Pupils in Years 7, 8 and 9 receive one lesson per week, and follow a curriculum that develops their creativity, practical skills and theoretical knowledge. A range of topics and instruments are covered throughout the KS3 course, and use of music technology, such as Logic Pro and Dorico, is used to compose, record, arrange and edit.
 
We understand that every pupil’s experience of music is different, and the level in which they enter Year 7 is often completely dependent on the quality of their primary school’s Music provision. Therefore, the KS3 Music curriculum is designed to equip pupils for the demands of the GCSE Music course, irrespective of where they started in Year 7. 

Whether pupils continue to do GCSE Music or not, they should all leave KS3 Music with a broader understanding of other cultures; an appreciation and knowledge of a range of music and instruments; improved team building and communication skills; experience of public performance; and a wealth of other transferable skills.

Exam Board: Edexcel

Course: GCSE Music (9-1)

Link to specification: CLICK HERE

To study GCSE Music, it's recommended that students have a good grasp of music theory and be proficient on an instrument, around Grade 4 level (e.g. ABRSM, Trinity, Rockschool), but this is not essential. However, there is an expectation that GCSE Music pupils should attend at least one school ensemble and participate in music events.

Examination/Assessment:

• 1 x Solo and 1 x Ensemble performance (30%) – lasting 4 minutes in total, completed during the course, internally marked and externally moderated.
• 1 x Free and 1 x Brief composition (30%) – lasting 3 minutes in total, completed during the course, internally marked and externally moderated.
• 1 x Written exam (40%) – 1h 45m listening and appraising paper, externally examined.

The course sets students up perfectly for A-Level Music or Music Technology. Lessons consist of theory, context, writing and practical music making to prepare students for the requirements of coursework and the final exam. Pupils will explore key musical periods, from medieval to the 21st century, and have a secure understanding of the elements of music. They will leave the course with a refined musical ear and the ability to talk about music “like an expert”.

Exam Board: Edexcel

Course: A-level Music

Link to specification: CLICK HERE

Candidates for A-level Music should ideally have a Grade 6 or above in Music GCSE, be passionate about Music, and play an instrument or sing to a great standard. Having a Grade 5 in your instrument/voice is essential, and those who believe that are at this level but have not yet passed the exam must enquire instead. Students need to be able to read stave notation fluently, have an open mind to all styles of music, and an ability to write and discuss music.

Examination/Assessment:

• 1 x Solo performance (30%) - lasting at least 8 minutes, completed during the course and externally examined.
• 1 x Free and 1 x Brief composition (30%) - lasting at least 6 minutes, completed during the course and externally examined.
• 1 x Written exam (40%) - 2h 10m listening and appraising paper, externally examined.

A-level music builds on the three essential components: Performing, Composing, and Listening and Appraising. It is an excellent opportunity for students to put their musical skills to use in an academic and practical way. Students will study music from different eras and across six main areas of study: vocal music, instrumental music, popular and jazz music, film music, fusions and new directions. Candidates will finish the course as adept musical analysts, able to articulate confidently the key features of a piece of music, understand its context and influences, and give justification for the use of each element. A-level musicians will never listen to music in the same way again.

Two lessons per week take place at Richard Challoner, where the focus is on developing skills in listening and appraising, as well as regular performance coaching, to ensure students are progressing towards achieving top bands in their recital, which takes place in the final year of study.

One lesson per week takes place at Holy Cross, dedicated to composition. Students study compositional techniques in set styles, an advanced exploration of the musical elements in a practical and theoretical manner, and prepare for the two composition elements of the course.