New curriculum guidance promises to refresh music lessons

New non-statutory guidance for music education called the Model Music Curriculum for Key Stages 1 to 3 has been launched by the Department for Education.

The guidance was developed by an independent panel of 15 music education specialists from across the UK and supports the government’s plan to offer all children access to quality music education.

“Music is a hugely important part of most people’s lives. This is especially true during the lockdown period, in which music has been used to inspire, soothe and energise us,” said Nick Gibb, school standards minister,

“After the most difficult of years, it’s time for a musical renaissance across England’s schools and I hope this will inspire a new generation of musicians.”

The DfE has also committed £79m over the next year for Music Education Hubs which support schools to provide high quality music education, £1m for the seven National Youth Music Organisations, and money for supporting other youth music participation projects.

Simon Toyne, president of the Music Teachers’ Association, said: “The Model Music Curriculum is an important step in supporting our teachers to ensure every child is able to access meaningful music lessons in the classroom.”

See more information about the Model Music Curriculum.