About the Department

We study Music to experience a rich variety of practical activities and cultural encounters that span an exciting range of styles and genres. Our curriculum is designed to inspire and engage all learners through creative, challenging, and rewarding experiences. We aim to foster independence, confidence, and musical competence, while nurturing a deep appreciation of music in all its forms. Pupils gain valuable opportunities to perform both independently and collaboratively, developing resilience, self-discipline, and reflective skills through the rehearsal process. Rooted in our Jewish ethos of “Let there be light through faith and work,” our music curriculum seeks to cultivate creativity, discipline, and a lifelong love for the arts. 
 

The Music Department offers a vibrant programme of extra-curricular activities, including a wind band, two choirs, an orchestra, and a string ensemble. Pupils are also encouraged to form and lead their own groups, building leadership skills and confidence as performers. Annual highlights include winter and summer concerts held both in school and at local venues. 

Beyond this, we will host regular concerts and recitals, take part in local and national festivals, and collaborate with other schools, choirs, and organisations to raise funds for charities. We also organise trips to universities, theatres, concert halls, and galleries, giving pupils the chance to broaden their cultural horizons and explore potential pathways into the arts. Our staff are deeply committed to supporting pupils’ futures while championing the importance of arts education. 
 

Pupils are guided by a team of experienced and passionate musicians who live and breathe music. Our staff embrace genres ranging from Baroque to Britpop, and many actively perform in choirs, bands, and ensembles beyond the school—because we believe that to teach music, you must also make music. 
 

At Key Stage 3, pupils embark on a musical journey exploring themes such as Programme Music, Film Music, World Music, and Popular Music. Each topic allows them to develop skills in both composition and performance. At GCSE (Eduqas), pupils study a wide variety of genres and styles, further strengthening their abilities in performance, composition, and appraisal, while gaining an understanding of music in a wider cultural context. At A Level (AQA), pupils have the freedom to specialise in areas of personal interest, tailoring their studies to their strengths with the full support of the department. 

Above all, our goal is to provide opportunities for every student—whether they see themselves as musicians or not—to enjoy, explore, and expand their knowledge of music. We strive to stretch the most gifted performers while also ensuring that every learner can experience the joy and value of music. We celebrate all traditions and genres equally, encouraging pupils to embrace the diversity of the musical world. Through music, they learn creativity, perseverance, dedication, and focus—skills that will serve them well throughout life, whatever career they pursue. 

Our curriculum is not only about building successful learners who strive for excellence but also about creating a department where pupils feel safe, supported, and free to express themselves.