Next steps

Key themes and recommendations

This report is the result of a major collaboration between individuals and organisations deeply involved in music education across the UK. The conclusions drawn from this research have led those involved to look at the key messages that have emerged and to offer the following suggestions:

Next steps for the music education sector

• Articulate a more coherent message about progression routes in musical learning, and the possible routes available for young people at all stages – this requires much greater collaboration and coordination among schools, private teachers, Music Services, community music and national organisations.
• Implement more rigorous monitoring processes so that learners’ development and progress can be more effectively mapped, helping identify the most effective strategic support and practical interventions.
• Champion the role of music and music specialists so head teachers and governors truly understand the positive impact they can make.

Next steps for policy makers and funding

• Champion the role of creative learning in schools as part of the inspection framework – this would strengthen head teachers’ perceptions of music as an important contributor to school culture, outcomes and achievements for young people and attainment results.
• More effectively target and align funding, to support disadvantaged learners from social grades C1, D and E, address regional imbalances, and ensure a more equitable supply of diverse instruments UK-wide.
• Sustain and further enhance funding to Music Education Hubs in England to ensure they are able to meet the high ambitions set out for them.
• Increase exposure to music at initial teacher training level to ensure new entrants to the profession are adequately skilled to fulfill their statutory obligations, particularly at primary level.

Next steps for schools and teachers

• Continue to provide a rich mix and depth of musical styles, repertoire and experiences in the classroom that engage young people and meet their own expectations.
• Monitor learners’ progress more effectively to better identify both their individual needs and the resources and support required to meet them.
• Encourage greater collaboration between teachers working across the private and public sectors – this would encourage better sharing of good practice and go towards ending the isolation teachers can feel.
• Undertake regular and targeted continuing professional development via existing support structures – this requires greater collaboration between competing commercial and non-profit stakeholders.
• Advocate the benefits of music education with parents and carers to ensure better understanding and garner more support.

A final word

Next: Appendix