CPD created for teachers by teachers
These seven videos form part of the Octagon Music Hub Lead Schools Teacher-Led CPD Programme, delivered in partnership with Dorset Music Service and Somerset Music, and funded by Arts Council England on behalf of the Department for Education.
Showcasing innovative and inclusive practice from across Dorset and Somerset, the programme supports high-quality music education, wellbeing, participation and progression for children and young people.
Through real classroom examples, educators can learn directly from colleagues working at the forefront of music education practice.
Inclusive Music Education: Practical Approaches for SEND and Mainstream Settings
Featuring Polden Bower School and Westfield Arts College, this session explores practical approaches to creating inclusive musical experiences where all learners can participate and thrive. Drawing on examples from mainstream and specialist settings, contributors share strategies for reducing barriers, supporting communication and enabling meaningful musical expression through the Sounds of Intent framework, accessible instruments and music technology.
Music, Belonging and Engagement: Supporting Young People to Thrive
Delivered by Ferndown Middle School, this inspiring session explores how music can reconnect young people who may be disengaging from school. Through real-life examples, the session demonstrates how creative music-making can build confidence, strengthen relationships, foster belonging and create pathways back into learning. Discover practical approaches that support wellbeing, engagement and positive outcomes for children and young people.
Building a Musical Ethos and Curriculum:
Featuring Prince of Wales First School (Dorset) and Kingsmead School (Somerset), this session explores how schools can create a strong musical culture through inclusive curriculum design and meaningful musical experiences. Drawing on practical examples from primary and secondary settings, speakers share approaches to cultural capital, pupil voice and student ownership, demonstrating how music can foster belonging, confidence, creativity and engagement across the whole school community.
Music Industry Links and Creative Careers | Student-Led Music Enterprise
This session showcases Strode Live, a student-led music and production company that connects young people with real-world industry experience. Led by Daniel Shaw and Josh Atkinson, the session explores how live events, festivals and professional partnerships help students develop confidence, leadership and transferable skills, while creating meaningful pathways into music and the wider creative industries.
Early Years Music: Practical Ideas for Musical Development and School Readiness
Led by Lead School practitioner Julia Hurley, this practical session explores how music can support emotional wellbeing, communication and social development in Early Years settings. Through songs, movement and imaginative play, Julia shares accessible activities that help develop confidence, cooperation, self-expression and early leadership skills, while embedding Personal, Social and Emotional Development (PSED) naturally into everyday practice.
Integrating Music Technology at KS3 | Music Education Classroom Practice
Featuring Nic Adams (The Castle School) and Val Mizen (The Gryphon School), this session explores practical approaches to embedding music technology within an inclusive and engaging KS3 curriculum. Drawing on classroom practice, contributors demonstrate how music technology can support creativity, accessibility and progression, enabling all learners including non-instrumentalists and SEND pupils. to participate, create and succeed.
Music Education Partnerships: The Power of Collaboration
Featuring Hanna Trevorrow (The Thomas Hardye School) and Lorraine Clarke (West Pennard CE Primary School), this session explores how schools can build meaningful partnerships to enrich music education and create new opportunities for children and young people. Drawing on examples from primary and secondary settings, contributors share practical approaches to working with music hubs, community organisations, cultural partners and local networks, demonstrating how collaboration can support participation, inclusion and progression in music.