Music is an integral part of school life and we aim to inspire and encourage pupils to develop a love of music through vibrant and fun lessons and enrichment opportunities outside of the normal school day.

Pupils from age 3 have weekly music lessons with the Director of Music and Music is part of the school curriculum up to Year 9 when pupils can choose to take it as a GCSE.

Our Music Department is run by our Director of Music and we have eight peripatetic music teachers who visit school throughout the week to offer one to one music lessons in singing and a range of different instruments.

Peripatetic Music lessons are available and are offered as 20 or 30 minute lessons. Pupils can learn for enjoyment or have the opportunity to work towards ABRSM grades and work from grade 1 up to grade 8. Grade 6 to 8 can also be used as UCAS points as part of university or college applications.

St. James’ has a Senior choir and an orchestra who practice before school each week. The Senior choir have pupils who are more experienced in performance alongside pupils who are just starting their music journey.

All music groups and pupils who sing or play an instrument have lots of opportunities throughout the school year to perform on stage to an audience. This helps with confidence building and performance skills as well as discovering the enjoyment experienced when playing together.