Raynham Primary School, Edmonton - Notate Case Study

Thanks to Sheryl Henry, Year 5 and 6 Teacher

Why did you choose Notate ?

I found the software by searching on the Internet and purchased it on a 30-day trial basis. It seemed to offer more than similar products on the market.

Who is using Notate?

I am currently using Notate with my Year 5 and 6 children.

What curriculum areas and /or objectives does Notate support in your school/organisation?

We used Notate during the Exploring Pulse and Rhythm unit and in the Exploring Arrangements unit where the children composed their own short pieces of original music. Notate fits in extremely well with our curriculum and school as it allows the children to be more involved with their work, which often helps them to learn better.

In your opinion, does Notate support the development of learners’ higher order skills such as thinking and problem solving skills?

Yes, I believe Notate enables the children to gain certain skills such as problem solving as it allows them to make their own choices. Giving the children this opportunity helps them to progress and they are enjoying the activities as they learn.

What do pupils think about Notate?

All the children loved using Notate. They had lots of fun exploring the software and discovering all the different instruments and sounds. They like composing their own pieces of work and listening to them back, they liked the way that everyone’s pieces of work were different and that theirs were unique.

How has Notate supported your effective teaching?

I have used Notate on an interactive whiteboard, which has been a great way to encourage group discussion and whole class participation. The children like to get involved as much as possible and Notate enables them to do this.

How would you say Notate enhances learners’ experience?

It encourages the children to work together. It gives them access to and makes them aware of musical instruments that they might otherwise not get the opportunity to use. The ability to customise the software to tailor it to individuals or whole classes makes it easy for the children to use and accessible to all.