Music

Music Leader: Mrs Guest

Music curriculum

Vision

At Holme Junior and Infant School, our vision for Music is shaped by our six core values: Aspirational, Adventurous, Creative, Resilient, Respectful, and Independent. These values are at the heart of our music curriculum and guide us in nurturing confident, expressive learners with a lifelong appreciation for music.

Aspirational: We believe that all children can achieve musical excellence. Whether they are learning a new instrument, composing a piece, or performing for an audience, we support pupils to set high standards for themselves. Through performances, instrumental tuition, and opportunities to showcase their talents, we help children recognise their potential and believe in their ability to succeed.

Adventurous: Music is a journey of discovery. Our pupils are encouraged to explore new genres, instruments, and styles, stepping outside of what they know to embrace the unfamiliar. We create a safe space for children to take musical risks—improvising, experimenting, and growing in confidence along the way.

Creative: Creativity is the beating heart of our music curriculum. Pupils are supported to express their emotions, thoughts and ideas through composing, singing, and performing. We value original thinking and encourage every child to find their own musical voice—whether that’s through digital software, voice, or traditional instruments.

Resilient: Learning music takes perseverance. Our children are taught that progress comes through practice, patience, and determination. We promote a growth mindset in music lessons, celebrating effort and encouraging children to bounce back from challenges, refine their skills, and keep going with pride.

Respectful: Music helps us to understand and appreciate others. We explore a diverse range of musical traditions, teaching children to listen with interest and respect. Pupils also learn to work collaboratively—whether rehearsing in a group or evaluating performances—with a focus on encouragement, kindness and shared success.

Independent: We empower our pupils to take ownership of their musical learning. From developing their own compositions to choosing how to perform a piece, we foster independence and self-confidence. Children are given the tools to explore music for themselves, helping them to build lifelong skills and passions.

Our vision is to develop pupils who not only gain musical knowledge and skills, but who also live out the values of our school. Through music, we aim to inspire children to be aspirational in their ambitions, adventurous in their learning, creative in their expression, resilient in the face of challenge, respectful of others, and independent in their thinking.

Implementation

Our music curriculum is delivered through carefully structured strands that ensure a well-rounded musical education:

• Singing: Pupils regularly engage in singing activities, developing their vocal skills and confidence. 

• Listening and Appraising: Students listen to and analyse a diverse range of music, helping them to develop critical listening skills and an appreciation for different musical styles.

• Music Theory, Rhythm, and Notation: Children are taught the fundamentals of music theory, including rhythm, pitch, and notation, providing them with the tools to understand and create music.

• Composing: Pupils explore composition, creating their own music using both traditional instruments and digital software such as Purple Mash (2Beat and 2Sequence) and Garage Band.

• Playing an Instrument: Every year group learns to play a specific instrument, building their practical skills and understanding of music:

EYFS: Children explore a variety of instruments through play, composing with non-pitched instruments such as drums.

Year 1/2: A variety of pitched and non-pitched instruments, including ocarina, recorder, and glockenspiel.

Year 3/4: Ukulele

Year 5/6: Violin

• Performing: Regular performance opportunities are provided, allowing pupils to showcase their skills in a supportive environment.

Impact

The impact of our music curriculum is curriculum is evident in the enthusiasm and confidence our pupils show when participating in musical activities.  Our pupils leave Holme School with:

• a deep understanding and appreciation of music, developed through a broad and balanced curriculum.
• confidence and experience in performing in a variety of settings, from small group performances to large public events.
• a rich awareness of the diversity of music from different cultures and genres.
• the skills to continue their musical journey, whether through further study, performance, or personal enjoyment.

Our music programme not only nurtures our pupils’ musical abilities but also contributes to their overall personal development, fostering resilience, independence, and a sense of community. Music at Holme School is more than just a subject; it is a cornerstone of our school’s vibrant and inclusive culture.

Progression of Skills

Singing Assemblies

Music Lessons through Musica Kirklees

In addition to the core curriculum, over a third of our children receive peripatetic music lessons with expert teachers from Musica Kirklees. They have the opportunity to learn instruments such as the flute, piano, a range of brass instruments, percussion, guitar, and ukulele.

Music Events and Community Engagement

Our pupils are active participants in a wide range of musical events, both within the school and in the wider community, including:

•  The Festival of Folk, Holmfirth
•  Mrs Sunderland Singing Festival
•  Music for Youth Regional Festival
•  Let’s Sing
•  Young Voices
•  Carol Singing at Various Venues: Including The Fleece Inn, Holme; Co-op, Holmfirth; and Monkey Business Playgroup, Holmbridge, Friend2Friend, Holmfirth.

A highlight of our recent achievements was being invited to perform alongside the Holmfirth High School Orchestra at the prestigious Birmingham Symphony Hall as part of the Music for Youth Festival.

Music Mark Recognition

In recognition of our commitment to providing high-quality music education, Holme School has been awarded Music Mark 2024-25, reflecting our dedication to excellence in this vital area of the curriculum.

Useful documents