' I think music in itself is healing. It's an explosive expression of humanity. It's something we are all touched by. No matter what culture we're from, everyone loves music.'  Billy Joel

Our vision for music:

At Bedford we believe Music is a universal way of communicating thoughts, ideas and emotions. It also has a positive impact on the mental health and well-being of children. It is a fully inclusive subject which develops children’s listening skills, as well as their motor skills, creativity, teamwork, discipline, perseverance, confidence and self-esteem, as well as their musical knowledge. Music is a huge part of a person’s identity and culture, which is why at Bedford we are continually working to develop our curriculum and extend our provision.

Skills needed to be a Bedford musician:

About music at Bedford:

To ensure our music curriculum is varied and meets the needs of our children, we have devised our own bespoke teaching programme, following guidance from the DFE Model Music Curriculum. The core of our curriculum is based around the Charanga scheme. However, alongside these lessons we have planned within our curriculum for teaching elements of the Friday Afternoon project, Liverpool Cathedral Schools Singing Project and whole class instrument teaching from our music hub.  Within this scheme, children are exposed to a wide variety of musical styles and composers, both modern, classical and from an array of different cultures. Children are given the opportunity to perform as soloists or as part of a  large or small group. They are also taught to play the glockenspiel and from Year 4 onwards are taught to play the recorder. Performing and celebrating musical achievements is a vital aspect of this subject and something we strive to provide opportunities for.

Due to the specialist nature of music teaching, Years 5 - 6 are currently taught by the music subject lead, supported by instrumental teachers from our local music hub.  Alongside this, Year 2 follow the Liverpool Cathedral Schools Singing Project, and are taught by specialist music teachers from the cathedral throughout the year. . 

Music skills:

Our music curriculum at Bedford is based around 5 key skills.

Extra curricular:

During their time at Bedford there are many extra-curricular music or performance based activities for children to attend. We have a  KS2 choir, dance and musical theatre clubs. In addition to more formal performances, whenever possible, our choir 'give back' to their community with appearances at  local events. We have strong links with Liverpool Anglican Cathedral and all children have the opportunity to access their outreach education programmes, performing in the cathedral and auditioning for their various choirs. We have a number of children who have been successful in joining their chorister programme.

At Bedford we are constantly evaluating our music offer and frequently take part in projects which we feel will enhance our children's musical experiences. 

Artsmark:

At Bedford we believe that music and 'the arts' are vitally important and are committed to developing these areas of the curriculum. In September 2023 we were awarded Silver Artsmark. For the last 2 years we have been working towards our next award and have recently submitted our final statement of impact.

Useful Music links: