Music

Key Stage 4

Subject Statement

The Music department works to enable Key Stage 4 students at New Directions to build self-confidence and self-esteem through their engagement in a wide range of music-related activities, performances, and practical events. We create a supportive, fun, and safe environment for our young people to learn at their own pace, work collaboratively or individually, and express themselves creatively. Learning in Music helps students develop their creative talent alongside crucial social, emotional, and communication skills.

Students at Key Stage 4 are given the opportunity to gain a BTEC Introductory Award in Performing Arts, with a core focus on the unit Performing a Piece of Music. The purpose of this qualification is to help students develop the transferable skills, practical attributes, and professional behaviors needed to progress into further education, training, and employment. The qualification requires learners to complete routine, simple, and directed practical tasks by applying their musical knowledge and performance skills.

The Introductory Award is structured entirely around practical performance skills and hands-on tasks, enabling students to showcase what they can do rather than relying on written theory. Students focus on choosing material, planning rehearsals, mastering techniques, and delivering a musical performance using specialist equipment.

As they progress through their tasks, students set their own personal targets and continuously evaluate their development. There is no written exam at the end of this course; students build a practical portfolio of evidence—such as video/audio recordings, rehearsal logs, and self-evaluations—to demonstrate they have met all assessment criteria, which are internally assessed.

Course Overview and Facilities

Practical Study Areas

Students engage directly with professional music practices and equipment, using our purpose-built sound studio, recording equipment, Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs), and a range of acoustic and electric instruments.

Key areas of study include:

• Performing a Piece of Music: Selecting suitable vocal or instrumental pieces, establishing a rehearsal routine, developing technique, and recording or staging a final performance.
• Music Technology & Production: Basics of track creation, sequencing, and using DAWs.
• Working in the Creative Industries: Understanding professional roles, managing music projects, and building self-reliance.

Assessment and Feedback

Students receive continuous 1-on-1 practical guidance and verbal feedback, helping them refine their technical and expressive skills. Assessment is ongoing and based entirely on practical coursework outcomes, rehearsal logs, and reflective reviews.

Students learn to identify their strengths and areas for growth throughout the rehearsal process. Portfolio evidence typically includes:

• Video and audio recordings of practice sessions and final performances
• Rehearsal logs and target-setting sheets
• Short spoken or audio-recorded commentaries and peer reviews

How Parents and Carers Can Help

• Encourage your child to explore vocational interests and discuss potential career pathways.
• Ensure your child brings any required personal medication on vocational activity days.
• Support regular attendance (aiming for at least 90%) across all vocational placements.
• Encourage your child to build and maintain their portfolio of evidence for their qualifications.

Contact

Performing Arts, Music Drama Lead 

Music Teacher 

Steve Timson : steve.timson@prus.newham.sch.uk