At a Glance:
- Client: Jo Sharkey, Head of Music at Finham Park, UK.
- Challenge: Modernizing GCSE music exam preparation, fostering independent learning, and bridging the gap between classroom and homework, especially with limited in-person class time.
- Solution: Implementing Flat for Education's cloud-based platform and a long-term, project-based curriculum.
- Key Results:
- Phenomenal improvement in student composition skills.
- Created a seamless link between music theory and creative practice.
- Enabled remote learning and consistent feedback, even with a limited schedule.
- Developed a "building block" curriculum that fosters long-term musical mastery and independence.
The Client: Jo Sharkey, Head of Music
Jo Sharkey is the head of music at Finham Park in the UK, a pioneering educator committed to preparing her students not only for the national GCSE exams but for a lifelong journey with music. Her challenge was to find a modern, flexible solution that could replace outdated, locally-stored computer programs and engage students in a more consistent and meaningful way.
The Challenge: Beyond the Classroom
The traditional music classroom presented several logistical and pedagogical challenges for Jo:
- Limited Class Time: With only one hour of in-person class time per week, it was difficult to maintain momentum and provide consistent instruction.
- Logistical Hurdles: Old software, like GarageBand, tied students to a single computer, making it a "big logistics battle" to manage and impossible to work on projects from home.
- Disengaged Learning: The gap between music theory and its practical application was a barrier to engagement, making it hard for students to learn without "realizing they're learning."
- Exam Preparation: She needed a solution that would systematically develop the skills required for the GCSE exams, including composition, theory, and performance over several years.
The Solution: A Cloud-Based, Project-Driven Curriculum
Jo found that Flat for Education provided the perfect platform to revolutionize her teaching. Its cloud-based nature and comprehensive features allowed her to overcome her challenges and create a dynamic, modern curriculum.
Breaking Free with a Cloud-Based Platform
Flat for Education’s cloud-based technology eliminated the need for students to be physically present in the classroom to work on their projects. This provided immense flexibility, allowing students to work from home and giving Jo the ability to provide real-time feedback through inline comments, even when she wasn't in the same room. This consistent connection was crucial for a schedule with limited in-person time.
Engaging Students with Long-Term Projects
Jo uses a "building block" approach, creating long-term projects that guide students' studies from Year 7 through to their GCSE exams. For example, a "Haunted House" project for Year 8 students helps them learn music theory, notation, and composition without realizing it. This project-based learning model keeps students engaged and shows them how theoretical concepts translate to concrete sounds.
The Haunted House Project: A Case Study in Creativity
The "Haunted House" project is a perfect example of Jo's approach. It has six modules, each with its own Google Slides presentation containing explanatory videos and a direct link to the corresponding Flat for Education assignment. This allows students to:
- Learn and practice concepts like notes, scales, and chords.
- Compose their own film music.
- Get instant visual and auditory feedback.
The project is so effective that Jo has seen students not only complete their assignments but also continue working on them for hours, far beyond the initial requirements.
Boosting GCSE Success
Jo’s innovative use of Flat for Education's wide range of tools, including music theory worksheets, composition assignments, and the Resource Library, has been key to this change. By consistently using the platform from Year 7, her students develop independence and a deep understanding of music theory. The platform's support for instant feedback, group work, and personalized learning ensures each student gets attention tailored to their needs.
The verdict on the long-term impact is already in. Speaking about her first cohort of students who have used the platform for years, Jo says:
"The difference in their compositions is phenomenal, it really is."
Conclusion: A New Standard for Music Exam Preparation
Jo Sharkey's story demonstrates that Flat for Education is a vital tool for preparing students for high-stakes exams like the GCSE. By moving away from old-school teaching methods and embracing a modern, project-based, and cloud-based approach, she has not only streamlined her curriculum but has also fostered a generation of students who are confident, creative, and deeply connected to their music.
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Musically Yours,
Flat for Education
We are grateful to Jo for giving us a glimpse into the future of music education. Her success with the GCSE curriculum is an inspiration to us all. Book a demo today to see how Flat for Education can transform your students' GCSE exam prep.