Music

Vision

The study of music is beneficial to children and adults of all ages and here at OBA we aim to spark and nurture a passion for music in all our students by developing skills in performing, composing and appraising music.  Students are offered a wide range of internal and external opportunities to perform, and it is our aim to empower students to use these opportunities to improve key transferable skills such as resilience, confidence, team work, increased memory and emotional development.

Curriculum overview

Year 7

Curriculum includes:

  • Introduction to keyboard
  • Introduction to guitar
  • Introduction to ukulele
  • Singing
  • Notation and arranging
  • Studying a range of styles of music 
  • The elements of music

Year 8

Curriculum includes:

  • Hip Hop
  • Blues
  • Rock n Roll
  • Instruments of orchestra
  • Music production
  • Advancing on keyboard skill
  • Opportunities to play guitar, bass, drums and ukulele

Year 9

Curriculum includes:

  • Ensemble performances
  • Solo performances
  • Expanding on guitar, keyboard and production skills
  • Songwriting
  • Dance music
  • Film music
  • Pop music

The Eduqas GCSE Music course offers a well-rounded and practical approach to music education, combining performance, composition, and listening skills. It’s designed for students who are passionate about music—whether they’re performers, composers, or simply enthusiastic listeners.

Component 1: Performing (30%)

  • Duration: 4–6 minutes total
  • Assessment: Non-exam, internally assessed and externally moderated
  • Details: Students perform at least two pieces—one must be an ensemble performance (minimum 1 minute), and the other can be solo or ensemble. One piece must relate to an area of study chosen by the student.

Component 2: Composing (30%)

  • Duration: 3–6 minutes total
  • Assessment: Non-exam, internally assessed and externally moderated
  • Details: Students submit two compositions:
    • One in response to a brief set by Eduqas
    • One free composition based on their own creative ideas

Component 3: Appraising (40%)

  • Assessment: Written exam (approx. 1 hour 15 minutes)
  • Details: A listening exam covering four areas of study:
    1. Musical Forms and Devices
    2. Music for Ensemble
    3. Film Music
    4. Popular Music

Students will explore musical elements such as melody, harmony, rhythm, texture, and structure, and apply their knowledge to both familiar and unfamiliar pieces.

This course is ideal for students who want to develop their musical skills, understand music in context, and express themselves creatively. It also lays a strong foundation for further study in music at A-level or beyond.

Students will be expected to attend after school sessions and mandatory peripatetic classes (during school time) on their chosen instrument. Peripatetic lessons are free.

You can find more details on the official Eduqas GCSE Music page.

🎸 RSL Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma in Music Practitioners

A one-year, industry-focused qualification for aspiring musicians, producers, and performers.

The RSL (Rockschool) Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma is a vocational qualification designed for students who are serious about pursuing a career in the contemporary music industry. Whether you’re a performer, songwriter, producer, or technician, this course offers a practical, hands-on approach to developing your skills and understanding of the music business.

🔍 What You’ll Study

The course typically includes five units that cover a broad range of music industry disciplines. These include:

  • Careers in Music
  • How to audition for Music roles
  • Studio Sound Mixing
  • Composing & Production
  • Live Performance

Each unit is designed to help you build real-world skills in areas such as performance, composition, production, and event management.

🎧 How You’ll Learn

  • Practical workshops and rehearsals
  • Studio sessions using industry-standard equipment
  • Live performances and event planning
  • Written assignments and reflective evaluations

Assessment is coursework-based, with no final exam. All units are internally assessed and externally moderated, and you’ll receive an overall grade of Pass, Merit, or Distinction.

🎓 Progression & Career Opportunities

This qualification is equivalent to one A-level and is recognised by universities across the UK. It can lead to:

Careers in performance, production, sound engineering, music education, and more

Further study (e.g. RSL Level 3 Extended Diploma, university music courses)

Please download the learning journeys and the music development plan below:

KS3 and KS4 Learning JourneyDownload
KS5 Learning JourneyDownload
School music development plan OBADownload