We teach music at The Wordsley School to help students grow in confidence, creativity, and collaboration. Music allows every student to express themselves, discover a passion, and build skill and knowledge in this much-loved art form—through instrumental performance, listening, and composition. Our music curriculum is designed to be inclusive, ambitious, and engaging for all learners, and grounded in our key concepts of Listening, Performing, and Composing.

Students in Key Stage 3 follow a sequenced and progressive curriculum. In Year 7, they explore a range of musical styles that we consider the foundations of music, from Baroque to Hip Hop. Students will focus on building core musical knowledge and skills through keyboard and vocal performance. This strong foundation ensures that all students, regardless of prior experience, have the tools they need to succeed.

In Year 8, students build upon these foundations and explore styles from across the globe, from Samba, to Dub Reggae. They continue to develop their keyboard skill and theory knowledge, culminating in learning a piece of graded exam music from RSL’s Classical Piano syllabus.

In Year 9, the curriculum broadens to include band-based learning with a focus on contemporary styles, such as pop and rock music. Students choose an instrument—drums, bass, guitar, vocals or keyboard—and build ensemble and solo performance skills, with a final solo assessment showcasing their progress and individual musical development.

Composing is interwoven throughout the curriculum and is delivered using Cubase, equipping students with the ability to create and arrange music using industry-standard software. This supports their understanding of musical structure, creativity, and technology.

Our extensive extra-curricular programme complements classroom learning, offering students opportunities to participate in three annual performances, as well as rehearsals, singing groups, and band clubs. These experiences enrich cultural capital, promote collaboration, and build confidence beyond the classroom. We also work in partnership with Dudley Performing Arts to offer instrumental lessons, giving students the chance to develop their skills further with specialist tutors.