UK Music CEO says prioritising music education is ‘mission critical’ as schools return

As schools return this week, the CEO and the director of education and skills at UK Music are calling on the government to prioritise music education and deliver the 2019 manifesto commitment for a £109m Arts Premium for secondary schools by September 2021. 

Dr Oliver Morris, director of education and skills, warned that without ‘decisive’ action from the government, Covid could ‘sound the death knell for music in schools’. 

He added that music must remain a part of a young person’s education and be accessible to all, regardless of a student’s socio-economic or geographical situation. 

In his statement, Njoku-Goodwin highlighted the benefits of a ‘good music education’ on other subjects, mental health and wellbeing, but emphasised the need for a ‘strong talent pipeline’ for the UK music industry. 

He added: ‘The COVID-19 pandemic has had a devastating impact on children’s learning and music education has been among the hardest hit. As children return to school, it’s mission critical that music education is put front and centre of the efforts to catch-up.

‘The UK music industry is a key national asset that generates billions for the economy every year and boosts our global reputation. It relies on nurturing emerging talent – so strengthening that crucial talent pipeline is undoubtedly in our national interest.’

Morris said: ‘Music has the power to provide a lot of positivity in these difficult times as well as assist pupils in their reintroduction to school life. It is also often at the cutting edge of innovation.

‘Now is the time for the government to demonstrate its support for teachers, school leaders, music services and hubs and community music organisations.’ 

The statements from UK Music come as schools and teachers are awaiting details on what the government’s £302m ‘recovery premium’ will look like. 

www.ukmusic.org