The National Plan for Music Education (NPME) is a Govt. backed framework for music educators that aims to provide a coherent pathway of musical opportunities for all pupils in England, both within school and beyond. Schools are obviously key partners in this work and pupils should be given opportunities to compose, improvise, play instruments, listen to music and take part in performances within school.

In addition, pupils should be given opportunities to take part in musical activities outside the classroom and the NPME has core and extension roles to help achieve this. As part of the Greater Manchester Music Hub, Stockport Music Service works with our schools to achieve these core roles;

NPME core roles

1. Ensure that every child aged 5 to 18 has the opportunity to learn a musical instrument (other than voice) through whole-class ensemble teaching programmes.

2. Provide opportunities to play in ensembles and to perform from an early stage.

3. Ensure that clear progression routes are available and affordable to all young people.

4. Develop a singing strategy to ensure that every pupil is singing regularly and that choirs and other vocal ensembles are available in the area.

NPME extension roles

1. Offer Continuous Professional Development (CPD) to school staff, particularly in supporting schools to deliver music in the curriculum.

2. Provide an instrument loan service, with discounts or free provision for those on low incomes.

3. Provide access to large scale and/or high quality music experiences for pupils, working with professional musicians and/or venues. This may include undertaking work to publicise the opportunities available to schools, parents/carers and students.

If you are a school-based colleague, governor or parent who wishes to discuss how we can work with your school to provide all these opportunities then please get in touch using the details on our Contact Us page.