I’m a freelance music education consultant working with secondary schools across the UK to shape high-quality, inclusive music curriculum and support meaningful, evidence-informed teaching and learning. My work focuses on strategic curriculum design, preparation for Ofsted, and navigating the ever-evolving educational landscape—always with a commitment to music as a vital, vibrant subject for all young people.
My consultancy is rooted in the realities of the classroom. Alongside my consultancy work, I teach A level Music at an FE college, maintaining a direct connection to contemporary teaching practice. I also lead choirs for Norwich Sistema, where I contribute to community-based, inclusive music-making that embodies the social power of music education.
I’ve worked with a wide range of schools and educators to improve music teaching across all Key Stages. I was Head of Music at a Norfolk high school for over 20 years and then Lead Practitioner for Music within a large multi-academy trust. In that role, I supported teachers across the country through mentoring, curriculum planning, and professional development. I’ve also coordinated music networks and delivered training on topics ranging from curriculum design and adaptive teaching to the practicalities of music technology and assessment.
My academic background is in classical music, and I trained as a secondary teacher after completing my degree. I’m a violinist and regularly perform in orchestras and ensembles, and I have a lifelong love of singing. In 2014, I completed an MEd exploring the nature of informal learning in secondary music classrooms—research that continues to inform my work today.
My interest in classroom-based research goes back to my early career, when I contributed to national studies on teaching and learning in Key Stage 3 music. Since then, I’ve spoken at numerous conferences including the Reflective Conservatoire, RIME, and Music & Drama Expo, and published articles in academic journals and education blogs. I’ve been involved in evaluating national resources, including the Sing Up Secondary programme and Trinity’s Rock & Pop teaching materials, and have contributed case studies for Ofsted and curriculum development projects for multi-academy trusts.
At the heart of everything I do is a commitment to helping music teachers build confident, creative classrooms where all students can succeed. Whether supporting curriculum reviews, delivering CPD, or advising on strategic planning, I bring practical experience, up-to-date knowledge, and a deep belief in the value of music education.
