Subject Lead: Elizabeth Pitts

At BCS Prep, Music is at the heart of our creative life. Joyful, inclusive and inspiring, it enables every pupil to develop confidence, imagination and a lifelong love of creative expression. Through singing, composing, listening and performing, pupils build strong musical foundations while experiencing a wide range of styles, cultures and traditions.

What Pupils Learn

Early Years
Children explore music through singing, movement and play. They experiment with sound using their voices, body percussion and instruments, developing rhythm, listening skills and confidence while discovering the enjoyment of making music together.

Key Stage 1
Pupils develop skills in singing, rhythm and ensemble performance. They begin to compose simple pieces, explore early notation and listen to a wide range of music, developing the vocabulary and confidence to describe what they hear.

Key Stage 2
Pupils become increasingly independent musicians, performing with confidence, composing with greater structure and reading simple notation. Singing remains central alongside instrumental work and technology, while listening and appraisal broaden pupils’ understanding of different musical styles, cultures and historical periods.

How We Teach

Music is taught through active participation, with pupils learning by singing, playing, composing, listening and performing. Creative and inclusive lessons support every learner, with cross-curricular links and digital technology enhancing musical understanding. Confident musicians are given opportunities for further challenge, exploration and development.

Enrichment & Assessment

Music extends well beyond the classroom through choirs, concerts, assemblies, class performances and musical theatre productions. Pupils have regular opportunities to perform individually and as part of an ensemble. Progress in performing, composing and listening is assessed through observation, performance and feedback, supported by termly reviews.

Celebrating Achievement

Performance is an important part of celebrating musical achievement at BCS Prep. Concerts, assemblies, productions and school events give pupils opportunities to showcase their talents and recognise their progress at every level. Performing together builds confidence and pride while creating a strong sense of community and shared enjoyment of music.