Beyond the Classroom

Music at Charter Bermondsey

Music here isn't an extra. It's a core part of every student's experienceg student potential through inclusive, high-quality secondary music education. Beyond lessons, students take part in ensemble work, develop performance skills and perform at prestigious venues such as the Barbican.

Music in the curriculum

Time & Structure: Every KS3 student engages in 55 minutes of weekly timetabled music lessons.
Inclusive Approach: Lessons are scaffolded to support all abilities, including SEND and High Prior Attainers.
Core Content: Features spiral learning across keyboard, percussion, and music technology, with KS4 launching by 2027/28.

Girl in school uniform sitting on blue chair playing a black acoustic guitar in classroom.

Extra-Curricular Provision

Instrumental Lessons: Subsidised tuition for piano, guitar, bass, and drumkit, with free lessons for Pupil Premium students.
Ensembles & Groups: Diverse options including Choir, Gospel Choir, Musical Theatre, Rock Band, and open rehearsal spaces.
Weekly Enrichment: Free, structured music sessions every Monday alongside dedicated lunchtime practice spaces for the school band and others.

Two hands pointing at notes on sheet music titled German Song and Lullaby on a piano stand.

Musical Experiences

Live Performances: Regular events ranging from school assemblies and talent shows to external concerts.
Key Partnerships: Collaborative projects with organisations like Gabrielli ROAR and the South East London Music Hub.
Past Venues: Highlights include performances at St George's Cathedral and Central Hall Westminster.

Smiling boy in a classroom playing a djembe drum with peers holding rhythm sticks in the background.

Future developments

New Gear & Tech: Launching new instrument programmess (guitars, drums, djembes) and introducing dedicated music tech by January 2027.
Upcoming Events: Expanding the calendar to include creative arts evenings, school pantomimes, musical trips, and Christmas fairs.

Three students holding drumsticks in a music classroom, two wearing school uniforms and one in a jacket.
Learning the violin has helped me focus and express myself in a different way. I love being part of the orchestra and working together to make something that sounds beautiful.
Year 9 Student