Welcome to the Eastcroft Park Music Page

Our Music lead is Mrs Arnold (Nursery class teacher)

BEd Hons Eng/Drama

MUSIC RATIONALE

Inclusion:

At Eastcroft Park, we believe that every child should have the opportunity to enjoy and succeed in music. Our curriculum, supported by the Charanga/ Wigan music schemes, is designed to be fully inclusive and accessible to all pupils. Lessons are carefully structured to meet the needs of all learners, with clear modelling, repetition, and visual support to help every child engage with musical concepts. All children have the chance to learn and perform using instruments such as the Ukulele and Glockenspiel, regardless of prior experience or ability. Adaptations are made where necessary to support children with additional needs, including the use of simplified rhythms, small group support, or alternative methods of participation. Through singing, listening, composing and performing, we ensure that every child can experience the joy of music and express themselves creatively.

Communication, Language and Vocabulary:

Music at Eastcroft Park plays an important role in developing children’s communication and language skills. Through the Charanga/Wigan schemes, pupils are introduced to a wide range of musical vocabulary—such as tempo, dynamics, pitch, and rhythm—which they use to describe and discuss what they hear and play. Children are encouraged to talk about music using the correct terms, explain their choices, and reflect on how music makes them feel. Singing helps to build confidence with language and pronunciation, while group/class performances promote listening, turn-taking, and collaboration. Whether composing lyrics, exploring musical genres from around the world, or learning new songs, our music lessons give children rich opportunities to express themselves and build their spoken language in a creative, supportive environment.

Aspirations:

At Eastcroft Park, we want our children to see the possibilities that music can offer. Our music curriculum is designed to inspire creativity, self-expression and a love of performance. As children progress through school, they learn to sing, compose and play instruments such as the Ukulele and Glockenspiel, helping them to grow in confidence and musical ability. We also study key composers and musicians in each year group—spanning a wide range of time periods, styles and cultures—so that pupils can see how music connects to history, identity, and the wider world. By experiencing the richness of music and the achievements of real-life composers, we aim to show children that music can be a pathway to future learning, careers, and personal fulfilment. Whether they choose to pursue music professionally or enjoy it as a lifelong passion, we want every child to believe that their voice and creativity matter.

Mental Health:

Music plays a valuable role in supporting children’s mental health and emotional wellbeing at Eastcroft Park. Through singing, listening, and playing instruments, pupils are given space to relax, express themselves and explore their emotions in a positive way. Music lessons provide a calm, creative outlet where children can build confidence, release tension, and develop a sense of achievement. Whether performing together or simply enjoying the mood of a piece, music helps children connect with themselves and others, supporting their overall happiness and resilience in school and beyond.

Cultural Capital: 

At Eastcroft Park, we believe that music enriches children’s lives and broadens their horizons. Through our music curriculum, pupils are exposed to a wide range of musical styles, cultures, and traditions—from classical and jazz to world music and contemporary genres. They learn about influential composers and musicians from around the globe, helping them appreciate the diversity and history of music. Learning to perform, compose, and understand music not only builds creativity and discipline but also opens doors to future opportunities in education, culture and the arts. Whether attending a live performance, taking part in a school assembly, or simply discovering a love of music, our pupils gain experiences that enhance their cultural awareness, confidence, and life chances far beyond the classroom.

Tolerance and Diversity:

At Eastcroft Park, our music curriculum celebrates the rich diversity of musical traditions from around the world. Children explore music from a variety of cultures, time periods and communities, helping them to appreciate different perspectives and develop respect for others. By listening to and performing music from a range of genres and backgrounds, pupils learn that music is a universal language that connects people across cultures. We also highlight the contributions of diverse composers, musicians and musical styles, challenging stereotypes and promoting inclusivity. Through these experiences, children gain a deeper understanding of the world around them and learn to value diversity, teamwork and shared expression.