Music

Head of Department
Miss F Jones

Qualifications

• BA Hons in Secondary Education with Music 

The Music Department at Pleckgate aims to provide pupils with the skills and knowledge to enable them to develop as confident musicians through creative exploration of our carefully designed curriculum. Here at Pleckgate we believe that fulfilling pupils with a passion for music is a vital part of their learning journey. Music promotes respect within the classroom as pupils are encouraged to perform and share their work in front of their classroom peers. pupils will also learn to show an appreciation and understanding for the traditions and customs of other cultures both musically and otherwise.

Our Key Stage 3 curriculum uses guidance from the national curriculum for music to educate all pupils about a variety of different styles including African Music, Film Music, Jazz and Blues, Musical Theatre and Latin American Music. Throughout Key Stage 3 all pupils have the opportunity to develop both their practical and non-practical skills through the three disciplines of music; listening, performance and composition. 

At Key Stage 4 pupils will have the option to take the Pearson BTEC Tech Award in Music Practice. The Tech Award gives pupils the opportunity to develop sector-specific applied knowledge and skills through realistic vocational contexts. The main focus is on four areas of equal importance, which cover the: development of key skills that prove learners’ aptitude in music, such as responding to a musical brief using musical skills and techniques. Processes that underpin effective ways of working in the music sector, such as the development of musical ideas, and using skills and techniques for rehearsal, creation, production and performance to respond to a music brief. Attitudes that are considered most important in the music sector, including personal management and communication. Knowledge that underpins effective use of skills, processes and attitudes in the sector, such as musical skills and styles.

In the classroom, pupils are encouraged to be ambitious with their own musical ability. Music teaches pupils to work together creating a safe space to experiment and express themselves. This promotes a healthy attitude to learning where individual and group performance is both welcomed and celebrated. Through music, pupils are able to master skills such as teamwork and communication, self-management, creativity, discipline and patience. These are all favourable attributes regarded highly by future employers. 

Our peripatetic music teacher tailors each lesson to the needs of the individual through their chosen instrument. pupils can play and perform confidently, both solo and ensemble, using their voice and instruments fluently with accuracy and expression. We currently offer lessons on the following instruments; piano/keyboard, drums, guitar and bass guitar, ukulele, singing, trumpet, trombone with an option to take highly prestigious instrumental exams.

Careers in music include; sound engineer, musical director, session musician, recording studio manager, music or instrumental teacher.

• Learning Journey – Year 7
• Learning Journey – Year 8
• Learning Journey – Year 9
• Learning Journey – Year 10 BTEC
• Learning Journey – Year 11 BTEC
• Learning Journey – Year 11 GCSE

Please note,  every subject exercise book your child has contains a subject ‘Pleckgate Learning Journey’ that outlines the content covered, timelines and assessment points for the current year.