Faculty Leader: Miss L. Dorrian
Creativity and expression are at the heart of our Expressive Arts Curriculum at Friars Academy. Students have access to a range of extra-curricular activities to enhance their learning as well opportunities to take part in projects as a result of our partnership with Northamptonshire Music and Performing Arts Trust.
Music
Music is an integral part of life at Friars Academy. It is a powerful, unique form of communication that can change the way students feel, think and act. Music enables personal expression, reflection and emotional development and promotes students’ spiritual, cultural and social development. The learning of music develops an awareness and appreciation of musical traditions, from the past and present, in a variety of cultures and societies. This helps students understand themselves and relate to others, forging important links between the home, school and wider world. The teaching of music develops students’ ability to listen to and appreciate a wide variety of music and to make judgments about musical quality. It encourages active involvement in different forms of music making, both individual and communal, developing a sense of group identity and togetherness. It also increases self-discipline and creativity, aesthetic sensitivity and fulfilment.
Key Stage 3 Topics
Students receive one 45-minute lesson of Music each week. The Music curriculum is based on the three areas of; listening and appraising, performing (solo and ensemble) and composing. Students learn about a range of styles of Music. They sing, learn how to play traditional instruments and also develop their Music Technology skills.
We have a well-resourced Music Department facilities including 6 iMacs with USB Keyboards and our own School Radio Equipment. We are also very fortunate to have a range of instruments such as; keyboards, guitars, drums, ukuleles, steel pans, as well as a selection of percussion instruments, including a Samba Kit.
Key Stage 4
In Key Stage 4, some students work towards the Bronze Arts Award. This qualification consists of four strands:
Part A: Take Part
Students participate in a range of musical activities, from listening to composing and performing.
Part B: Be the Audience
Students watch and review a performance (live or pre-recorded). They write a review and share it with their peers.
Part C: Arts Inspiration
Students research a musician, singer, band, actor, author, artist etc. that they are interested in. They find out about what they are famous for and explain why they are inspired by them.
Part D: Skills Share
Students plan and prepare a mini ‘lesson’ for their peers to showcase the skills that they have learnt.
The course is assessed internally which is then externally moderated. Since being introduced at Friars Academy, there has been a 100% pass rate.
We have also recently introduced the AQA Unit Award Scheme which allows students to gain further accreditations in Music.
Career / Progression Opportunities
Participation in Music and Drama lessons will provide students with an experience that demonstrates they have a passion for the Expressive Arts; that they can be a team player, they can stand up in front of other people and present their thoughts or ideas with personality and are willing to approach new ideas with an open mind. The confidence and communication skills learnt through Music and Drama will go a long way in helping our students when making new acquaintances or talking to potential future employers. Using the skills, growing confidence and experience gained in Expressive Arts, students are encouraged to perform in the annual talent show.
Extra – Curricular Opportunities
- Music club takes place on Thursday after school.
- Choir club takes place on Friday Lunchtimes.