How Music is taught at St Scholastica's 

Designed to teach the whole music curriculum from Reception to Year 6, the Junior Jam do this by teaching three core subjects, Music Theory with Keyboards, Songwriting with Glockenspiels and Singing, which are delivered across three half terms throughout the year. The remaining three half terms within an academic year will be instrument focused in order to ensure pupils have the opportunity to perform on a variety of tuned and untuned instrumentation from a wide range of different cultures. Junior Jam instructors ensure children get a well-rounded mix of instrumentation.

Being a musician at St Scholastica's means:

Being a good musician in the primary music curriculum means developing key musical skills such as:

• developing abilities in listening, performing, composing, and improvising.
• understanding basic musical concepts and explore diverse genres and traditions.
• using music as a tool for self-expression and storytelling.
• working effectively with others in group music activities.
• reflecting on and evaluate musical performances.
• showing curiosity, enthusiasm, and a willingness to explore music.
• building confidence to perform and embrace learning through mistakes.
• connecting music with other subjects to enrich understanding.

In the primary music curriculum, being a "good musician" is less about mastery and more about developing a well-rounded appreciation, competence, and enjoyment of music. It’s about creating a foundation that encourages lifelong engagement with music.

Trips, Visits and Workshops

During their time at St scholastica's children will have the opportunity to experience Music through:

• Trips: Visit concert halls, music festivals, museums (e.g., British Music Experience), orchestra rehearsals, or historic music sites like Handel & Hendrix in London. Explore outdoor sound trails.
• Visits: Invite musicians, instrument makers, or cultural ambassadors to showcase different music styles and traditions.
• Workshops:  Drumming, singing, music technology, dance, composing, soundscapes, or musical theatre workshops.
• Community Links: Collaborating with local schools through the Hackney School Music Service to explore diverse musical traditions.

Music at Home

These activities are a wonderful way to nurture a love for music and create meaningful family moments!

1. Homemade Instrument

• Create shakers with rice or beans in sealed containers.
• Use pots, pans, and wooden spoons to make a drum kit.
• Craft string instruments using rubber bands and empty boxes.

2. Sing-Alongs

• Sing favourite songs together or learn nursery rhymes and folk songs.
• Use karaoke apps or YouTube for guided sing-alongs.

3. Rhythm Games

• Clap or tap rhythms for your child to copy.
• Play a "call and response" rhythm game using household items as percussion.

4. Music and Movement

• Dance to different styles of music and explore how each one makes you move.
• Try freeze dance—stop moving when the music pauses!

5. Listening Adventures

• Listen to a variety of music (classical, jazz, world music) and discuss how it makes them feel.
• Encourage them to draw or act out a story inspired by the music.

6. Compose a Song

• Write simple lyrics about a favourite topic or activity.
• Experiment with melodies on a keyboard or by humming tunes.

7. Explore Music Technology

• Use apps or online tools to create beats, loops, or virtual instruments.
• Record and playback performances to build confidence.