Musicbuds – Doing Diversity Differently

At the beginning of August, we sent a callout for members to share projects or resources championing inclusivity and diversity in response to the riots that took place across the UK. Musicbuds provide training and resources to promote diversity, equity and inclusion for those working with Early Years and Primary-age children – read on to find out more about their work, and an exclusive discount for Music Mark members!

What is Musicbuds?

‘Musicbuds’ is dedicated to doing diversity differently. Our mission is to promote positive diversity, equity, and inclusivity (DEI) awareness among young children through songs and musical activities, by engaging their important adults in vibrant DEI learning that can be immediately applied within their own professional and personal practice.

We offer CPD-accredited online DEI courses, song delivery training, and child-focused materials. These are designed to help adults build the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to promote and model positive DEI approaches for young children.

Our training is designed for everyone working with Early Years and Primary-age children. Whether you’re a beginner unsure of where to start, or a senior manager or inclusivity lead seeking to implement effective DEI training for your team, we offer resources tailored to all experience levels.

“Offering a wealth of ideas that promote diversity, equity and inclusion: all relevant, comprehensive, meticulously planned and presented, and FUN, Musicbuds’ resources are the best I have found in 35 years of teaching.” Ju Birchall ~ EY/KS1 Project and Music Leader and Trainer, Derbyshire

What’s our story?

Dr. Clare Seymour

Dr. Clare Seymour, an experienced music educator, examiner, and BBC consultant, has long collaborated with teachers to create resonant songs for young children. Musicbuds began as a community initiative and has since evolved to promote positive DEI awareness. Over the past four years, Clare has developed CPD-accredited online training courses that blend original songs with DEI principles, ensuring they are age-appropriate while maintaining musical integrity.

In response to the lack of DEI resources in music education — highlighted particularly after the George Floyd tragedy during the COVID-19 pandemic — Clare and her team created and tested resources, including songs for young children, to deliver DEI training. These resources are now being actively promoted through partnerships with organisations such as Music Mark and the Derby & Derbyshire Music Partnership.

The Musicbuds team is dedicated to integrating DEI education into Early Years and Primary curriculums, equipping educators with tools to nurture respect, kindness, tolerance, understanding, and empathy in young children, while challenging discriminatory behaviours from an early age.

How can we help you?

Our goal is to build a warm, welcoming community of like-minded individuals committed to becoming better DEI practitioners. As a peripatetic teacher, Clare understands the isolation that music specialists often face and is passionate about creating a safe and supportive online space for peers and colleagues.

We offer DEI-focused products for all skill levels, from beginners to senior professionals. Alongside our pre-prepared programs, we provide bespoke training packages, including assembly resources and ongoing CPD opportunities for staff.

Our signature (and increasingly popular) CPD-Accredited course, “Study and Songs to Support DEI Awareness”, is a 12-week, self-paced online programme that covers:

• Core DEI topics: Explore key issues like identity, language, bias, discrimination, and stereotyping.
• Reflective exercises: Engage in thought-provoking activities designed to deepen your understanding of each topic.
• Child development insights: Learn about the impact of DEI issues on the growth and well-being of young children.
• Practical applications: Discover actionable strategies to immediately apply DEI principles in your daily practice.
• Original songs and resources: Access specially composed songs, along with accompanying materials and video guides tailored for educators.
• Professional tools: Download a variety of resources to support your professional practice.

“Huge thanks to Dr. Clare Seymour for sharing her wisdom via this superb online course… Part of Clare’s Doctoral research involved exploring the often hidden aspects of institutional racism. As a result, she has a longstanding interest in promoting positive diversity and did it with such clarity and care via this beautifully presented online course. Highly recommended for anyone who wants to gain a deeper understanding of this subject.” Jane Parker ~ Course Director, Certificate of Music Education

This course allows flexible learning at your own pace and schedule, helping you integrate DEI principles effectively across your practice. Download our brochure to find details about all of our courses, as well as a special discount for Music Mark members for September 2024.

Empowering change through music

Our resources aim to normalise respectful challenges, and counteract ignorance and prejudice. By blending DEI principles with engaging musical content, we inspire both educators and children to advocate for positive change.

Join our community for free resources

We also regularly offer a variety of free ‘musical-diversity’ resources to those on our mailing list. Each week, our email newsletter covers a relevant and topical DEI and/or singing-related subject to consider and act upon. Sign up for our weekly email here.

If you share our vision and know someone who could benefit from our work, please spread the word. Our courses are designed to guide educators in nurturing a generation that values diversity, equity, and inclusivity.

Let’s connect

Would you like to chat? If you’re interested in working with us, collaborating, or learning more about our offerings, book a call with Clare — she’d love to hear from you!