At North Downs, we strive, through the effective teaching and learning of the knowledge, skills and understanding in music, to maintain and stimulate pupil curiosity, interest and enjoyment. We cover the National Curriculum requirements for music through the use of ‘Charanga’.  

The Charanga Musical School Scheme provides teachers with week-by-week lesson support for each year group in the school. It provides lesson plans, assessment, clear progression, and engaging and exciting whiteboard resources to support every lesson. The Scheme supports all the requirements of the national curriculum.

In line with the curriculum for music, this Scheme provides an integrated, practical, exploratory and child-led approach to musical learning.

Each Unit of Work within the scheme focuses on the strands of musical learning which correspond with the national curriculum for music:

1. Listening and Appraising
2. Singing
3. Playing/ Composition
4. Performing

Alongside our music curriculum, we run our ever popular school choir. This is regularly attended by children in Key Stage 2, who are always enthusiastic, committed and motivated to succeed. Pupils are encouraged to take part in performances including our annual Christmas concerts, the Surrey Arts Music Festival at the Dorking Halls and our end of year leaver’s performance.

We have, currently, instrumental teachers leading weekly sessions for the keyboard, piano, flute, guitar and brass. We encourage pupils to come together to play as an ensemble for special events in and around school whilst liaising with Surrey Arts to maximise wider musical opportunities for all of our children.

For further information regarding our Music curriculum please contact Mrs Deeks, our Subject Lead, by emailing info@northdowns.surrey.sch.uk