Singing Strategy: A National Picture

On the very last day of November 2016, representatives from England’s Music Education Hubs gathered at the Singing Strategy Symposium to debate and discuss methods to ensure that every child sings regularly. As in previous years, they were asked a set of questions to help us paint a picture of Singing Strategy provision in England.

We asked: What is the main purpose of a singing strategy?

• “To get as many children singing as possible”
• “To ensure high quality”
• “To foster a love of singing beyond the term of engagement”
• “To break down preconceptions”
• “To bring focus to and take responsibility for singing & its importance”
• “To identify gaps and ensure regular singing is accessed in and out of school”
• “To offer and flag progression routes”
• “To show the larger picture”
• “Access to / development for participants”
• “To maintain the importance of singing”
• “To ensure that every child has access to regular high quality experiences”

We asked: What are the main ingredients of a singing strategy?

• “Performance Opportunities”
• “Singing Leader CPD”
• “Progression signposting”
• “Collaboration with professionals, in equal partnerships”
• “Mix of styles and genres”
• “Really engaging animateurs, skilled at working with and relating to children”
• Youth-led creativity, make the part, not play the part”
• “Quality – of delivery, of opportunity, of performance”
• “Quantity – numbers involved”
• “Pathways to progression – learning journeys”
• “Meaningful targets and activities – awareness of stakeholders”
• “Measurable outcomes – including fun!”
• “Built in systems of reflection”
• “Informed repertoire choices and good quality resources”
• “Advocacy”

We asked: What are your priorities for singing strategy up to 2020?

• “Legacy”
• “Youth Voice”
• “SEND Strategy”
• “Audit of status quo, leading to development of strategy”
• “CPD”
• “Refine strategy”
• “Evaluation”
• “Building strong networks within and beyond boroughs”
• “Emphasis on cross-curricular links”
• “Events and performance opportunities”
• “Motivational goals”
• “Regularity of singing”
• “Increased diversity and inclusion”
• “Outreach without the concept of elitism”
• “Developing a culture of personal progression for children and staff”
• “Accountability”
• “Transition”
• “Secondary”
• “Quality principles”