Music can change the world. Beethoven.
A bold statement, but one echoed years later by legendary U2 singer & songwriter, Bono.
Music can change the world because it can change people. (Bono: 1983).
Two musicians separated by centuries, cultural contexts and whose musical styles are worlds apart – and yet two highly celebrated individuals that firmly believe (believed) in the transformative power of music.
Music is so more than sound—it’s a force that shapes hearts, minds, and movements Music is everywhere, in everyday and in everything we do. Whether music is used for celebration, or to comfort or to entertain – music is something that nourishes souls & enriches lives.
At Magnus we are committed to the belief that music should be accessible to all and recognise the value that quality musical experiences can have on an individual’s life. Quite simply, music is life changing, and at Magnus we don’t shy away from our duty to best equip our students for their future selves & potential careers.
This shared passion and belief goes beyond the breadth of the curriculum & the growing number of musical qualifications that can be studied at Magnus. This mission also feeds all the instrumental and ensemble opportunities that are available to our students and that will ultimately continue to fuel the ongoing developments. This is not a department that stands still, but one that is constantly adjusting to demand, advancements in technology & pathways for further study / jobs in the industry. (*Please refer to the academy’s 3 year music development plan if you would like more information).
Extra Curricular Activities
Instrumental Lessons
All students are offered the opportunity to learn an instrument at a heavily subsidised cost as we believe that everyone should have the opportunity & talent should be valued and nurtured.
Pupils are given the opportunity to have instrumental lessons on a wide range of musical instruments, including most orchestral instruments, voice, piano, drums, bass & guitar. Lessons are 20 minutes long and take place during the school day. Pupils may be taught individually, or in small groups, depending on the nature of the instrument, availability of time, the standard of the pupil. Pupils are given an instrument to use while they are receiving lessons. A contribution of £30.00 per half term is requested to help towards the cost of this tuition. It should be noted that this is merely a small contribution and in no way reflects the true cost of tuition fees and instrument hire. (Lessons are established after each student has completed some trial lessons and has shown satisfactory commitment and aptitude. Once enrolled a student is committed to complete a term’s worth of lessons – payments being made at the beginning of that term).
Ensembles
The faculty is committed to honouring the musical heritage of the school and dedicated to reviving the ‘Magnus Swing Band’ which is growing in strength and quality every day.
There is a wide programme of extra-curricular activities, including Concert Band, Swing Band, Worship Band and choir (Magnus Academy Voices). These ensembles cater for all interests and abilities and explore a wide range of genres to suit different musical tastes. All ensembles perform in public and the Swing Band has performed at a variety of venues including most recently the Southwell Minster.
Being a part of the community – and sharing music – is very important to all that attend and are a part of the academy – whether that be in the setting of our beautiful Parish Church, or at a local nursing home or primary feeder school.
As well as the school’s annual Musical, Carol Concert and Academy Awards there are a number of smaller events throughout the year including showcases and instrumental evenings.
There is certainly a lot to engage with if you enjoy your music!
Key information:
GCSE Specification
A Level Specification
Curriculum Progression
Key Stage 3
At Key Stage 3 Lessons are designed around the four foundational pillars of musicianship: performing, composing, listening, and appraising & ensure students gain insight into music across cultures, historical periods, and contemporary contexts. Music is brought to life through hands-on, practical activities that encourage creativity and collaboration. Pupils are introduced to a variety of instruments and forms of notation, including traditional and digital methods, allowing them to engage with music in multiple ways. They’ll develop core skills such as singing, ensemble performance, and basic music theory, while also experimenting with music technology.
Working both independently and in group contexts they have opportunities to compose, improvise, and express themselves—building confidence and a lifelong appreciation for the art of music.
Key Stage 4
Once a student reaches key stage 4 there are a number of different pathways, courses & exam boards that could be pursued. Enrolling individuals and cohorts to the one they are most suited to is always carefully considered to ensure students succeed and have the qualifications that will enable them to progress further.
We now offer 2 courses at Magnus Academy:
GCSE Music (Educas)
Music GCSE offers students the opportunity to deepen their understanding of how music is created, performed, and experienced. Through the three core disciplines of performing, composing and appraising, learners develop as confident musicians, creative thinkers and critical listeners. Students explore a diverse range of musical styles and traditions through the four Areas of Study: Musical Forms and Devices, Music for Ensemble, Film Music, and Popular Music, gaining an appreciation of music from different cultures, eras and contexts.
At the heart of the course is a practical approach to learning. Students build their performance skills through solo and ensemble work, compose original music using both traditional and digital techniques, and develop analytical skills through listening and appraising a wide range of repertoire. The course nurtures creativity, independence and collaboration whilst equipping learners with valuable transferable skills that support further study and future careers within the creative industries and beyond. Music GCSE is both challenging and rewarding, providing students with the opportunity to express themselves artistically whilst developing a lifelong appreciation and understanding of music.
Performing Arts (Technical Award) Educas – Music Pathway
Music GCSE offers students the opportunity to deepen their understanding of how music is created, performed, and experienced. Through the three core disciplines of performing, composing and appraising, learners develop as confident musicians, creative thinkers and critical listeners. Students explore a diverse range of musical styles and traditions through the four Areas of Study: Musical Forms and Devices, Music for Ensemble, Film Music, and Popular Music, gaining an appreciation of music from different cultures, eras and contexts.
At the heart of the course is a practical approach to learning. Students build their performance skills through solo and ensemble work, compose original music using both traditional and digital techniques, and develop analytical skills through listening and appraising a wide range of repertoire. The course nurtures creativity, independence and collaboration whilst equipping learners with valuable transferable skills that support further study and future careers within the creative industries and beyond. Music GCSE is both challenging and rewarding, providing students with the opportunity to express themselves artistically whilst developing a lifelong appreciation and understanding of music.
Regardless of which pathway is considered to be the ‘best fit’ qualification, pupils will have the chance to develop an interest and understanding of how to perform music to a high standard, compose and appraise music. Either course will nurture and develop a lifelong interest and understanding of how music is created through a practical approach.
Key Stage 5
RSL Level 3 Diploma in Creative and Performing Arts (Musical Theatre)
For students following the Musical Theatre pathway, music sits at the heart of the course and plays a vital role in developing well-rounded, versatile performers. Through the study and performance of repertoire from a wide range of musical theatre productions, learners gain a deeper understanding of vocal technique, musical interpretation, ensemble performance and the relationship between music, character and storytelling.
Students develop their musicianship through practical rehearsal and performance experiences, refining their vocal skills, stage presence and confidence as performers. They explore how music is used to communicate emotion, support dramatic narrative and engage audiences, whilst also gaining an appreciation of the historical and contemporary influences that have shaped musical theatre. Opportunities to work collaboratively mirror professional industry practices, enabling learners to develop discipline, resilience and the ability to perform effectively as part of a company.
The course embraces creativity and artistic expression, encouraging students to take ownership of their development whilst building the musical, performance and evaluative skills required for further study and employment within the creative industries. Whether aspiring to train in Musical Theatre, Music Performance, Performing Arts or related disciplines, learners leave the course with a strong foundation in practical musicianship and a deeper appreciation of the transformative power of live performance.
In keeping with the ethos of the Magnus Music Department, the course celebrates the ability of music to connect people, tell stories and inspire change—providing students with meaningful opportunities to grow as confident performers, creative artists and lifelong advocates for the arts.
Curriculum Plan
