25.06.2022: UK Music Chief Executive Jamie Njoku-Goodwin has welcomed the Government’s new blueprint for music education, which includes a £25 million fund for schools to buy new instruments.
Under the Government’s new National Plan for Music Education (NPME) unveiled on Saturday, every school is to provide at least one hour a week of curriculum music for key stages 1-3 (5 to 14-year-olds).
Schools will be able purchase tens of thousands of musical instruments and equipment, including adapted instruments for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), thanks to new capital funding of £25 million.
The announcement from the Department for Education builds on a pledge in the School’s White Paper to provide all children with an enriching school curriculum, helping to level up their opportunities as well as their educational outcomes.
Schools will be expected to offer at least one hour of music curriculum a week as part of the new NPME, which sets out best practice for early years, schools, and the music sector. £79 million will also be made available every year until 2025 for the Music Hubs programme across schools in every part of the country which deliver high quality music education.
UK Music Chief Executive Jamie Njoku-Goodwin said:
“Music can transform lives. But while creative potential is everywhere, opportunity is not. So, it’s vital music education is available to everyone, regardless of their background, and does not become the preserve of a privileged few.
“The new National Plan for Music Education, with its commitment of financial investment, is therefore very welcome. It sets out the minimum expectations for music education in schools and spells out how schools, community groups and the music industry can join forces to give young people the best musical education possible.
“Music should be at the heart of education. Not only does it enrich children’s lives, it also improves our health and wellbeing, makes a huge social and economic contribution, and boosts our global reputation.
“This weekend, the eyes of the world are on Glastonbury as a host of world-leading British stars take to the stage. We shouldn’t forget that many of their journeys began in the classroom, where dedicated music teachers inspired and nurtured the future generations of British talent.
“Learning to sing or play an instrument brings huge benefits to children, whatever they go on to do in later life. However, we need continued investment in music education to help unlock the boundless creative potential of young people across the country.
“Every child deserves access to a high-quality musical education. Today’s National Plan is an important step towards securing that.”
The full Government announcement can be read here.
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