In Key Stages 1 and 2, pupils are taught the basic skills of listening, composing and performing using the Durham Music Service scheme, Charanga.

All pupils in Key Stage 1 and 2 are given the opportunity to learn the ukulele throughout the year and pupils are given performance opportunities at Christmas, assemblies and in the summer.

In Key Stage 3 pupils are taught further skills in listening and appraising, composing and performing.

Pupils are taught basic notation and theory, more complex chords, melodies and rhythms on the ukulele and Djembe drumming. Pupils are taught about famous composers and they undertake a project using research methods.

By the end of Key Stage 3, all pupils should:

Be able to compose using basic rhythm notation

Talk about (or Communicate) the basic features of a stave

To play at least 3 chords on the ukulele

To repeat and compose a rhythm on a percussion instrument

To be able to talk about a piece of music and the composer

To be able to perform in front of an outside audience

To talk about a piece of music they have heard

Croft works closely with Durham Music Service and the music department have good links with the other Special School in Durham. This gives pupils the opportunity to challenge themselves further and become involved in wider community based projects. This year pupils are performing with the Orchestra of the age of Enlightenment alongside pupils from Durham Trinity School and Villa Real school. Some pupils have been given the opportunity to take part in a 10 week DJ project with The Sage Gateshead. Pupils take part every year in the music showcase at Durham Trinity and have performed at The Sage Gateshead.

All pupils are given the opportunity to take part in weekly signing choir sessions which uses British Sign Language to interpret modern songs.