How Octagon Music Hub supports schools and partners
Octagon Music Hub plays a strategic role in supporting music education across Dorset and Somerset. Our work focuses on strengthening local music education systems by investing in partnerships, coordinating activity and supporting collaboration between schools, music providers and cultural organisations.
Funded by Arts Council England and working in partnership with the Department for Education, the Hub supports delivery of the National Plan for Music Education. Rather than delivering provision directly, our role is to enable others to deliver high-quality, inclusive music education that meets local need and supports progression for children and young people.
Supporting schools
We work with schools to help strengthen music education within a broad and balanced curriculum. This includes:
- Supporting access to high-quality music provision through partnership working
- Helping schools connect with specialist music providers and organisations
- Supporting inclusive approaches to music education, including provision for children and young people with SEND
- Encouraging clear progression routes within and beyond the classroom
We aim to support schools in developing sustainable, joined-up approaches to music education that align with national expectations and local priorities.
Working with music and cultural partners
Octagon Music Hub works closely with music organisations, practitioners and cultural partners across the region. Through funding, coordination and strategic leadership, we support partners to:
- Deliver inclusive and high-quality music education activity
- Reach children and young people who may otherwise face barriers to access
- Contribute specialist expertise to local music education provision
- Work collaboratively with schools and other partners
Partnership working is central to the Music Hub model, and we are committed to building strong, transparent relationships that support shared goals and long-term impact.
Funding and coordination
The Hub invests in music education activity through funded partnerships that align with local need and national priorities. We also play a coordinating role, helping to bring partners together, reduce duplication and strengthen pathways across the music education landscape.
Looking ahead
As education policy and local priorities continue to evolve, Octagon Music Hub will work closely with schools and partners to share guidance, support collaboration and help prepare for future developments. We are committed to championing inclusive, high-quality music education and ensuring that children and young people across Dorset and Somerset can access meaningful musical opportunities.
Schools and partners interested in working with Octagon Music Hub are encouraged to get in touch to find out more.