Music and the National Curriculum in Primary Schools

Abstract

This inquiry focused on the initial implementation of the National Curriculum for music in primary schools. The findings -from 39 schools in different parts of England -indicate that although some teachers are confident about introducing the new curriculum, many perceive problems implementing the programme as presently formulated. In particular there is a reluctance to teach music history and notation to the extent specified and concern is expressed by class teachers over their ability to cope with all the requirements. Successful implementation wold seem to depend on the presence of supportive head teachers, proactive subject coordinators and appropriate INSET programmes.We were concerned essentially with the English National Curriculum, since that for Wales is rather different. The research involved a study of relevant documentation, including of course the crucial reports of the Music Working Group (DES 1991a(DES , 1991 and the draft and final Orders for music (DES, 1992). From an analysis of these documents we were able to map out those musical activities in which children should B.

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