Stronger Together: Why Collaboration Is Key in Secondary Music Education
In a subject like music—where passion, creativity, and personal expression are at the heart of what we do—collaboration between teachers can be one of the most powerful tools we have.
As a freelance music education consultant, I’ve had the privilege of working with secondary school music teachers across the UK. And while every school and department has its own unique challenges, one constant remains: when teachers connect, share, and support one another, incredible things happen.
A Partnership, Not a Prescription
My approach to music curriculum consultancy is rooted in collaboration. I don’t believe in off-the-shelf solutions or generic templates. Instead, I work alongside music teachers to co-develop ideas, refine practice, and build strategies that are relevant, realistic, and rooted in classroom music pedagogy.
Whether we’re redesigning a Key Stage 3 music curriculum, preparing for an Ofsted deep dive, or developing new ways to teach composition or listening, my aim is always to act as a partner—offering guidance, insight, and fresh perspective, while respecting the expertise and context of the teacher in front of me.
The Power of Professional Dialogue
One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is the professional conversations I get to have with music educators. These discussions often spark:
- New approaches to sequencing or assessment
- Ideas for making lessons more inclusive and adaptive
- Solutions to common challenges around time, tech, or student engagement
- A renewed sense of clarity and confidence in curriculum intent
In a subject that can often feel isolated within schools, these moments of dialogue are more than just productive—they’re energising.
Practical, Teacher-Led Support
As a former Head of Music and Lead Practitioner, I understand the day-to-day realities of secondary music teaching: the one-person departments, the tech issues, the last-minute timetable changes, and the endless juggling act of concerts, coursework, and CPD.
That’s why my support is always designed to lighten the load, not add to it. Some of the most impactful work I’ve done with teachers includes:
- Co-writing schemes of work tailored to specific school priorities
- Team-teaching or modelling lessons to explore new pedagogical approaches
- Providing targeted feedback through coaching-style observation
- Helping teachers develop and articulate their music curriculum intent with clarity
Building a Network of Trust and Growth
Beyond one-to-one work, I also support music teacher networks, creating spaces where teachers can connect, share resources, and develop professionally. Whether through in-person CPD, online workshops, or trust-wide training, I’ve seen first-hand the value of collective knowledge and experience.
When teachers collaborate, it’s not just ideas that grow—confidence, leadership, and morale grow too.
Let’s Work Together
If you’re a secondary music teacher looking for practical support, a fresh pair of eyes, or just someone who understands the highs and lows of your subject, I’d love to connect. Whether it’s music curriculum planning, teaching support, or CPD delivery, we can work together to strengthen your department, support your students, and help music thrive in your school.
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