Music at Ashbourne Primary School

Our curriculum brings joy, inclusion and self-expression to the fore.

At Ashbourne Primary, children develop a love of music through singing, playing instruments and performing together. Pupils are encouraged to express themselves creatively, building confidence and enjoyment in music.

Participation is at the heart of our provision. Pupils take part in direct teaching, extra-curricular opportunities and performances, including choir, bands, concerts and individual lessons. Special assemblies provide opportunities for singing, listening to and learning about a range of composers and musical styles.

Our Music Provision

All children learn to play a variety of instruments, including:

• Untuned percussion
• Tuned percussion
• Handbells
• Recorders
• An orchestral instrument in Year 6

Our choir, bands and instrumentalists perform regularly, including concerts, community events and a large musical production in the summer. These opportunities help to build confidence, teamwork and a sense of achievement.

Curriculum Progression

Our music curriculum is carefully planned and sequenced over a two-year cycle:

• Key Stage 1 (Years 1 and 2) – pupils develop foundational knowledge of musical concepts and begin to explore rhythm, pitch and performance
• Lower Key Stage 2 (Years 3 and 4) – pupils deepen their understanding and develop greater control and expression
• Upper Key Stage 2 (Years 5 and 6) – pupils build on prior learning to perform, compose and evaluate music with increasing confidence and independence

We recognise that learning takes time and repetition. Our curriculum is designed to ensure that key knowledge and musical skills are embedded in pupils’ long-term memory, enabling them to apply their understanding across a range of musical experiences.

Linked to Our Golden Threads

Our music curriculum supports our Golden Threads:

• Language and Literacy – pupils develop listening skills and musical vocabulary, enabling them to describe and evaluate music
• Resilience and Regulation – pupils build confidence through practice, performance and learning from mistakes
• Belonging and Becoming – pupils experience a strong sense of belonging through shared musical experiences and performances

Through our music curriculum, pupils:

• Develop confidence in singing, playing and performing
• Build a secure understanding of musical concepts
• Experience a wide range of musical styles and traditions
• Develop creativity and self-expression
• Take pride in performing and contributing to the school community