The Music department is an exciting, creative centre within the school. It is run by Jackie Tansley as part of the Creative Arts Faculty.
In years 7-9, the schemes of work focus on building composition, performance and listening skills using a range of resources and musical genres. This prepares the students for learning at KS4. However, we advise that students who wish to take music in year 10 & 11, and in the Sixth Form, should be having regular instrumental or singing lessons in order to access higher grades.
In years 10 and 11, the department currently delivers a BTEC Level 2 in Music qualification. However, as the department expands, we would like to teach both BTEC and GCSE. The Head of Department is experienced in teaching both qualifications.
In partnership with Oxfordshire County Council music service and private tutors, we are pleased to offer music instrument lessons on a number of instruments. If you would like your child to learn an instrument, the contact information for each instrument is below. If the instrument isn’t listed, please contact Jackie Tansley at jackie.tansley@thebicesterschool.org.uk:
| Instrument | Provider |
| Guitar, drums | Jamie Felton: jamiefelton11@gmail.com |
| Flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet | Kate Freeman: katefreeman182@gmail.com |
| Piano/keyboard | James Miller: MJmusicservicesOx@gmail.com |
| Violin, viola, cello | Elizabeth Paterson: Elizabeth.CallejoPaterson@Oxfordshire.gov.uk |
Extra-curricular
| Activity | Provider |
| Band club | Jamie Felton |
| Flexbo ensemble | Jeremy Salter and Kate Freeman |
| Vocal group | Tara Yarker and Grace Healy |
The Creative Arts Faculty have worked closely together recently in order to produce whole school performances of School of Rock and Mary Poppins.
Oxfordshire County Music Service offers cello lessons at The Bicester School. We are also hoping to start guitar, flute, clarinet, saxophone and brass lessons, subject to enough interest.
If your child would like to learn another instrument, you can still sign up to join our waiting list – we may be able to start lessons if there is enough interest.
To sign up, or for more information including prices (subject to a small increase in September),
please visit our website – www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/musicinterest
6 reasons for your child to use the Oxfordshire county music service
