In our music curriculum we aim to develop each of the skills of performing, composing and appraising in all lessons. Opportunities are given for children to extend and apply these skills throughout their time in the academy.
Why do we teach Music at Manor Farm Academy?
At Manor Farm Academy, we are committed to ensuring that every pupil has the opportunity to cultivate a passion for music. Our music curriculum is thoughtfully structured to offer students the necessary repeated practice to attain proficiency, while systematically enhancing their understanding of the interconnected dimensions of music. This approach promotes a deeper mastery of musical skills. We strive to foster an appreciation for music across diverse genres, historical periods, and cultures, and we actively integrate music with other academic subjects.
Our curriculum is designed to cultivate a passion for music and enhance students’ skills through a variety of opportunities. We honour music from different cultures, historical periods, and genres, fostering an environment of respect for diverse musical tastes among students. Furthermore, we emphasize the use of musical instruments and prioritize experiential learning, ensuring that every child can engage meaningfully with music and explore their creative potential.
How do we teach Music at Manor Farm Academy?
The Subject Leader for Music will oversee, assess, and promote effective practices within the music program. Music lessons will emphasize practical learning experiences, enabling students to engage with a range of musical instruments. Additionally, assemblies will provide opportunities to explore music from various cultures, historical periods, and genres.
The music curriculum will be based on the Charanga Model Music Curriculum scheme. Charanga’s English Model Music Curriculum Scheme is in alignment with the National Curriculum for Music and the non-statutory Model Music Curriculum (MMC) Guidance issued by the Department for Education (DfE) in 2021. This scheme provides well-structured units and lesson plans that offer week-by-week support for each year group. It includes comprehensive lesson plans, assessment documentation, a clear progression of learning, and a collection of engaging songs and resources to enhance each lesson. Key learning objectives and outcomes, accompanied by “I Can” statements are provided to facilitate assessment.
Our curriculum adopts a spiral approach to musical education, allowing students to revisit, build upon, and expand their knowledge and skills in a gradual manner. This approach aids in consolidating their learning and enhancing their musical confidence, empowering them to advance further. Furthermore, teachers are equipped to tailor their instruction to meet the individual strengths and needs of their students.
Each unit of learning in Music will include several key components designed to enrich the educational experience. Students will engage in a listen-and-respond section, appraise various pieces of music, and have opportunities for improvisation with instruments. Additionally, the curriculum will incorporate playing instruments, singing, and performing, ensuring a comprehensive approach to music education that fosters creativity and skill development.
The Music subject leader will actively seek relevant training and engage in ongoing professional development to enhance their subject knowledge, skills, and understanding. This commitment will empower them to contribute to curriculum development and provide support to colleagues across the school.
The impact of teaching Music at Manor Farm Academy
At Manor Farm Academy, our students participate in a comprehensive musical education that enhances their ability to respond to a variety of musical compositions and recognize musical instruments by their sounds. Teaching focuses include singing and playing the glockenspiel, along with various percussion instruments, which helps them develop both individual and collaborative skills. In addition, students explore improvisation with these instruments, gaining insight into how music can evoke a range of emotions. They also engage in composing their own music, cultivating the necessary skills for performance while fostering a profound appreciation for music and enhancing their creative expression.
Additionally, we measure the impact of our curriculum through various methods, including teacher assessments conducted during each lesson, which are meticulously recorded in the music log. This ongoing assessment allows us to track student progress, identify areas for improvement, and ensure that each pupil is developing their musical skills effectively.
Music learning in action at Manor Farm Academy
Music lessons are designed to be both engaging and enjoyable. We utilise practical resources in an interactive manner, allowing students to record their ideas and develop original compositions. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to perform collaboratively in group settings.
Additional Music experiences at Manor Farm Academy
Lincolnshire Music Services support the pupils at Manor Farm Academy by providing a variety of instrumental tuition, both on a one-to-one basis and through group learning sessions. In addition, Lincolnshire Music Services offers further musical opportunities outside of school hours, including participation in a community choir. As an academy, we firmly support and promote extra-curricular music lessons and opportunities, ensuring that our pupils have access to and are celebrated for these experiences. Our recent partnership with Rock Steady Music has been particularly well-received, aligning with our values of individuality and curiosity. This initiative allows students to express themselves musically while also fostering collaboration as they learn to perform together as a band and showcase their talents to an audience.
