Music at the Heart of St Peter’s, Winchester

Music at the heart of St Peter’s School

At St Peter’s School we aim to engage and inspire children to develop a love of music. Music has a high profile throughout the school, being demonstrated not just by the high quality of music making in the classroom but also in the range of musical events and opportunities that children engage with throughout the school year.

We aim to provide a curriculum that is practical and allows all children to experience the joys of making music, and so increase their self-confidence, creativity and sense of achievement.

We offer extensive extra-curricular activities where children can deepen and extend their learning and gain valuable musical experiences beyond those in the classroom. There is a wide range of instruments on offer, for our children to learn. These may include violin, cello, guitar, drums and piano. Each week over 140 instrument lessons take place. Many of our children go on to be part of our school band, along with continuing their instruments at secondary school.

‘I have been learning piano at St Peter’s since I was 7 years old. I enjoy the piano as it allows me to be creative and I now have my grade 2. I enjoy playing a piece called ‘Arabesque’. I play the flute in the school band. St Peter’s School encourages everyone to get involved with music.’ Anna (Year 6)

The children not only have a rich curriculum with opportunities to learn a range of instruments, but they also have many opportunities to perform. The school choir performs at Winchester University’s graduation in the cathedral each year. Our Spring Concert, where children play solo or in ensembles, is a key fixture in our annual diary.

Meanwhile, a highlight each year is our annual production. This year two main character casts from our older classes and all our Key Stage 2 children performed the musical ‘Matilda’. Over 200 pupils danced, sang and acted in the four shows held in St Stephen’s Church, which is attached to the school. Our wonderful PTA made a donation allowing us to have a professional sound system and scenery, while our amazing Mrs Postlethwaite rehearsed the children, attaining an amazing end result.  The sense of collaboration and seeing the children’s self-esteem grow makes this something that is valued by our school community. We just need now to decide what the production is for next year!

‘This summer we all took part in ‘Matilda’. It was so exciting and we all had a chance to perform. My favourite bit were the dances and they were fun to do and to watch. Some people are so talented.’ Emily (Year 6)

In our recent Ofsted music was noted music being a highlight of what we offer our pupils here at St Peter’s.

‘The teaching of music is a particular strength of the school, and a love of music is fostered across all years.’ Ofsted 2023

If you would like to see and hear more phone us on 01962 852820 for a visit.