James Manwaring, president of the National Music Teachers Association, urged choir provision in all schools in England. He’s quick to point out, though, that it doesn’t require much—just a space, a leader, and some students willing to make music. The federation unites public and private, collegiate and precollegiate, music educators from its member states. Specifically, it underscores the vital part that music education has in this ongoing endeavor.
Manwaring is pretty excited about the recent changes to the school curriculum in England. He’s convinced that these updates will have a profound impact on music education. The government has announced efforts to make it easier for more schools to provide arts subjects like music, aiming to ensure these opportunities are “no longer the preserve of a privileged few,” according to a spokesperson from the Department for Education.
The effort to expand access to music education will need more funding and resources. Manwaring underscores the need to retain highly qualified music educators. This need is especially urgent now, with recruitment levels coming in 35% below the government’s target. He raised his concern about a new Teacher Tapp poll. We were able to demonstrate at least one thing – that over half (57%) of state secondary school art teachers reported that their students never sang together in assembly.
It’s a shame to imagine some state schools aren’t taking advantage of that,” Manwaring said. He’s an advocate for year-round singing in general. It shouldn’t be something that’s only saved for holidays such as Christmas – it should be foundational to our entire school culture!
At The East Manchester Academy, Rob Hatton has led a push to create a students’ gospel choir. This initiative was one of Manwaring’s dreams, and it underscores the incredible difference that music can make in a young person’s life. Mercy, a Year 11 student at the academy, talked about her passion for singing.
“I feel like we should all release our voices to the world. Whether you’re good or not, just sing.” – Mercy
Jackie Bowen, Principal at The East Manchester Academy, understands the pressures secondary school students face today. Most of them express that they are “embarrassed” or that singing is no longer “cool.” Facing this stigma, though, she is laser-focused on the intrinsic value that music provides and the way it develops students psychologically and socially.
Bowen pointed out the connection between music study and student success in all areas of life. She reminded us how priceless music is. Furthermore, she focused on its benefits for the physical, social-emotional, and mental health of students, as well as their academic success. The academy has taken multiple steps to broaden access to music, focusing on inclusive practices that dismantle barriers to music engagement.
The recent government investment will see millions sent to help provide schools with the instruments and other resources they need. This financial support should be used to develop an inclusive culture and environment around music to ensure students of all backgrounds can prosper in our schools.
