Music

How We Teach Music at Waterside Academy

At Waterside Academy, we believe music is a vital part of every child’s education, fostering creativity, confidence, and a love of expression. Using the Charanga Musical School Scheme, our music curriculum is designed to engage children in an exciting, practical, and progressive journey of musical learning from Reception to Year 6.

Each music lesson follows a structured yet flexible approach, ensuring children develop a deep understanding of musical concepts while enjoying hands-on activities. Lessons are centred around three core elements: listening and appraising, musical activities, and performance. Pupils explore key dimensions of music—such as pulse, rhythm, pitch, and dynamics—through singing, playing instruments, improvising, and composing.

Singing is at the heart of our music lessons, providing a foundation for all other musical activities. Children are encouraged to play both tuned and untuned instruments, including glockenspiels, recorders, and even their own band or orchestral instruments if available. Improvisation and composition give pupils the opportunity to express their creativity and deepen their understanding of music.

Performances are a key part of the programme, allowing children to share their learning with others and build pride in their achievements. Each year ends with a special “Reflect, Rewind, and Replay” unit, which consolidates the year’s learning through revision and extension activities.