Music
At Bassingbourn, we want every pupil to enjoy making music and to grow in confidence as a singer, player and composer. Through music, pupils listen to a wide range of styles, express themselves creatively and experience the joy of performing together.
How we teach music
We teach music using the Kapow Primary scheme of work, which is fully aligned with the National Curriculum. Every class has a weekly music lesson, and the whole school comes together each week for a singing assembly. Our classes are mixed-age, so units follow a two-year rolling programme.
In Reception, music is part of Expressive Arts and Design, as children sing songs, explore sounds and move to music.
What pupils learn
Each year, pupils build their skills in:
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Singing, from simple songs to singing in parts
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Playing tuned and untuned instruments, including playing in a band
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Listening to and appraising music from different times, places and traditions
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Composing and improvising, including with music technology
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Reading and writing musical notation
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Performing for an audience
Along the way, pupils learn about the elements of music, such as pulse, rhythm, pitch and dynamics, and explore styles from reggae and blues to Baroque, Bhangra and samba.
Music for every pupil
In music, singing together, clear modelling and repetition help every pupil join in and succeed. Teachers adapt instruments, parts and ways of recording, for example using simpler rhythms, colour-coded notation or music technology. Lessons are adapted for pupils with SEND, so they can take part fully. For those ready for more challenge, teachers encourage them to take on harder parts, lead a group or compose more independently.
Beyond the classroom
Our school choir rehearses each week, and has been invited to sing in the local community, including at care homes. Pupils can also learn an instrument in school, with band lessons from Rocksteady and lessons from a visiting piano teacher. Families pay for these lessons, and support with the cost may be available. Please contact the school office to find out more.
