Inspiring the next generation of vocal and instrumental teachers: three ways we’re supporting the future workforce

Many of us will be able to recall a teacher from childhood who has made a profound impact on our learning, perspective, or outlook that has stuck with us through to adulthood. Indeed, an inspiring music teacher can set children up for a lifelong love of music-making. But how can we ensure that the music teachers of the future get the support and training they need to successfully enter the profession? At Music Mark, we’re committed to inspiring the next generation of vocal and instrumental teachers and celebrating the many routes into teaching.

Catherine Brentnall, Editor and Coordinator of A Common Approach, explains why this work is important:

“Degrees, postgraduate qualifications, diplomas, the CME, apprentice schemes and on-the-job training: there is no single, standard route into the vocal and instrumental teaching profession. This can be considered a positive, as it means that prospective teachers can find a route that suits their circumstances and existing skills. But it also means that there’s a need for clarity of information around the options that exist. By raising awareness of the variety of routes and championing the potential of A Common Approach to support teacher development, we aim to inspire and nurture the vocal and instrumental teaching workforce of tomorrow.”

Here are just three ways that Music Mark is providing clarity around routes into teaching and supporting the future workforce:

1. Qualifications in Vocal and Instrumental Teaching: ​For those who are looking to develop their teaching skills and gain an accredited qualification, our brand new directory gives you the opportunity to navigate the wealth of options available in the UK, including undergraduate courses, Masters degrees, PGCEs, PGCerts, diplomas, and the Certificate for Music Educators (CME). Find out more.

2. How can our online curriculum, A Common Approach, contribute to teacher development? Our new guide outlines how A Common Approach can be used to give those entering the profession a solid foundation of knowledge and skills. Aimed at anyone involved in supporting new vocal and instrumental teachers, including universities, conservatoires, music hubs/services and other training providers, the guide includes case studies from organisations that have already embedded A Common Approach within their development programmes as well as specific prompts for using the materials to support teacher development. Take a look at the guide here.

3. Routes into Teaching Webinar:​ On 9 February 2023 we will be hosting a free webinar for music students to inspire them to consider a career in vocal or instrumental teaching. Aimed at KS5 and HE students, the webinar will include information about qualifications and training, interviews with current teachers, presentations from training establishments and music services, and the chance to put your questions to the experts. Speakers include Vicki Brown (Curriculum Consultant, Derbyshire Music Hub), Charlotte Buxton (Deputy Head of Music Service, Services for Education), Kelly Davey Nicklin (PGCE Secondary Course Leader and Senior Lecturer in Music Education, Birmingham City University) and Anna Lang (Senior Leader: Teaching and Learning, Berkshire Maestros). Find out more and register here.