Building a Successful Music Department

By the end of the course, participants will be able to:

• Articulate a clear, compelling vision for music that promotes its value within the whole-school context.
• Design and sequence an inclusive music curriculum that supports progression and inspires learners across all Key Stages.
• Create and implement assessment practices that are consistent, sustainable, and provide meaningful feedback to support learning.
• Confidently prepare for Ofsted inspections by communicating their department’s intent, implementation, and impact.
• Plan and embed a rich extra-curricular music programme that enhances classroom learning and strengthens the school community.

Session 1 – The place of music in schools (access to the recording of this session is available for new bookings)

• This session will support subject leaders in promoting the value of the music within their wider school context.   You will be able to explore how schools are responding to the latest Ofsted framework and consider how music can be effectively integrated into whole-school curriculum planning.  You’ll learn how to carry out a clear and practical analysis of your department’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats, using this to shape a compelling and achievable vision for music in your school.

Session 2 – Curriculum planning and design

• This session will explore what makes an effective and well-balanced music curriculum. You will identify the core principles that should underpin your planning, helping you design a curriculum that is effectively sequenced and inclusive.  You’ll learn how to map out the musical knowledge and skills that students will develop over time, with a strong focus on progression across the Key Stages. The aim is to ensure that your curriculum not only meets requirements but inspires and engages learners at every stage.

Session 3 – Assessment

• This session explores a range of practical strategies for designing an assessment system at Key Stage 3 that supports both teaching and learning. Learn how to create approaches that are consistent, clear, and aligned with your curriculum, while remaining realistic and sustainable for your department.  Discover how assessment can provide valuable, timely feedback to students and help track progress effectively.

Session 4 – Navigating Ofsted

• This session will help you prepare for an Ofsted inspection by exploring how to clearly articulate your department’s intent, implementation, and impact in line with Ofsted expectations. You’ll examine the types of questions and evidence that may arise during an observation and how to present a clear, coherent narrative about your curriculum and wider provision.  Practical guidance will be provided on aligning your music provision with whole-school priorities, identifying strengths and areas for development, and communicating your vision effectively to inspectors and senior leaders.

Session 5 – Music beyond the classroom

• This session explores how to plan and sustain a vibrant programme of extra-curricular music that engages students, supports progression, and strengthens the profile of music across the school.  You’ll gain practical ideas for developing ensembles, choirs, concerts, productions, and other performance opportunities, and learn how these activities can complement and enhance your curriculum offer. The session also looks at how to build strong partnerships with your local Music Hub, work collaboratively with peripatetic teachers, and promote access to instrumental and vocal lessons.  In addition, we’ll explore strategies for raising funds, securing resources, and making the case for music as a key part of school life.

• The sessions will consist of whole and small group work as well as discussion
• Any materials/resources used in the sessions will be made available to participants

• Secondary music teachers
• Heads of Department
• Early Career Teachers
• Heads of Faculty responsible for music (non specialist)
• Non specialist music teachers