Music
At St Martin’s, we believe that music is a powerful and essential part of every child’s education. Our curriculum is designed to inspire creativity, build confidence, and develop a lifelong love of music. Through high-quality, practical musical experiences, children develop their musical understanding, technical skills, and appreciation of a wide range of genres and traditions.
We follow the Charanga Music Scheme, created by the Devon Schools Music Team, which provides a carefully planned, progressive curriculum from Early Years to Year 6. Charanga ensures that all pupils experience a broad and balanced music education, with opportunities to listen, appraise, compose, improvise and perform. Lessons are engaging, practical and inclusive, enabling every child to succeed regardless of their starting point.
A key strength of music at St Martin’s is our commitment to providing children with opportunities to learn and play a variety of musical instruments during their time at school. Through Charanga and additional whole-class instrumental projects, pupils gain hands-on experience with instruments such as recorders, glockenspiels, ukuleles, percussion instruments, and others as appropriate. These experiences help children develop technical control, musical notation skills, and ensemble awareness.
Throughout their musical journey, pupils are encouraged to express themselves, collaborate with others, and reflect on their learning. Singing is embedded across the school and used to promote well-being, community, and joyful participation. Children also have the chance to perform in class, across the school, and at wider community events, helping them grow in confidence and pride.
By the end of their time at St Martin’s, our learners will have developed strong musical foundations, broad experiences, and the confidence to take their musical interests further. Our aim is for every child to leave with curiosity, enjoyment, and appreciation for the powerful role that music plays in their lives and in the wider world.
