music

Vision statement and intent 

The intent of the Music curriculum at Skelmanthorpe Academy is to provide a high quality education that engages and inspires our pupils, while equipping them with the knowledge and skills to appreciate and explore music across a wide range of genres and cultures. We aim to foster a love for music, develop their creative abilities, and nurture their confidence in performing and composing.

We are committed to ensuring that music education is accessible to all pupils, irrespective of their background or ability. Through a well planned and sequenced curriculum, we strive to develop our pupils' musical skills, knowledge and understanding, building on prior learning and progressively introducing more complex concepts. Our music curriculum is designed to be inclusive, encouraging pupils to work individually and collaboratively, fostering a sense of community and appreciation for diversity.

We have strong links with Kirklees Musica, and provide children with the opportunity to learn to play a range of instruments in school. All children are provided with the opportunity to take part in school performances at least once a year and our Year Five children attend the annual Kirklees Music Festival, at Huddersfield Town Hall.

As part of our curriculum offer all children in Key Stage Two have access to learning an instrument.

 SEND in the Music curriculum

Pedagogy of learning is key and individual knowledge of the SEND learners plays a part in how the curriculum can be adapted so that pupils with SEND are not disadvantaged.This information is based on research reports carried out by OFSTED and how schools can best support pupils with SEND in accessing the curriculum.

Here are some general principles within the context of the music curriculum taught at Skelmanthorpe Academy, which are particularly important for SEND learners.

• cognitive load theory
• explicit teaching of curriculum ‘components’
• clarity of instruction.

There is no one-size-fits-all approach; however, when barriers are identified and overcome, pupils’ potential can be achieved. High expectations for all pupils are therefore so important Research suggests the following strategies are important to consider for SEND learners:

• breaking down tasks
• reducing the burden on working memory
• using appropriately supportive routines
• using a combination of learning modes which enhance clarity or accessibility
• the adaption of materials to ensure good challenge which is achievable

Whole Class Musical Instrument Access Provision 2024-25

Year 1 - Glockenspiel

Year 2 - Glockenspiel

Year 3 - Recorders

Year 4 - Brass

Year 5 - Ukulele

.Delivered by Musica Kirklees

The curriculum at Skelmanthorpe Academy is designed to be ambitious for all pupils and high expectations are set for all subjects.

The sequential delivery of units and information, means that the children experience learning in chunks which do not overload the working memory, allowing pupils to build on and secure past knowledge.

Pedagogy of learning is key and individual knowledge of the SEND learners plays a part in how the curriculum can be adapted so that pupils with SEND are not disadvantaged.

This information is based on research reports carried out by OFSTED and how schools can best support pupils with SEND in accessing the curriculum.

Year 1 - Medium Term Plans

Year 2- Medium Term Plans

Year 3/4 - Medium Term Plans

Year 4/5 - Medium Term Plans