Quotes

“Where words fail, music speaks” – Hans Christian Andersen

Vision for Music at RMA

At Rushey Mead Academy, we believe that music is a vital component of a well-rounded education. Our music curriculum is designed to foster creativity, critical thinking, and a lifelong appreciation of music, while helping students develop key skills such as teamwork, discipline, and self-expression. Our goal is for every student to have access to a high-quality music education that prepares them for future success, whether they pursue music further or apply transferable skills in other fields.

  • Aim: Provide all students with a broad and engaging music curriculum that develops their musical skills, knowledge, and understanding, allowing them to appreciate a wide variety of music genres and traditions.
  • Curriculum Overview:
    • Year 7: Introduction to basic music theory, rhythm, and pitch. Exploration of different musical genres (classical, pop, rock, jazz, and world music). Developing practical skills through group performances and using technology.
    • Year 8: Deeper study of music history (Baroque, Classical, Romantic periods), practical composition, and group work. Students explore different musical styles and genres (film music, contemporary, and world music).
    • Year 9: Introduction to music composition and analysis, with an emphasis on developing a personal musical style. Focus on performance (solo and ensemble) and preparation for GCSE Music.
  • Assessment: Formative assessment through practical performance and composition tasks, along with written reflections on music studied. End-of-unit tests on music theory and historical knowledge.
  • Extra-Curricular Opportunities:
    • Choir, Jazz Band, Drum Club. Open to all students.
    • Performance Opportunities: Regular school concerts

  • Aim: Ensure students develop high-level skills in performance, composition, and music analysis. Encourage a deep understanding of music theory, history, and a range of musical styles, preparing them for success in GCSE Music and beyond.
  • Curriculum Overview:
    • Year 10: Students will focus on performance skills (solo and ensemble), composition techniques, and detailed analysis of set works (e.g., Beethoven, Pop Music, Jazz). Students will also explore the use of music technology.
    • Year 11: Focus on final exam preparation, including refining performance and composition portfolios. Students will study and analyse music from different periods and cultures (e.g., classical, popular, world music, and film scores).
    • Component Breakdown:
      • Performance (30%): One solo and one ensemble performance, recorded and assessed.
      • Composition (30%): Two compositions (one free choice, one in response to a brief).
      • Listening and Appraising (40%): Written exam based on set works and aural skills.
  • Assessment: Ongoing feedback through performance recordings and written analysis. End-of-topic tests on music theory, listening, and appraising skills.
  • Extra-Curricular Opportunities:
    • Music Revision Sessions: Offered after school for GCSE students to support exam preparation.
    • Choir, Jazz Band, Drum Club. Open to all students.
    • Performance Opportunities: Regular school concerts.

Key Priorities for Improvement (2024)

  1. Review the KS3 Music curriculum to consider retention of key vocabulary and develop listening skills.
  2. Plan more opportunities for musical theory elements into the Music curriculum, starting in KS3 in readiness for KS4.
  3. Embed MADTSHIRT into the curriculum in all modules to develop understanding and recall of the elements of music.
  4. Develop an awareness of wider musical genres in relation to music theory to hone composition skills.
  5. Develop Music homework for KS3 through online platforms a link between learning in the classroom and learning at home.

Faculty Staff

Mrs S Hunter– Curriculum Leader
Mr P. Bacon – Teacher of Music