In Year 2 and Year 3, all pupils learn to play the recorder as part of our music curriculum. This helps them develop key musical skills such as reading notation, understanding rhythm, and improving breath control. We use the Kodály teaching method, which focuses on singing and aural skills as the foundation for musical learning, making it fun and accessible for all children. 

Children who wish to continue learning the recorder can join our elective after-school music club, where they build on their skills and explore more challenging pieces. 

For Key Stage 2 pupils, we also offer elective piano and guitar groups. The piano group helps children learn melody, harmony, and finger technique, which enhances concentration, fine motor skills, and musical creativity. The guitar group introduces pupils to chords, strumming patterns, and accompaniment skills, building their sense of rhythm and coordination. Both instruments encourage perseverance and self-expression, while giving pupils the confidence to perform and enjoy music in a collaborative setting. These opportunities allow children to deepen their musical understanding and experience the joy of making music together. 

Rocksteady Music School delivers weekly tuition on electric drums, guitars and keyboards. 

Singing is an important part of our school’s musical life. Every week, pupils take part in a singing assembly where they learn a wide range of songs and develop vocal skills such as pitch, tone, and expression. There is also the opportunity to join our school choir, which gives children the chance to develop their singing technique, learn to sing in harmony, and experience performing as part of a group. Being in the choir helps pupils build confidence, teamwork, and listening skills, as they work together to create a polished performance. 

In addition, pupils learn new songs each month in assembly as part of our ‘listen and appraise’ focus, helping them explore different genres and cultures. We also have trained Song Leaders who lead singing games in the playground, making music fun and social. Through these experiences, children gain confidence, improve memory and listening skills, and develop an understanding of musical elements such as melody, harmony, and dynamics—all while enjoying the joy of singing together.

We have planned music concerts each term, giving pupils the chance to showcase their talents and celebrate their progress. Beyond these, we are creating opportunities for our pupils to perform to the wider community and collaborate with other schools, helping them build confidence and experience performing in different settings. 

In the Autumn and Spring terms, we will host community festivals that combine music with cultural celebrations, bringing families and local groups together to share in the joy of creativity. These events will feature performances from pupils and highlight the rich diversity of traditions through song, dance, and instrumental music. In the Summer, we hold an Eid Mela; a vibrant celebration that brings together music, dance, and art.  

We recognise that to raise standards in music for our pupils, we need to invest in our staff. This year we have a robust plan of CPD in music for staff, delivered by the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire music specialists. As well as this, teachers develop musical expertise by working alongside the RBC musicians and team teaching their music lessons. 

Lead School of Music 

In 2025, our school was proud to be named as a Lead School of Music for Birmingham, a recognition of the high-quality music education we provide and our commitment to creativity and excellence. This role means we support and inspire other schools across the city by sharing expertise, leading professional development, and creating more opportunities for young people to engage with music. As a Lead School of Music, we work closely with partners to ensure that all pupils, regardless of background, can access rich and inspiring musical experiences that develop confidence, talent, and a lifelong love of music.