Music
Music is taught as a discrete subject within Expressive Arts. A common theme is decided upon each term to be interpreted by Art, Drama and Music. The theme is carried through to Expressive Arts installations and performances, such as International Week.
Music is used throughout the school for self-expression, communication and celebration. From April 2012 a number of pupils began to receive individual piano lessons. This instrumental tuition has now been extended to give pupils the opportunity to learn the double bass and from September 2013 the school will employ a peripatetic teacher for drumming. Various ensembles rehearse throughout the week including a choir, rhythm group and jazz trio. These ensembles perform at school assemblies and celebrations. Singing is an integral part of routines, particularly in Primary where songs are used to help pupils to transition. Singing takes place in both Primary and Secondary assemblies when the choir perform alongside other pupils.
Partnerships with outside organisations are a key strength of the Music department and each year projects take place with: Spitalfields Music; Royal Academy of Music; Guildhall School of Music and Barbican Creative Learning; Drake Music; Orchestra of St Johns. In January 2013 the Music Department began piloting the Introduction to Music OCN qualification for pupils in KS3 in partnership with Drake Music.