Why do we teach Music at Freeland Primary School?

At Freeland Primary School we aim to make music an enjoyable learning experience. We encourage children to participate in a variety of musical experiences with the intention to build confidence and inspire creativity. Our teaching focuses on developing the children’s appreciation for rhythm and melody and gaining a deeper understanding of the history and context of music through singing, playing, composing, listening, improvising and performing. Through teaching music at Freeland Primary School, our priority is to teach and perfect the skills implemented by the National Curriculum for Music allowing for the development and progression in learning.

How do we teach Music at Freeland Primary School?

Our music scheme of work is Charanga which brings together great music, modern pedagogy and the latest educational technology. Charanga complements the curriculum and scaffolds the learning opportunities throughout the Key Stages. Every year, a group of children attend 'Festival of Voices' and all year groups are given opportunities to play a variety of instruments e.g. whole class recorder and ocarina. Instrumental tuition is available for piano, guitar, strings and woodwind. ‘iRock’ provide our pupils with an electronic alternative to these instruments in the form of electric guitar, drums and keyboard. However, these are optional activities and are paid for on a termly basis by parents of participating children.  We encourage children to perform in assemblies, services and concerts. 

To encourage a love of music and singing, the school has a choir open from Year 1 to 6. These pupils have the opportunity to attend a variety of Oxfordshire Music Service events throughout the year and perform at our own school and community events.

What is the impact of our teaching?

Children are assessed within every lesson which helps the teacher plan the next steps in the teaching.  At the end of each term assessments are used using Target Tracker and the National Curriculum guidelines.  Subject leaders gather and analyse this data so that they can support and challenge teachers to ensure that children are receiving the best provision.