The Heart of England Music Hub is launching an exciting new programme designed to support schools in delivering inclusive and accessible music education using music technology. We are seeking schools to participate in this innovative initiative, which combines professional development for staff with hands-on, practical music sessions for pupils.
Programme focus
To create a network of trained practitioners with the skills and confidence to deliver accessible music-making experiences, particularly for pupils with SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) or attending alternative provision settings.
Aims:
- Establish a network of confident, skilled practitioners across the Hub.
- Develop a digital resource hub with lesson plans, schemes of work, case studies, and videos.
- Raise awareness of the Hub's accessible instrument offer.
- Support accreditation pathways such as Trinity Music Awards and AQA Unit Award Scheme for young people with additional needs.
Benefits for participating schools and settings:
- Access to cutting-edge music technology, including iPads, Ableton Move, and adaptive tools such as Sound beam,Cosmo Switch and CMPSR.
- Participation in practical projects co-designed with Hub music tutors.
- Training and mentoring for staff in inclusive music-making techniques.
- Opportunities to accredit pupil learning through nationally recognised pathways.
- Contribution to a growing community of practice with regular reflection and networking sessions.
Programme structure
Phase 1 (Summer 2026)
Training, resource launch, and induction for participating practitioners.
Phase 2 (Autumn 2026 – Summer 2027)
Implementation of pilot projects in schools with flexible delivery models:
- Hub-led delivery – Hub tutor leads the sessions.
- Co-delivery – School staff co-design and co-deliver alongside Hub tutor.
- Setting-led delivery – School practitioner leads sessions with guidance.
Phase 3 (Spring/Summer 2027)
Resource development and dissemination, including video tutorials, case studies, and lesson plans for wider use.
Expectations of participating schools
For the programme to be managed across the region schools will need to commit to the following requirements.
Sessions will be delivered on Wednesdays between 1-3pm during term time.
Sessions will be delivered weekly for 10 weeks each term.
Staff will be required to attend CPD and reflection sessions as per the programme timetable.
Timetable for weekly sessions Wednesdays 1-3pm
Set up time: 10 minutes to prepare space
Session 1: 40 minutes max 6 pupils per group
Session 2: 40 minutes max 6 pupils per group
Session 3: Protected reflection / planning session for deliverers
Who will be involved in supporting the delivery of each programme?
Music tutor: Minimum 1 x music tutor to lead/ co-deliver the programme
School professional : Minimum 1 x music teacher to co-deliver the programme
How can my school or setting get involved?
The hub will be recruiting schools and settings across the Heart of England region to take part in this pioneering programme during Spring 2026.
Spaces are limited, and priority will be given to schools with pupils who have SEND or SEMH needs.
For further information or to express interest, please contact email claire.batty@solihull.gov.uk
