Our mission in the department of music is to encourage curiosity, performing excellence and cultural awareness as we study music of different styles and periods throughout the key stages.

Students with no prior experience in music are welcomed, and are encouraged to #BeMore Involved in their school. All year 7 students can look forward to performing in front of an audience in their very first term as part of the curriculum. For more experienced students there are many opportunities for music making outside the classroom through inclusion in one or more of the very high achieving ensembles that run during the week. Many are led by experts in their field, and opportunities are varied from the more traditional choirs and jazz bands, to the ukulele club or the newly formed Samba group. Our provision transcends barriers to learning and is inclusive of and accessible to all.

We aim to cultivate confident musicians, who can take music and the rigour of practice and apply it to their other studies as well as developing as musical scholars. 

#BeMore Knowledgeable Students have a strong understanding of musical literacy, and have a broad knowledge of differing cultures and styles of music.

#BeMore Resilient Through composing independently students will be given critique and feedback, allowing them to grow as composers of music, but also learn to use criticism in a constructive and positive way.

#BeMore Independent Crucially, the music department fosters outstanding performers and musicians with many going on to study music, music technology or music related courses such as artist management or set design.

We provide students with a broad exposure to music, and run regular trips into London to see West End musicals, Opera, Ballet and concerts. We also have many workshops come into school that give students the opportunity to consider how music can be in their future aspirations. There are 9 ensembles currently running, and each is well attended. These contribute to the very successful concert programme which focuses on the traditional Christmas celebration, and the more contemporary Spring concert which acts as a showcase for the department. 

#BeMore Involved Students who study music as a curriculum subject, as well as those who no longer study on an examined course are entitled to enter the annual music competition. We regularly have over 100 students entering the soloist category which is held in March over 2 consecutive days. In 2022 we had a record 146 students enter.

We offer courses in GCSE Music, A Level Music and A Level Music Technology. Music Technology students are also heavily involved in the life of the school through integration with an AV team, who are responsible for the sound and lighting for any events internal, or external, as well as creating video productions such as a Mastermind series pioneered in 2022.

Students at JHGS appreciate music, and more importantly respect those who perform as part of a celebration assembly or within a classroom setting. In short, Music students are given every opportunity to shine, and regularly do.

GCSE Options Video 2021

An introduction to Music A Level is availablehere

An introduction to Music Technology A Level is available here

External Exams

GCSE: Edexcel 1MU0

A'Level:Edexcel 9MU0

For a full Curriculum Map for all years please click here.  Please note these are dynamic documents and therefore for guidance only.

Music Tech A'Level: Edexcel 9MT0

For a full Curriculum Map for all years please click here.  Please note these are dynamic documents and therefore for guidance only.