Department overview

Through performing, composing and appraising, pupils develop creativity, confidence and resilience while applying musical knowledge across a range of contexts. Our inclusive music curriculum fosters independence, teamwork and cultural understanding, inspiring every pupil to enjoy music and express themselves creatively.

Key Stage 3 curriculum

All pupils will perform confidently as soloists and as part of an ensemble, developing skills on instruments such as piano, ukulele and guitar while learning relevant musical notation. Through ambition and resilience, pupils will strive for excellence in performance, composition and improvisation. They will explore a wide range of musical genres, identify orchestral instruments and use musical vocabulary to analyse and describe music. Pupils will also develop their creativity and technical skills through the use of music technology.

Key Stage 4 curriculum

Students following the Eduqas GCSE Music course will develop confidence as both solo and ensemble performers through the study of a wide range of musical styles and genres. Pupils will build technical and expressive skills on their chosen instrument or voice while developing an understanding of musical notation and performance conventions. Through composing and improvising, students will create original music using music technology, including Cubase, Logic and Sibelius, to refine and present their work. Pupils will also develop listening and appraising skills by analysing set works and unfamiliar music using accurate musical vocabulary. Through ambition, creativity and resilience, students will gain the knowledge and skills needed to become confident, independent and reflective musicians.

Key Stage 5 curriculum

Students studying the RSL Subsidiary Diploma in Music Performance will develop advanced performance skills as both soloists and ensemble musicians, demonstrating technical control, stylistic awareness, expression and confident stage presence. Through the study and performance of a wide range of musical genres, students will refine their rehearsal techniques, improvisation and musicianship skills while building a deeper understanding of the music industry. Learners will also develop listening, analytical and reflective skills, evaluating performances and musical features using appropriate terminology. Through ambition, resilience and creativity, students will strive for excellence and become confident, independent performers prepared for further study and live performance opportunities.

Catholic Social Teaching

Music across KS3, KS4 and KS5 promotes the principles of Catholic Social Teaching by encouraging dignity, respect, community and participation through collaborative learning and performance. Pupils explore music from a wide range of cultures, traditions and historical contexts, developing an appreciation of diversity and the value of every individual’s contribution. Ensemble performance and composition foster teamwork, solidarity and responsibility, while opportunities for leadership and creativity build confidence and resilience. Through studying music linked to social justice, identity and human experience, pupils reflect on moral and cultural issues and develop empathy and understanding. Our inclusive curriculum ensures that all pupils, regardless of background or ability, can access and succeed in music, supporting the belief that everyone has unique gifts and talents that should be nurtured and celebrated

Enrichment opportunities

Year 7 Choir
Offered to: Year 7's
When: Lunchtime

Boys Choir
Offered to: Year 7 - 13
When: Lunchtime

St. Mary's Choir
Offered to: Year 8 - 13
When: Lunchtime

String Group
Offered to: Year 8 - 13
When: Lunchtime

Chamber Choir
Offered to: Year 7 - 13
When: After School

Rock School
Offered to: Year 7 - 13
When: After School

Brass Group
Offered to: Year 7 - 13
When: Lunchtime

Wigan Songfest
Offered to: Year 7 - 13
When: Lunchtime rehearsals for the event

The Good Shepherd Mass
Offered to: Invite due to 30 pupil limit
When: Lunchtime rehearsal for the event

*Instrumental provision from Wigan Music Service is open to all pupils in Year 7 - 13 but this comes at an additional cost.

Curriculum road map

Year 7

• Singing
• Keyboard Skills
• Ukulele
• The Blues
• Programme Music

Year 8

• Indian Music
• Keyboard
• Band Skills
• Music Technology

Year 9

• Development of Pop
• Band Skills
• Waltz

Year 10 and Year 11

• Performing 30%
• Composition 30%
• Appraising 40%
• Elements of Music
• Bach Badinerie
• Africa Toto
• AOS 1 Musical Forms and Devices
• AOS2 Music For Ensemble
• AOS3 Film Music
• AOS4 Popular Music

Year 12

• Improving Instrumental Techniques
• Session Musician
• Music Event Management

Year 13

• Lead Performer
• External Assessment
• Planning for a career in music

Useful websites

• Kennedy Center Instrument Spotter’s Guide
• BBC Bitesize Music
• MusicTheory.net
• Classic FM Instruments

Careers