Curriculum

Primary School

The Primary degree course lasts two or three years and the title of the qualification one attains is called the DUMI (Diplôme d'Université de Musicien Intervenant). The curriculum is organised into the following eight modules:

1     Vocal training

2     Instrumental training

3     Other ways of expression

4     Knowledge in sound

5     Listening, analysing, history

6     Pedagogy, Psychology

7     Knowledge in the environment

8     Devising a project and translating it into action.

 

Practice at school takes place alternately with the courses and according to the different modules.

Initial Training

First year:

·      4 days observation as an active teacher.

·      2 weeks observation at a kindergarten.

·      About 20 contributions per week during one academic year.

·      1 week observation at a primary school.

Second year:

·      1 week for sketching projects for the year (work supported by lectures). About 20 contributions per week during one academic year.

In-service Training

A practicum of 500 hours takes place during the three academic years in the institution where the candidate usually works.

Secondary School

There are two ways of becoming a secondary school teacher: CAPES and Agrégation. Training for the CAPES (Certificat d'Aptitude de l'Enseignement Secondaire[3]) lasts for 2 years. The first year consists of pre-studies as well as a first contact with classes and individual teaching situations. The Agrégation is accessible to all who hold a «Maîtrise», a teaching certificate, as well as for teachers who have no permanent appointment. As with CAPES, the training lasts for 2 years.

CAPES and/or Agrégation are necessary qualifications to successfully complete training at an IUFM. Acquiring an IUFM diploma is a prerequisite for getting permanent employment as a music teacher. In the course of a year, the trainee teaches 4 to 6 hours at a secondary school (Collège[4]) and at the same time attends lectures at the IUFM on two days of the week.

IUFM institutes are also responsible for further education und training of teachers. The courses offered support members of the teaching staff in developing new approaches and extending their professional knowledge to fulfil modern requirements in education. Further education and training programmes are organised by the individual academies.