Music
Staffing: Mr Battye (Head of Department), Mrs Smith and Mr Openshaw
Instrumental teachers: Mrs J Green (Clarinet), Miss A Shipton (Flute), Mr D Williams (Violin), Mr M Golding (Brass) and Mr K Wallace (Guitar)
The department is accommodated in a newly adapted area of the school. Two main classrooms are equipped with a range of instrumental resources including recorders, guitars, and drum kits. The department has access to 18 computers using Sibelius music software and a DJ mixing desk.
Key Stage 3
All students in Years 7-9 (Key Stage 3) are taught one hour of classroom based music per week. The emphasis of the curriculum is to engage students in practical music making activities and all the taught units of study involve practical performance and composition activities. Attainment at the end of the Key Stage is above the LEA and National averages with over 80% of students achieving a National Curriculum Level 5 or above.
Key Stage 4
Music is a popular subject at Key Stage 4 where students follow the AQA 4270 Syllabus. The course allows students to develop analytical listening skills, composition skills and performance skills. Students are taught in mixed ability groups. Examination results are generally above the national average for the subject:
| Year | Students achieving an A*-C grade |
|---|---|
| 2006 | 100% |
| 2007 | 60% |
| 2008 | 85% |
| 2009 | 77% |
| 2010 | 100% |
| 2011 | 83% |
Extra Curricular Activities
Students are encouraged to take part in a range of musical activities. The Year 7 choir, Chamber choir and Concert Band meet on a weekly basis and are well attended. Rock bands have been formed by students in each year group and these rehearse on a weekly basis at lunchtime. The department produces a concert at Christmas and in the spring and music plays an important role in the annual Carol service that takes place at Bury Parish Church. The choirs and bands also perform for school communion services. In conjunction with the Drama department, the Music department produces an annual school production. In recent years the musicals have been: Bugsy, Joseph, Oliver, Annie and the Wizard of Oz.
Instrumental Music Lessons
All students have the opportunity to learn a musical instrument during their time at the school. Instrumental lessons are provided by visiting staff from the Bury Music Service. Extended ensemble activities are provided by the music service and many of our students take part in these activities.
