Practical, Evidence-Informed Support for Music Classrooms
I believe that great music teaching is both an art and a craft—and like all professionals, music teachers deserve the time, tools, and space to refine their practice. Whether you’re an early-career teacher or an experienced subject lead, my teaching and learning support is tailored to meet your needs and aligned with your school’s wider priorities.
With decades of experience in secondary music education, I offer hands-on, research-informed support to help you grow confidence, improve classroom practice, and keep your teaching both joyful and impactful.
CPD for Music Teachers
One of the most effective ways to grow as a teacher is through reflective, collaborative development. That’s why I take a coaching-style approach—not about judgement, but about professional dialogue, encouragement, and incremental improvement.
Here’s how I support pedagogical growth:
Lesson Observations with Feedback
Constructive, low-stakes observations followed by developmental feedback to help you refine your craft.
Demonstration Teaching
I’m happy to model strategies in your own classroom—be that teaching a tricky concept, trialling a new scheme, or showcasing techniques for engagement, differentiation, or classroom management.
Joint Planning and Reflection
Working together to plan high-quality lessons or schemes that are ambitious, accessible, and enjoyable.
Alignment with Whole-School Priorities
I tailor all my support to reflect your school or trust’s pedagogical focus, ensuring music remains part of the bigger educational picture.
Pedagogical Development
I offer bespoke Continuing Professional Development (CPD) sessions designed specifically for secondary music educators. These sessions can be delivered one-to-one, department-wide, or across networks and trusts, and can take place in person or online.
Topics include (but are not limited to):
Curriculum Intent & Implementation
Unpacking what we teach, why we teach it, and how to communicate it clearly.
Ofsted Deep Dive Preparation
Practical advice and planning support to ensure your music department is ready to articulate and evidence its strengths.
Adaptive Teaching & Inclusive Practice
Strategies for supporting a diverse range of learners, including SEND, EAL, and those with limited musical experience.
Music Technology & Digital Learning
Making the most of tech—whether you’re using DAWs, notation software, or virtual learning platforms.
Informal Learning & Classroom Creativity
Exploring learner-led, inclusive approaches to music-making inspired by real-world musical practices.
National Policy Updates
Staying up to date with curriculum changes, funding opportunities, and sector-wide developments that impact classroom practice.
All CPD can be designed to reflect your department’s stage of development, staff experience, and school improvement goals.
Ongoing Support
Professional development doesn’t have to be a one-off event. I also offer:
- Follow-up sessions for sustained impact
- Ongoing mentoring or coaching packages
- Support with CPD planning and strategic implementation across departments or hubs
Let’s Strengthen Teaching Together
If you’re looking for ways to develop teaching and learning in your music department, I’d love to help. My approach is practical, teacher-friendly, and grounded in real-world classroom experience.
Get in touch at fionasextonmusic@outlook.com to discuss how we can tailor support for you or your team.
