Wider Opportunities—Whole Class Instrumental Tuition

"The best thing we have done in terms of music provision."
Paul Anderson, Headteacher at Northway Primary School

"Wider Opps is life-changing stuff, positive and transformational."
Roy Morgan, Headteacher at Northcote Primary School

What is Wider Opportunities?

An entire Year 4 class are given the chance to learn a musical instrument for one year alongside their class teacher and supported by two of our specialist teachers (one teacher for recorder projects). We provide class sets of instruments and all appropriate resources.

"Giving so many children the opportunity to learn their way round an orchestral instrument has had benefits which go beyond traditional musical tuition."
Jeremy Barnes, Headteacher at All Saints Primary School

We have strings, brass, woodwind, guitar, recorder and ICT projects available.

How will this work in my school?

For one hour per week, two of our specialist teachers will deliver whole-class practical music-making activities that will meet many of the requirements of the National Curriculum.

Wider Opportunities lessons are practical, often loud, with both instrumental playing, singing and general musicianship skills at the heart of every session.

We incorporate interactive resources and music software into many of our sessions.

An instrument for every child, and each staff member, involved in the project is provided on free loan to the school.

Your class teacher and any other support teachers are integral to the success of Wider Opportunities projects, and therefore this is excellent CPD for your school.

How will my school benefit from Wider Opportunities?

The children gain a wealth of skills – musical and non-musical − including improved coordination, improved confidence, numeracy and literacy skills. They also gain the valuable experience of being involved in group music making – something a child rarely forgets.

"The quality of input from the Music Support Service is excellent."
Roy Morgan, Headteacher at Northcote Primary School

The class teacher gains valuable professional development in an area in which it is traditionally difficult for non-specialists to develop. The class teacher is fully involved and is encouraged to continue learning with the pupils between sessions.

"We have large groups of children engaged in music; music has a far higher profile in our school."
Paul Anderson, Headteacher at Northway Primary School

The school gains performance opportunities, and can demonstrate their commitment to inclusion through learning music.

"We noticed the tremendous progress the pupils made on their violins, the entire range of learners excelled. It is lovely to see SEN children flourishing through learning an instrument."
Paul Anderson, Headteacher at Northway Primary School

"Extending opportunities, raising aspiration, creating positive engagement in musical activities…"
Roy Morgan, Headteacher at Northcote Primary School

Back to music in schools>>