At Oldway, all of our children are musicians. We progress from EYFS, developing skills and knowledge throughout Key Stage Two. Music is inclusive and all children participate in the lessons, using the Music Room where possible. We ensure that musicianship skills are continually developed through all of our music lessons.

Singing is important at Oldway. As well as singing in class, we have weekly Singing Assemblies, to develop our technique and experience a range of songs and listening in different genres. Further development in singing is offered through Performing Arts club in which children strengthen their own skills, as well as having the opportunity to work and perform locally and nationally in groups such as Young Voices, or have vocal lessons from a visiting music teacher.

In class, our children experience a range of instruments, from untuned percussion, to glockenspiels, ukuleles and violins. Music is taught regularly and lessons are supported through the Hub funded online music provider Charanga, as well as a music specialist who provides planning support and ensures progression from one year group to the next for class teachers. The subject lead monitors music through pupil conferencing, observations and discussions with staff. Assessment is formative, in the moment, and learning outcomes are recorded to show progression in line with National Curriculum expectations.

In year 5, the local Music Hub supports extra provision through Whole Class Ensemble Tuition funding. This is used to fund a professional violinist to provide class lessons for a term in addition to continued provision in smaller groups. 

It is important that the children in Oldway develop as well-rounded musicians, focussing on solo and ensemble performance skills, as well as composition and active listening and appraising. They improve their own and others’ work through their listening skills. Children are regularly offered performance opportunities to family and friends. 

As well as music in class, children are given the opportunity to progress further through lessons with visiting peripatetic teachers. Lessons are offered on a variety of instruments. As well as Performing Arts Club, Oldway partners with Torbay and South Devon Music Centre to offer a weekly orchestra. Children who are eligible for the Pupil Premium grant can access lessons subsidised by the school.