Music

Subject Lead: Elizabeth Pitts

At BCS Prep, Music is at the heart of our creative life. We believe music should be joyful, inclusive, and inspiring, helping every pupil to develop confidence, imagination, and a love of creative expression. From their first experiences of sound and rhythm to performing on stage, pupils explore music through singing, composing, listening, and ensemble work.

Our curriculum combines strong musical foundations with a creative, practical approach. Pupils experience a wide range of styles, cultures, and traditions, using both traditional musicianship and modern technology. Music-making is central to school life, uniting pupils through choirs, performances, musical theatre, and instrumental learning.

What Pupils Learn

Early Years
Music is taught through singing, movement, and play. Pupils explore sound using their voices, body percussion, and instruments, developing rhythm, listening skills, and confidence while enjoying making music together.

Key Stage 1
Pupils build skills in singing, rhythm, and ensemble playing. They begin composing simple pieces, exploring notation, and listening to a broad range of music, developing the language to describe what they hear.

Key Stage 2
Pupils become increasingly independent musicians, performing confidently, composing with structure, and reading simple notation. Singing remains central, alongside instrumental work and the use of technology. Listening and appraisal broaden pupils’ understanding of music from different cultures, styles, and periods.

How We Teach

• Practical, hands-on lessons

• Creative and inclusive teaching

• Cross-curricular links

• Use of technology

• Challenge and extension for confident learners

Enrichment

Music at BCS Prep extends beyond the classroom through choirs, concerts, assemblies, class performances, and musical theatre productions. Pupils are encouraged to perform regularly and celebrate progress at every level, building confidence, pride, and a strong sense of community.

Assessment

Progress is assessed through observation, feedback, and performance rather than formal testing. Assessment focuses on performing, composing, and listening, with regular formative feedback and termly reviews to support development.