At John Hellins Primary School, it is vital that we establish a rich and engaging musical culture. In order to achieve this to the very best of our ability, we provide all children with weekly singing assemblies (where we relish in the opportunity to sing as an ensemble, as well as learn some music theory and language). We also give the children the opportunity to learn a tuned instrument in both Key Stage 1 and 2 (with support from external providers, such as NMPAT).

The children also have access to a wide selection of percussion instruments, and the opportunity to join, sing and represent John Hellins in our KS2 school choir. Alongside lessons and our whole school musical community, music is also integrated discreetly in other manners. Teachers are encouraged to use music to set a calming, tranquil ambience in the classroom when writing, or often music is integrated within art or PSHE lessons, such as music therapy and drawing.

Music lessons are taught in line with each class’s project, linking to the national curriculum at all times. Music lessons consistently enable our pupils to draw on the ability to play, compose, perform, sing and evaluate. Music can be found in other areas too. English lessons could be spent exploring lyrics (including rap) which is a great way to engage children with new vocabulary, rhyme, performance, and to discuss issues across the wider world. Religious Education lessons could also include music and how music is celebrated in many communities and cultures around the world.

Within school, we have a range of musical resources and equipment. Most notably, the children love to experiment with the untuned percussion instruments. The app GarageBand on the iPads is also used to allow the children to explore a vast range of musical instruments at the touch of a button, as well as Chrome Music Lab which is accessible on all technology too.