Practical Tips for Integrating Music in Your School (including free resources for SLT)

Even at this time and in the midst of a  busy exam season, if you’re involved in School Leadership,  you  will  no doubt be planning ahead to next year and might be wondering how to bring the benefits of Sussex Music School to your school within the context of budgetary restraints. Here are some recommendations to have in mind for the longer term:  

• Start with a music audit: Assess your current music provision and identify gaps or opportunities. Send all teaching staff primary music skills and confidence questionnaire linked below. 

Download an SMS Primary Music Skills & Confidence Questionnaire 

• When you become an SMS Partner school you will have access to not only the very highest standard of Music teaching but regular conversations about Music provision and how to weave it through the school.  

• Engage with Sussex Music School early: It’s easy to book a discovery call with the CEO & Founder, Alex Dalton.  You can book an online meeting in advance with her here: Book time with Alex Dalton: Meet to discuss your school's needs 

• Invest in teacher training: Encourage your staff to attend CPD sessions to build confidence and skills.  

• Promote inclusivity: Ensure that all pupils, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds, and with SEND requirements, have full access to music opportunities, including instrumental lessons. Check that any visiting teachers have the teaching skills you would expect from school staff. At SMS, our visiting teachers receive regular monitoring and training, ensuring they can make use of modern adaptive teaching. Many of them have primary and secondary teaching qualifications themselves. 

• Create performance opportunities: Regular concerts and showcases motivate students and build community. Our teachers know how to get the best out of students and encourage them to play and sing in bands, assemblies, and ensembles.  

• Encourage parental involvement: At SMS, we give direct access to teachers for any queries, we keep them well informed and involved in their children’s musical journey.  We even supply an annual parents evening and music progress report.  

By following these steps, schools can create a thriving musical environment that benefits everyone.