Music

The aim of Performing Arts at The Westgate School is to provide all students with a wide range of experiences, skills and knowledge that prepares them to intellectually and creatively interact and succeed in our ever-changing world. We strive to instil a respect for traditions within the Arts and encourage exploration of innovation in performance and creative work.

Through the development of critical and analytical thought we aim to foster an enduring curiosity and passion, and nurture individual growth. An appreciation of creative expression aids to harness their virtuosic licence whilst cultivating their sense of self. 

Subject Pledge

Curriculum Overview

Key Stage 3

Music - Year 7 & 8 Overview

Key Stage 4

Music - Year 9, 10 & 11 Overview

More Department Information

KS3

Musical learning is about thinking and acting as a musician. This means that music lessons at The Westgate School have a strong practical focus, learning in and through music. Over the course of the three years, students will develop their independent and group skills by composing, performing and analysing different genres of music. Some of these genres include Rap, Film Music, Jazz and Blues, Musical notation, Song arrangement, Bhangra, African Drumming, Samba and Reggae. Aural skills are developed through listening, singing and ensemble work, giving pupils of all abilities the chance to appreciate and understand their own work and that of others.

KS4

At GCSE, we follow the OCR syllabus - which in itself is a natural progression from the studies undertaken in previous years. The syllabus focuses on 4 main Areas of Study: Rhythms from around the world; film music; the concerto through time; the conventions of pop music. 30% of the course is made up of a solo and ensemble performance, 30% 2 compositions and 40% a listening paper based on the 4 areas of study.

Instrumental Lessons

As well as studying Music as a subject at The Westgate School, your child will also have the chance to learn a musical instrument. This is a great way to take part in a fun activity where they can enjoy playing music with others, perform to family and friends and take part in many activities in school, and across Slough. We also know that learning to play an instrument is very good for a child’s overall development across the curriculum, contributing to literacy and numeracy, as well as key life and social skills. The Westgate School is offering a wide range of instrumental tuition for all students, and it would be great to see as many students as possible taking up this fantastic opportunity.

Lessons would take place during the school day and are offered in groups, or individually. Group lessons are more effective and affordable and are recommended, especially for beginners.

Your child would also need an instrument to learn on. We would suggest hiring an instrument from Slough Music Service, or we have a limited amount of instruments available for hire within the school.

Slough Music Service offer reduced lesson charges for low income families. For more information about this, please see the Slough Music Service website below which gives a breakdown of all costs.

Students may choose from the following instruments:

If you wish your son/daughter to take up instrumental lessons, please collect a form from the Music Department, or fill out a form online on the following website, Slough Music Service.

School Music Development Plan

For further information, please contact our Head of  Department

Mr Jones ~ DJO@westgate.slough.sch.uk

You are perfectly cast in your life. I can't imagine anyone but you in the role. Go play.  ~Lin Manuel Miranda