Why we teach music

There is rhythm in all life. We learn to recognise and interact with it. Participation in music teaches us to read ahead, to respond in real time to feedback, work in a team, and to develop creative works. Music builds bonds – something essential in thriving communities.

Through music education, we contribute to preparing young people for adult life.

Our vision for music at St Paul's

Students will leave St Paul’s as confident, ambitious music makers with the skill to communicate effectively through sound. They will have built the key knowledge which demystifies their soundscape and provides cultural capital to pupils from diverse backgrounds. The music curriculum maintains coherence through carefully sequenced lessons which give opportunities to hear, see, practice and perform with appropriately-spaced repetition. We respond to the learning needs of pupils through the discerning use of assessment, adjusting curriculum content to ensure that musical knowledge remains accessible. We carefully consider resourcing to ensure that practical barriers to participation are tackled, allowing all sections of our community to progress on their journeys toward music mastery. Our class-based offer is enriched through ensemble opportunities such as choirs and bands, along with performances, workshops and visits.

GCSE Music

What will I study? 

Music as a discipline encompasses academia and creativity. We each have a unique musical identity that is informed by our life experience, background and social situation. GCSE Music is an exciting, inspiring yet challenging course that will appeal to students with a strong interest in music. Taking music as a GCSE enables students to develop self-expression, evaluate how music makes them feel and its impact on the world around them, and build listening, performance and composition skills. 

Through music, we can learn so much about different cultures and historical contexts, as music represents the ever-changing societal landscapes in our world. This therefore allows music lessons to play an integral part in the development of students' cultural capital. Why Study GCSE Music? At St Paul's Academy, the Music department offers a superb package for GCSE students. 

What skills will I develop? 

In our GCSE Music course, students delve into a vibrant mix of music, from timeless classics to modern genres like DJing, beatboxing and rap. We balance both the practical and academic sides of music, ensuring a well-rounded education. Students explore global music traditions, develop skills in composition and performance, and learn about music theory in a variety of contexts. Each student receives individual music tuition, tailored to their interests and strengths. Students studying GCSE music benefit from access to our purpose-built studio facilities for practising, recording and editing their music. This course not only nurtures musical talent but also develops critical thinking and creativity, preparing students for a bright future in both music and academics. 

How will I be assessed? 

The course is divided into three areas:

Component 1: Performing (30%) – Students are required to record 2 performances, one solo and one as part of an ensemble. 

Component 2: Composing (30%) – Students are required to compose 2 compositions under controlled conditions in the Editing Suite.

Component 3: Appraising (40%) – Students are required to sit a written listening paper (1hr 45 min) at the end of their course.

Where can this course take me? 

This course leads well into creative arts A-Levels including, of course, music. Students who wish to continue musical study often use their qualifications and skills in radio, television, the film industry, theatre, education and independent content creation.

Head of Department: Mr B Barrett