The Department for Education launch Call for Evidence

• The call for evidence includes specific questions on areas including SEND and inclusivity, music technology and music education hubs
• The deadline to respond is 13 March 2020

The Department for Education (DfE) has published a call for evidence, inviting views from musicians, classroom teachers, young people and parents about what they want to see in the next National Plan for Music Education, which is due for renewal this year.

The National Plan for Music Education was launched in 2011 and was ambitious, aspirational document which set out clear objectives with regards to delivery, access, progression and excellence in the music education sector. It is now due for a refresh, with this call for evidence a long-awaited first step in the process.

In 2018 the ISM released report The Future of Music Education which comprised both a review of the National Plan for Music Education (based on a survey of over 700 music educators) and recommendations for its next iteration.

Nick Gibb, the Minister for School Standards said:

‘All children, regardless of their background, should get the opportunity to play musical instruments, learn to sing and learn how to read and write music in the classroom. I want to continue to level up opportunities so all young people can get the best out of their music education. We can only achieve this if we reflect on the latest advances in music and work together with experts in the music industry, specialist teachers, as well as reflecting on young people’s experiences.’

Deborah Annetts, Chief Executive of the Incorporated Society of Musicians said:

‘We are delighted by the Government’s commitment to music education and refreshing the National Plan. We are particularly encouraged by how much this call for evidence aligns with the some of the key issues that were highlighted in the APPG for Music Education’s State of the Nation report which was published in February 2019.

The Government is right in recognising that the opportunity to study music is not a privilege but a vital part of a broad and balanced curriculum that is compulsory in the National Curriculum up to and including Key Stage 3.

We encourage all music teachers, whether they are primary, secondary or in further education, to respond to the Government’s call for evidence and have your say on the future National Plan for Music Education.’