Why do we teach Music at The Whitehouse?
At The Whitehouse the intention is that children gain a firm understanding of what music is through listening, singing, playing, evaluating, analysing, and composing across a wide variety of styles, traditions, and musical genres. Our objective at The Whitehouse Special School is to develop a curiosity for the subject, as well as an understanding and acceptance of the validity and importance of all types of music, and an unbiased respect for the role that music may wish to be expressed in any person’s life. At The Whitehouse we recognise the mental health benefits of music and an appreciation that music is able to reach all children regardless of needs and ability. We are committed to ensuring children understand the value and importance of music in the wider community, and are able to use their musical skills, knowledge, and experiences to involve themselves in music, in a variety of different contexts using a wide range of musical instruments and techniques including I.T, instruments and vocals.
What is the Music curriculum offer at The Whitehouse?
Our whole curriculum is shaped by our school vision, which aims to enable all children, regardless of background, ability, additional needs, to flourish to become the very best version of themselves they can possibly be. The music curriculum ensures children have the opportunities to sing, listen, play, perform and evaluate. This is further enhanced and embedded in the classroom through music-based projects in PSHE, turn taking and our personalised learning topic work.
We encourage our children to learn the language of music and understand how it is made, played, appreciated and analysed. We focus on different dimensions of music, which in turn feeds their understanding when listening, playing, or analysing music. We support our children to find their own love of music, which could be playing an instrument or learning to sing. Every child has the opportunity to participate in weekly lessons and attend additional extra-curricular clubs and be musically creative in their own right.
How are knowledge and skills acquired in Music?
We teach the National Curriculum, supported by a clear skills and knowledge progression. This ensures that skills and knowledge are built on year by year and sequenced appropriately to maximise learning for all children. During the year, all children will have the opportunity to develop their understanding, skills and techniques in music.
What enrichment opportunities do pupils receive in Music?
At The Whitehouse we work closely with the local music service to ensure high quality music lessons and also work closely with local artists to develop different musical styles and genres.
