Curriculum Statement
The Music Department at Highbury Grove is dedicated to nurturing a lifelong appreciation and passion for music in every student. Our mission is to create an inclusive, dynamic, and inspiring environment where students of all abilities can explore, create, and perform music.
We believe that music education is integral to the holistic development of young people, fostering not only their artistic talents but also their cognitive, emotional, and social growth. Through a diverse curriculum that spans various musical genres, cultures, and historical periods, we aim to cultivate students’ creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration skills.
Our department is committed to providing high-quality instruction, both in the classroom and through extracurricular opportunities, including ensembles, performances, and music technology. We strive to support each student’s individual musical journey, whether they are pursuing music as a career or as a personal passion.
In addition, we seek to engage with the broader school community and beyond, promoting the value of music education through performances, community outreach, and partnerships with local arts organisations.
Ultimately, our goal is to empower students to become confident, skilled, and expressive musicians, ready to contribute to the rich cultural fabric of our society.
Who’s Who?
Curriculum Leader:
- Mr S. Robb
Music Teachers:
- Ms S. Bentley (Vice Principal)
- Ms C. McGugan (Second in Charge))
Administrator & Technician:
- Mr B. Arrowsmith
Instrumental Teachers:
- Mr R. Fuentes Contreras – Violin/Viola
- Mr J. Smirnov – Violin/Viola
- Ms M. Mamara – Violin/Viola
- Mr M. Dunlop – Double Bass
- Dr O. Gledhill – Cello
- Ms E. Blamires – Flute
- Mr S. Kelly – Flute
- Mr B. Pattinson – Flute
- Ms B. Lee – Oboe/Bassoon
- Ms M. Gomes – Clarinet/Saxophone
- Mr W. King – Trombone/Tuba/French Horn
- Mr O. Arnold – Trumpet
- Ms S. Aivazidi – Piano
- Ms I. Bako – Piano
- Mr G. Cresseri – Guitar/Bass Guitar
- Mr F. Matani – Guitar/Bass Guitar
- Mr A. Turco – Drums/Percussion
- Ms G. Nyandoro – Voice
KS4 and KS5 Courses Offered
GCSE Music
A Level Music
Online Resources
Home Learning Resources:
- MiSST online – online instrument learning videos from the Music in Secondary Schools Trust
- Beat Goes On – daily online body percussion workshops
- Coremi – lists of online concerts and streamed performances to enjoy from home
Resources to support GCSE study: