Music
"Come, let us sing to the Lord! Let us shout joyfully to the Rock of
our salvation. "
Psalms 95:1
Overview
At Holy Family College, music is an integral part of our vibrant learning community. It supports our students in discovering their creativity, confidence and voice. Music enriches our curriculum, offering every young person the opportunity to explore, express and achieve.
Our musical culture is built on participation and belonging. From whole‑school singing and ensemble rehearsals to classroom creativity and public performances, music brings students together in shared experiences that develop teamwork, discipline and joy. Whether composing, performing or listening, our learners gain skills that empower them both in and beyond the classroom.
The joy of music-making strengthens the sense of community that defines Holy Family College. It nurtures self-belief, supports wellbeing and helps students connect with one another in a positive and uplifting way. Through music, our students grow as learners, collaborators and confident young people ready to take their place in the world.
Curriculum Intent
The music curriculum aims to foster a lifelong love of music by developing practical skills in performing, composing, and listening across diverse styles, traditions, and genres. It focuses on building musical literacy, technical proficiency with instruments/technology, and critical appreciation of music’s cultural and historical significance, preparing students for further study.
Staff
| Mr C Wilkinson | Curriculum Manager |
Resources/Facilities
The department has a large, dedicated music room equipped with 17 PC computers, each paired with a MIDI keyboard. Students are taught how to use—and regularly work with—a range of music production and notation software, including several industry‑standard DAWs and Sibelius.
There are four practice rooms where peripatetic lessons take place for drums, guitar, vocals, piano and woodwind. The main teaching room features a projector, an interactive whiteboard, and a wide selection of musical instruments such as African drums, ukuleles, guitars, percussion and electric instruments for students to use and explore.
Extended Learning and Enrichment Activities
At Holy Family College, we offer a vibrant programme of musical enrichment that encourages creativity, confidence and a love of performing. Students of all abilities are welcome to get involved and develop their skills beyond the classroom.
Our enrichment opportunities include:
- KS3 & KS4 Rock Bands – for students who want to rehearse, perform and develop their ensemble skills.
- Guitar & Ukulele Group – open to all, from beginners to more experienced players.
- Vocal Group – a friendly singing ensemble that performs at a variety of school events.
- School Musical & Pantomime – giving students the chance to take part in our annual productions, both onstage and behind the scenes.
Throughout the year, students have numerous opportunities to perform in concerts, school liturgies, open evenings and community events. These experiences help build confidence, teamwork and pride in their musical achievements.