New Guidance

Guidance has been published to clarify the implications of the National Plan for Music Education for children and young people, as well as how they can engage with music both in and outside of school.

The key aspects of music education in schools include:

• Providing a minimum of one hour of classroom music teaching per week for students in key stage 1 to 3 (years 1 to 9).
• Granting access to lessons covering a variety of instruments and singing.
• Offering opportunities to join school choirs, vocal groups, ensembles, bands, orchestras, or rock bands.
• Organizing events such as concerts, competitions, or shows to expose students to different genres of music.
• Arranging at least one annual visit to live performances.
• Enabling students to pursue music qualifications in secondary school, such as GCSEs, A levels, vocational technical qualifications (VTQs), or graded music exams.

Music Hubs

Music Hubs play a crucial role in facilitating young people's involvement in music. They function as networks consisting of schools, education charities, organizations, music services, and community groups. Music Hubs collaborate with teachers in classrooms to deliver quality music education and provide opportunities for students to explore music beyond the school environment. They support students through music exams and encourage activities like whole-class instrumental lessons, singing lessons, choirs, and more.

To ensure young people have access to musical instruments, £25 million in funding will be allocated to Music Hubs from September 2024. This funding will be utilized to provide a wide range of instruments, including both traditional and adapted instruments. Adapted instruments are specifically designed to enable children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) to participate in music.

You can find information about your local music hub at Music Education Hubs | Arts Council England.

National Youth Music Organisations help to develop talented young musicians across a range of musical genres. They also provide support to Music Hubs and many further and higher education settings.

Financial Support

Financial support is available for young people seeking access to music education. Various organizations can assist with costs, fees, and access to music-related activities. Detailed information about these organisations can be found in the provided guidance. Local Music Hubs may also offer financial support for specific activities.