Purpose and Aims of the Subject
At Adderley Primary School, our music curriculum aims to inspire pupils to develop a love of music and their talent as musicians, increasing their self-confidence, creativity and sense of achievement. Music provides opportunities for children to express themselves, work collaboratively and appreciate a wide range of musical styles and cultures.
The aims of Music are to:
- Develop pupils’ confidence in singing, performing and composing
- Build an understanding of musical elements such as rhythm, pitch, tempo and dynamics
- Encourage pupils to listen to and appreciate a variety of musical genres and traditions
- Provide opportunities for creative expression through composition and performance
- Develop teamwork and communication through group music-making
At Adderley Primary School, Music is taught using the Kapow Primary scheme, which provides a carefully sequenced curriculum that builds musical knowledge and skills progressively from Year 1 to Year 6.
How the Subject is Taught in Practice
Music lessons at Adderley Primary School are delivered through engaging units from the Kapow Primary curriculum. Each unit focuses on developing specific musical skills and knowledge through practical activities.
Pupils learn through:
- Singing a variety of songs and developing vocal skills
- Listening and appraising different pieces of music from a range of cultures and time periods
- Playing instruments, including tuned and untuned percussion
- Composing and improvising their own pieces of music
- Performing individually and as part of a group
Throughout the curriculum, pupils explore key musical concepts such as:
- Rhythm and pulse
- Pitch and melody
- Tempo and dynamics
- Structure and musical notation
Children are encouraged to discuss what they hear in music, share their ideas and reflect on their performances, helping to build confidence and communication skills.
Outcomes of the Curriculum and Assessment
Through the Music curriculum, pupils develop:
- Musical knowledge and understanding
- Practical performance skills
- Listening and appraisal skills
- Creativity through composition and improvisation
- Confidence in performing and expressing themselves
Assessment takes place throughout each unit and focuses on pupils’ ability to:
- Keep a steady pulse and recognise rhythm patterns
- Sing and perform with increasing accuracy and confidence
- Compose simple pieces of music using learned elements
- Listen to and discuss different styles of music
Teachers use ongoing assessment during lessons to monitor pupils’ progress and ensure that knowledge and skills are developing in line with the progression set out in the Kapow Primary curriculum.
By the end of Year 6, pupils leave Adderley Primary School with the confidence to perform, create and appreciate music, as well as a strong foundation for further musical learning.
You can view our curriculum plans here: