At Ardingly Prep, we take great pride in our vibrant music department. As well as their own dedicated Head of Music for the Prep School, our pupils benefit from all the resources of the College’s outstanding Music department and specialist Music Teachers.
Music Curriculum
Children from Nursery to Year 6 engage in fun and interactive music sessions every week. Our unique and creative music curriculum, based on the Kodaly and Orff models, is designed around listening, creating, and performing. Each year group follows a bespoke music curriculum tailored to their age. By the end of Key Stage 2, students can read and play notation independently, thanks to the violin string academy scheme in Year 3 and exposure to other instruments during their time at Prep.
Music Events
Regular events such as the Christmas Nativity, Assemblies and Open Mornings provide opportunities for children to showcase their progress and also to build their confidence as performers. Instrumental players can join various ensembles, and each term ends with a Prep Concert in the Chapel. We also hold a regular series of Informal Concerts, which allow children to perform in a more relaxed setting each term.
Music Enrichment
We host regular workshops and masterclasses from visiting experts and organise a wide range of trips to enrich our pupils’ musical experiences. Our visiting music teachers deliver inspiring, pupil-centric lessons across various genres, ensuring a well-rounded musical education.
Facts about Prep Music
Fiddlers String Ensemble, Mini Fiddlers, Cello Choir, Concert Band, Music Club, Guitar Ensemble, and Percussion Ensemble.
Musical Groups in the Prep School
More than 50% of our children from Reception to Year 6 learn an instrument.
Who plays instruments?
In recent exams we achieved a 100% pass rate, and celebrated many Merits and Distinctions.
Exams
Prep pupils currently play: violin, viola, cello, double bass, trumpet, French horn, euphonium, tuba, recorder, flute, oboe, saxophone, clarinet, voice, electric and acoustic guitar, drumkit, marimba, piano, and organ.
Choice of instruments
"Year 6 pupils participate in the annual Young Musician of the Year competition. They learn to perform in front of their peers and understand the basics of performance and audience etiquette. They are encouraged to comment on each other's performances sensitively, building self-confidence and self-esteem."
"Music at Ardingly College has been an incredible journey for our child. The variety of instruments and the encouragement from teachers have really boosted their confidence."
Prep Music Gallery
Miss Carpenter, Head of Prep Music
Easter Concert
Prep Young Musician for the Year
Easter Concert
Brass Funky Workshop
Benedetti Workshop
African Drumming Workshop
Playing at a local care home
Prep Summer Concert
Prep Summer Concert
Prep Young Musician for the Year
