Music

At Forge Wood, we firmly believe that Music ignites all areas of a child’s development and improves their skills for school readiness, including intellectual, social-emotional, motor, language, memory and overall literacy.  Therefore, our intention is that music will be accessible for all and will enhance their development whilst engaging and inspiring them to grow a musical talent and a lifelong love of music.

Our music curriculum develops a sequence of learning in the following key areas which, all contribute towards the steadily increasing development of musicianship:

• Singing

• Listening

• Composing

• Performing/Instrumental Performance.

As they learn to express themselves through these concepts, children will develop the self-confidence to share their skills and creativity.

Within Key Stage 1, the children experience songs and games that begin to develop their aural skills, as well as emphasising turn taking, memory and oracy. In Year 2, they also have the opportunity to learn an instrument as a whole class. Currently, this is the recorder.

In Key Stage 2, our children will be exposed to a variety of genres, traditions and historical periods of Music during their lessons, as they study distinct topics which will reinforce the development of their aural awareness of pitch and rhythm. These topics can range from Ancient Greece to Video and Computer game scores. One year group will also have whole class lessons on an orchestral instrument, currently this is the cornet.

All children participate in performances, whether that be class assemblies or whole year productions. There are also end of term concerts for those learning an instrument as an extra-curricular activity.

The school runs a choir in Key Stage 2 for any pupil who wishes to sing. They practise a wide range of songs from folk to classical, including musical theatre and pop arrangements. They have sung in concerts and performed at the Christmas fairs.

At Forge Wood, we believe all these experiences enhance creativity, thinking skills and communication, as well as nurture our children’s health and well-being.