Curriculum Intent Overview

The Music curriculum at Mowbray Education Trust aims to unlock the creative potential of all pupils, fostering a lifelong appreciation for music. Through progressive and engaging learning experiences, we equip students with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to express themselves musically.

Across Key Stages 3 and 4, students will explore a wide range of musical genres, styles, and traditions, developing a strong understanding of music’s fundamental elements, such as melody, harmony, rhythm, and texture. Practical music-making is at the core of the curriculum, with opportunities to play instruments, both individually and as part of ensembles, and to create original compositions using traditional notation and music technology. Students will also develop their listening and analytical skills, learning to critically appraise a variety of musical examples.

The curriculum progresses with a spiral approach, revisiting core concepts while introducing more complex ideas as students move through Key Stage 3 and into Key Stage 4. Students will build a solid foundation in Key Stage 3 and then engage in more challenging analysis, advanced performance techniques, and sophisticated composition tasks in Key Stage 4.

Beyond musical expertise, the curriculum fosters important life skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, and resilience. Students also have opportunities to perform and collaborate with the wider school community, instilling a sense of pride and belonging. Ultimately, we aim to inspire pupils to become lifelong advocates and practitioners of music.