Exploring England’s primary music education needs: Insights from schools’ senior leadership, music curriculum leaders, generalist teachers, and music hubs

The Open University (OU), in partnership with Music Mark (MM) and the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightnement (OAE), conducted research with two main objectives. First, to identify the specific needs of primary music education in England from key stakeholders’ perspectives. Second, to explore how collaboration among the participating organisations could enhance music education in England’s primary schools, providing a foundation for future planning. The study involved 48 participants, including headteachers, music curriculum Leaders, classroom teachers, and music service providers from primary school settings. It focused on classroom music lessons, excluding individual and small group tuition. The study used a qualitative research approach with constant comparative analysis. Data were collected through an online questionnaire and focus group interviews. Responses were coded to identify relevant themes. Findings highlighted the need for (1) advocating for music education in schools, (2) strengthening initial teacher training with a more robust music teaching component, and (3) empowering music curriculum leaders and generalist teachers to influence school leaders. These findings hold relevance for similar educational contexts in England, the rest of the United Kingdom, and internationally. Suggestions for the involved partners extend beyond this collaboration, offering insights for future joint initiatives.