“Nurturing creative, ambitious and independent performers, composers and listeners who celebrate cultural diversity.”

“Music is all around us. It is the soundtrack to our lives. Music connects us through people and places in our ever-changing world. It is creative, collaborative, celebratory, and challenging.”

— DFE Music March 2021

“Creativity and culture have a particular role to play…they allow us to reflect and comment on society, to better understand our own lives and those of others.”

— Arts Council England, Strategy 2020 – 2030

At The Herewoode Academy, we believe every learner is a musician. Our music curriculum is designed to spark creativity, build confidence, and foster a lifelong love of learning through engaging in active music participation. Whether students are picking up an instrument for the first time or refining their vocal technique, we support every individual on their unique musical journey.

Our curriculum is built around three core disciplines: Performance, Composition, and Musical Understanding. This has been developed in line with NOVA Education Trust curriculum initiatives and the Department for Education’s Model Music Curriculum. It offers a rich blend of practical experience and academic study, ensuring all learners are empowered to explore music as both an expressive art form and a rigorous subject.

Key Stage 3: Building Foundations

In Years 7 to 9, students study music weekly. These sessions provide opportunities to perform, compose, and listen with intent. Learners explore a wide range of musical styles and traditions, reflect on their own work and that of others, and develop the skills to express themselves confidently and creatively.

Throughout their musical journey, pupils have rich opportunities to develop their musical skills through singing and instrumental work during lesson time. Pupils practice and refine their skills as part of an ensemble, embedding key learning principles through collaborative music-making, while building technical proficiency, teamwork, and musical understanding.

Singing is a dedicated focus in Year 7 and is thoughtfully woven throughout the Key Stage 3 curriculum, supporting vocal development and musical confidence across a range of styles and contexts. These experiences ensure that all learners are actively engaged in music and are supported to grow as expressive and capable musicians.

Key Stage 4: Deepening Musical Practice

At Key Stage 4, students embark on a more specialised and immersive musical journey, with Music offered as either a BTEC or GCSE pathway - dependent on cohort needs. Both routes provide a rich and balanced experience that nurtures musical growth and personal development. Learners benefit from three dedicated hours of music per week, engaging with core areas that foster creativity, technical proficiency, and critical understanding.