Music Intent
Music is a powerful and unique form of communication that can change the way pupils feel, think and act. It is a ‘universal language’ and therefore must be universally accessible to all children. It increases self-discipline and creativity and gives opportunity for personal expression and fulfilment. It can enhance cognitive development, help develop social skills, promote positive self-image and build confidence in other subjects.
At West Hoathly Church of England School, we aim to provide children with skills and knowledge through an enriched music curriculum, enabling them to become life-long learners of the future with high aspirations, echoing our School’s vision to ‘be strong; be courageous.’ (1 Corinthians 16v. 13b-14). Our music lessons support children to develop their resilience and reflectiveness.
At West Hoathly CofE School, we pride ourselves on encouraging enjoyment of music making, particularly with singing. ‘If music be the food of love, play on’ (Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night). As our School vision states, ‘do everything in love’ (1 Corinthians 16v. 14), children are encouraged to use singing as a well-being tool to increase a positive mind-set via singing assemblies. In the EYFS, children learn using nursery songs, progressing to learning songs in Year 6 for the School end of year play. We find Music is an ideal way of developing reciprocity by encouraging children to work in groups to ‘love thy neighbour as thyself’ (Matthew 22:39).
Music helps develop a sense of community and also fosters an increasing understanding of the world. We provide opportunities for every child to develop a love of music by creating, playing and performing, both individually and in groups, and enable them to appreciate and evaluate a wide variety of musical styles and genres.
