Music
Our Music curriculum aims to equip learners with the skills and attributes to become successful ‘seekers of knowledge’ reflecting Berwick Academy’s core values of friendship, learning and respect. We help students to develop their work ethic, being on time, on side and on task and adhering to The Berwick Way.
Music encourages students to become problem solvers through skill-based learning and collaboration with others. Underpinned by a comprehensive ‘understanding of music’ programme, students are free to express themselves and are encouraged to develop their skillsets by learning that trying and failing are part of the learning process. Students are able to reflect and grow, whilst being supported and challenged.
As learners progress from KS3 to KS5, we aim to equip all students with the skills to function as a working musician, contribute in our thriving local music scene, and work regionally and nationally in music-based careers.
Above and beyond the curriculum, music encourages students to engage respectfully with others in our school and local community. It is a creative outlet and therapy for many students.
Enrichment plays a big part in the music curriculum and something we are very proud of being able to offer to our musical community. Students have the option to engage with professional instrumental, vocal and production tuition and opportunities to be involved with community projects such as The Inspired Project, opera immersion days, BA Music Festivals, Xmas Factor and Community Choir. Many opportunities are also taken to make use of our professional recording studio and practice facilities designed to enable students to develop their professional practices.
For more detailed information about Music, please make reference to the following curriculum plan(s). Please note, curriculum plans are developed on an ongoing basis.
Inspired Music
Berwick Academy music department works closely with “The Inspired Project”. Every year students can audition for a chance to enrol on the course (10 spaces available). Successful candidates work closely with industry professionals to compose and record an original song and perform to hundreds of appreciative fans, as well as learn about the ever expanding music industry through attending workshops and masterclasses to hone their musicianship.
The project also calls for support musicians to back the inspired performers during their live shows. Please speak with Mr Holleywell or contact Iain Petrie if you wish to arrange an audition.
“Inspired! Changed my life” – FY
“Literally the best thing I’ve ever done!” – GP
Graded Exams
Students are encouraged to work towards graded instrumental exams with their instrumental tutors. The Associate Board of Royal School for Music (ABRSM), London College of Music, (LCM), Trinity College London, Rockschool grades 1 – 8 are all available upon request.
Curriculum
KS3 Music:
Term 1 Soundtracks and movie music
Term 2 Samba
Term 3 Battle of the Bands
KS4 Music:
AQA GCSE Music 8271
KS5 Music:
BTEC Extended Certificate in Music Performance
or
BTEC Extended Certificate in Digital Music Production (Music Technology)
Breaks and Lunchtimes:
Thursday and Friday break and lunchtime practice rooms and studio are available for booking to rehearse and record.
