The academic musical education at Loughborough Schools Foundation begins in the Early Years. All pupils at EYFS and Key Stage 1 receive class music lessons from our team of specialist teachers and are given many opportunities for singing and playing. A Kodaly-based curriculum is used throughout the school. This highly accredited approach lays firm musical foundations and builds a strong practical and technical understanding of music as well as enhancing all areas of learning.
In the Early Years children play singing games, play untuned percussion and learn a huge range of songs and rhymes. Music is fun and playful, enhanced by attractive and engaging percussion, puppets and other resources. In the Pre Prep, pupils learn and use key musical skills and concepts in their singing and playing – this includes the foundations of musical literacy. As pupils progress into Upper Prep, more complex and technical skills are developed as pupils discover English Folk Song, learn more about the history of music, explore music around the world and use music software to write their own pop songs. Pupils learn to read music fluently and develop ensemble skills in singing and playing. At every level Music lessons include singing and games – this is a fundamental aspect of the Kodaly approach and ensures that lessons are enjoyable and engaging.
In addition to class music lessons, we operate a Year 2 and a Year 4 Instrumental Scheme. All Year 2 children receive Colourstrings tuition on either violin, cello or double bass; all Year 4 children receive instrumental tuition on either trumpet, trombone, flute, clarinet or percussion. Both schemes enhance musical knowledge and understanding, and are tremendously popular with pupils.
