Music and Performing Arts is a strength of our school.

Pupils were previously taught through the ‘Charanga’ curriculum by our Music Lead, Mrs Simcox, who has several years of experience teaching and conducting music and music theory to children aged 3-18. Based on the ‘New 2014 Primary Curriculum’, children were immersed in a holistic approach to music teaching which combined the key skills of listening, evaluating and composing. Children were taught from Year 1 how ‘notes’ appear on a page and how music is made up, extending skills by the end of Year 6 to formal composition writing and evaluating.

Singing also features heavily in the curriculum as it is one of the most exciting ways to learn about the different ways that music can be performed and written. Children take part in a 'singing assembly' every Monday with Mrs. Simcox. We practise all of our hymns and also learn songs relevant to various celebrations and key events throughout the year. 

Throughout the years, pupils have taken part in events such as the ‘Forest Arts Singing Festival’ and ‘Young Voices’ at the LG Arena. Each term, pupils present a celebration of their musical talents to parents/carers and the annual ‘summer show’ is a highlight in the school calendar, showcasing the many talents of Castlefort pupils.

From September 2019, music at Castlefort was taught by external providers, ‘Rock-It’ Music. They teach across Years 1 to 6 and pupils learn to play a wide range of instruments including steel pan drums, ukulele, keyboard and melodica along with other percussion instruments. Pupils in Upper KS2 had the opportunity to take examinations through the London School of Music.

From April 2023, we have returned to music teaching through our in-school expert, Mrs Simcox. We are currently exploring options for a whole-school scheme either through our federation (Lighthouse) or Sing-Up.

Castlefort has achieved the National Music Quality Mark (silver standard) in recognition of its provision for music.

*See Music Long-term Plan

If you want further information about the curriculum content your child is covering please call the school office to arrange an appointment to see the subject leader.