcasing their talents in both solo and ensemble performance as well as working collaboratively with their peers on a scripted performance. This group provides a platform for students to develop their musical skills in a collaborative setting, blending different musical styles and techniques alongside developing their drama performance skills.
Instrument Club / Band Club / Gig Group
Instrument Club and Band Club are open to students from all year groups, providing an opportunity to learn how to play an instrument. Both opportunities allow for students who wish to use the instruments in a low-risk environment, but give the opportunity for students to receive support from a teacher as well as guidance from music student lead learners, ensuring a comprehensive learning experience that promotes skill development and musical proficiency.
