Image of Year 6 - Music - Exploring Texture
30 Sep

Year 6 - Music - Exploring Texture

In Year 6 music, our pupils have been riding the soundwaves as they explore how texture creates depth and shape in music! Working in groups, the children took on the role of conductor, layering different body percussion, vocal sounds, and tuned instruments to build up 'wave' improvisations. They learned how adding and taking away different sounds changes the thickness of the musical texture—just like waves rolling in and out on the beach. To finish, the children recorded their original group ideas using creative graphic scores to capture every unique layer.

Image of Year 6 - Music - Exploring Texture
30 Sep

Year 6 - Music - Exploring Texture

In Year 6 music, our pupils have been riding the soundwaves as they explore how texture creates depth and shape in music! Working in groups, the children took on the role of conductor, layering different body percussion, vocal sounds, and tuned instruments to build up 'wave' improvisations. They learned how adding and taking away different sounds changes the thickness of the musical texture—just like waves rolling in and out on the beach. To finish, the children recorded their original group ideas using creative graphic scores to capture every unique layer.

Image of Reception- Music- Expressing Ourselves
8 Jul

Reception- Music- Expressing Ourselves

In Reception this week the children have been putting their learning of music into practice. Using the different instruments to make a beat and then develop it into a song that they know. We then took it to the next level and used the role play outfits to put on a music show. Singing our favourite songs and making up lots of different actions. We had so much fun!

Image of Year 6: Chip Party
16 Jun

Year 6: Chip Party

In preparation for the leavers service, year 6 attended a "chip party" where they learnt songs, that they will be performing, and of course had chips too!

Image of Nursery And Pre-School - Music -Loud And Quiet
20 May

Nursery And Pre-School - Music -Loud And Quiet

This week, our Nursery and Pre-School children explored the concepts of "loud" and "quiet" during their music lesson. The session began in a circle, where the children were introduced to visual prompts representing different volumes. They practiced regulating their voices, matching their vocal output to the picture shown. Next, each child selected a musical instrument. Using the same visual cues, they experimented with how to physically play their instruments to create both loud and quiet sounds. To conclude the lesson, the children took turns demonstrating their new skills to the class. Each child proudly performed a solo, choosing their own volume level to showcase. It was a wonderful session that built both musical confidence and control.

Image of Nursery And Pre-School - Music - Whats In The Bag
29 Apr

Nursery And Pre-School - Music - Whats In The Bag

Taking advantage of the beautiful sunshine, the children in Nursery and Preschool gathered outside this week to enjoy a lovely session of refreshments and music. This outdoor setting provided a wonderful, relaxed atmosphere for the children to engage in a group singing activity using our "What’s in the Bag?" mystery bag. The children practiced their patience and turn-taking skills as they waited to see what was hidden inside the bag. Each child had the opportunity to choose a toy, which acted as a visual prompt to identify a specific nursery rhyme. For example, finding a star prompted a rendition of "Twinkle Twinkle," while a bus led to "The Wheels on the Bus." This activity was a fantastic way for the children to build their confidence in singing as part of a group and to practice their memory skills as they recalled the lyrics and associated actions. It was a joy to see everyone happily singing together in the fresh air, enjoying the sunshine and the company of their friends.

Image of Year 5 Dance: West End In Schools Workshop
11 Mar

Year 5 Dance: West End In Schools Workshop

Our Year 5 pupils had an incredible time bringing the story of Chinese New Year to life this week! We were thrilled to welcome West End in Schools for an energetic dance workshop. The children didn't just learn the choreography; they fully embraced their roles, leaping and grooving as they transformed into the different animals from the traditional tale. From mastering tricky dance steps to exploring cultural history through movement, the energy in the hall was electric! A huge thank you to West End in Schools for such an inspiring and fun-filled session.

Image of Year 6: Lunar New Year Workshop
11 Mar

Year 6: Lunar New Year Workshop

This week year 6 celebrated the Lunar New Year with a dance workshop. The class really enjoyed being active and getting to work collaboratively together in a different way.

Image of Year 2: Lunar New Year dance workshop
11 Mar

Year 2: Lunar New Year dance workshop

Dancing Through the Great Race! Our hall was alive with energy as our pupils took part in a vibrant Lunar New Year Dance Workshop! To celebrate the Year of the Horse, the children didn't just learn about the Legend of the Great Race... They lived it! Through movement and choreography, they told the story of how the twelve animals of the Zodiac crossed the finish line.

Image of Year 3 - P.E - Dance Workshop
10 Mar

Year 3 - P.E - Dance Workshop

Our Year 3 students had an incredible time today as they swapped their desks for the spotlight! We were thrilled to welcome West End in Schools for a high-energy, creative workshop all about China.

Image of Year 4 - The Lunar New Year
9 Mar

Year 4 - The Lunar New Year

Year 4 really enjoyed their dance workshop this week. We got to explore the Lunar New Year in a creative way and learn moves to tell a story through dance. Year 4 were very good at remembering the moves for each different animal and were even better when given the choice to move in the way of their chosen animal. The final performance was fantastic to watch - well done, Year 4!

Image of Year 1 Lunar New Year Workshop
9 Mar

Year 1 Lunar New Year Workshop

Celebrating the Lunar New Year with Year 1! Today, our Year 1 hall was filled with energy and excitement as we hosted an incredible Lunar Workshop with West End in Schools! The children took part in an expressive dance session to bring the story of The Great Race to life. We practiced following instructions to mimic the movements of the different Zodiac animals—from the clever Rat to the powerful Dragon! It was a brilliant, interactive way to learn about the traditions of the Lunar New Year through movement and music. Our little performers showed fantastic focus and creativity. Well done, Year 1! #DarwenStJames #Year1 #LunarNewYear #TheGreatRace #WestEndInSchools #ExpressiveDance #CulturalLearning #NurturingAmbition