Music at Tirlebrook Primary School

"Where words fail, music speaks." Hans Christian Andersen

"Music is life itself." Louis Armstrong

At Tirlebrook, our Music curriculum enables all children to experience music as a shared, inclusive and meaningful part of school life. Music is valued as a way for children to feel a strong sense of belonging, to express themselves and to connect with others. Through a carefully sequenced curriculum, pupils develop enjoyment, confidence and a personal connection with music, while learning to respect the diverse musical traditions and cultures that shape our world.

Music is taught through weekly, well‑planned lessons from Reception to Year 6, supported by the GetSet4Music scheme, which provides clear progression in singing, listening, performing, composing and appraising. Learning builds step by step and revisits key skills so that children remember more and can apply their knowledge with increasing independence. Regular whole‑school and key‑stage singing further develops vocal technique, musical understanding and a shared school identity.

Children learn through practical, engaging activities including singing, playing tuned and untuned instruments, movement, discussion and performance. Vocabulary is introduced progressively so that pupils become confident in using accurate musical language. Lessons are inclusive and adapted, ensuring that all children, including those with SEND, participate meaningfully and experience success.

Learning is enriched through whole‑class instrumental tuition, performances, visitors, trips and extra‑curricular opportunities, enabling children to experience music both independently and collaboratively. Strong partnerships with Gloucestershire Music and local organisations further enhance musical learning and community engagement.

Children record and share their musical learning in a variety of ways, including through performance, discussion and creative responses. Teachers use ongoing assessment to monitor progress, support next steps and ensure that all pupils achieve well.

By the time children leave Tirlebrook, they are confident, enthusiastic and reflective musicians who can listen attentively, perform with pride and talk thoughtfully about music using appropriate vocabulary. Children understand that music acts as a powerful way to communicate, persevere through challenge, support positive mental health and wellbeing and contribute positively to both school life and the wider community, preparing them well for the next stage of their education.