At Cotteridge Primary School, we believe that music is a powerful and enriching part of every child’s education. Our vision is to provide every pupil with high-quality musical experiences that engage, inspire and develop a lifelong love of music.

Through listening, creating, composing, performing and evaluating a wide range of musical styles and traditions, children develop confidence, creativity and musical understanding. We aim for every child to leave our school with a secure foundation of musical knowledge and skills, alongside a genuine appreciation of music and its ability to bring people together.

Music Curriculum

The Charanga Scheme of Work is used from EYFS to Year 6 to provide a progressive and well-sequenced music curriculum. Through this scheme, pupils experience a broad range of musical genres and cultures while developing their skills in singing, performing, composing, improvising and listening.

Lessons provide regular practical opportunities for children to explore music, develop their musicianship and express themselves creatively. The curriculum enables pupils to build on prior learning and develop a deeper understanding of the interrelated dimensions of music, including pitch, duration, dynamics, tempo, timbre, texture and structure.

Enrichment Opportunities

We are committed to ensuring that all children have access to enriching musical experiences beyond the classroom.

Children have opportunities to learn instruments through extra-curricular provision, while pupils in Years 4 to 6 can participate in our lunchtime choir. The choir regularly performs within the local community and has proudly taken part in the Youth Proms at Symphony Hall for a number of years.

Music Day, held during the autumn term, allows children to explore the work of significant musicians in greater depth. Pupils respond creatively through a range of activities, including performance, composition and music technology.

We also value the contribution of musicians from the wider community. During Diversity Week, visiting artists work alongside children to broaden their musical experiences and understanding of different cultures. Previous workshops have included Bhangra dancing and African drumming, providing memorable and inspiring opportunities for all pupils.

Singing is an important part of school life at Cotteridge. Through weekly singing assemblies, children come together to develop their vocal skills, confidence and sense of community and our annual ‘Carols around the Tree’ celebration provides a perfect opportunity for the Cotteridge community to come together through music. Pupils, families, staff and members of the local community join in this special event, celebrating the festive season while strengthening the sense of belonging and community that music helps to create.

Music Development Plan

In line with Department for Education expectations and the National Plan for Music Education, Cotteridge Primary School’s Music Development Plan aims to:

• Ensure all pupils receive a high-quality, inclusive and ambitious music education.
• Develop children’s understanding of the interrelated dimensions of music.
• Promote progression in singing, listening, composing and performing.
• Provide opportunities for children to perform regularly and develop confidence as musicians.

Music Development Plan