Milburn Primary School has been nominated for a Primary Impact Award for developing a vibrant music program within its unique small-school setting. With a dedicated staff of just a Head of School, Teacher, and Higher-Level Teaching Assistant, staff collaborated to create an engaging music curriculum to engage its fifteen mixed-age students with a love for the subject despite initially lacking specialist subject knowledge.
Time for music has now been timetabled and protected. Thirteen of the school's fifteen students participate in a music club, where they have learnt to play the recorder and many of those students acquired their own instruments to continue their practice. The school has a long-term plan which includes ensuring all children have access to high-quality music lessons, can play an instrument by Year 6, experience live music, and participate in a major musical performance.
Collaboration is prioritised and essential to the delivery of music education at Milburn Primary School. All staff work together with their PTI music hub specialist teacher to deliver lessons, so they continue to build their confidence and skills in providing a music education. Students are included too: they have been asked how they feel about music, what part of music interests them, any instruments they would like to play and how the school can use technology to further develop music education.
Opportunities to engage with music beyond the classroom have been prioritised. Students will be performing with 9,000 other children at a live stadium event, and offering tailored music sessions for SEND students. These efforts reflect the school's commitment to fostering a lifelong appreciation for music in every child.