Key Stage 3

STCM Music Department follows the National Curriculum Key Stage 3 and involves world music, traditional and modern forms of music and covers a wide range of experience in composing original music, playing and listening to music by established composers.

Year 7
We concentrate on learning to read basic notation and perform music, using a range of instruments. Students are given the opportunity to compose on their own and in groups.

Year 8
We build on the skills and knowledge acquired in Year 7 giving students more chance to perform and compose in specific styles of music they learn about.

Year 9
This year is designed to give students the basic skills that they will need if they wish to carry on into Key Stage 4 Music. Composition will be featured regularly as will performances. Students are encouraged to perform to their peers and develop their own styles and skills.

Key Stage 4

Music BTEC Tech Award (for teaching 2027-28)

The BTEC Tech Award in Music Practice is a specialist music industry vocational qualification with a practical focus. The aim of this qualification is to provide you with the knowledge and range of skills needed to become a successful music performer and producer. The course is equivalent to GCSE and fully accredited by OfQual and DfES.

What will I learn?

• You will develop knowledge and understanding of styles and genres of music.
• Explore techniques used to create music products.
• Explore professional and commercial skills for the music industry.
• Apply and develop individual musical skills and techniques.
• Perform stylistically accurate cover versions.
• Create original music using existing stylistic frameworks and traits.

Eduqas Level 2 Performing Arts - current year 10

The BTEC Tech Award is structured around three core components split into internal and external assessments:

• Component 1 (30%) – Exploring the Performing Arts through practical investigation of professional practitioners and rehearsal processes.
• Component 2 (30%) – Developing Skills and Techniques by reproducing existing repertoire in acting, dance, or musical theatre
• Component 3 (40%) – Responding to a Brief, a synoptic external assessment where students collaborate in small groups to create a workshop performance based on a Pearson-provided stimulus.

Key Stage 5

Music Performance BTEC - Pearson Level 3 Extended Certificate in Music Performance 

This course is suitable for all instrumentalists or vocalists who have some proficiency and a passion to develop as a performer. The course broadens experience and skills in ensemble performance and you will be required to perform in public on a regular basis throughout the course. You will perform a variety of genres covering popular music from the 1950s to the modern day. 

The course also includes training in listening, critical review and composition. The music industry is vast and diverse. It offers a huge amount of employment options to suit just about anyone looking to work in this area! 

Our course will provide you with the skills to progress into higher education and into the industry. There will be extra-curricular opportunities such as our School Productions to enrich your studies,and an expectation for you to be involved.

Teaching Team

Mr J. Waterworth
Head of Performing Arts

Mrs M. Byng

Mrs S. Williams

Curriculum Summary