Primary and Secondary Schools' Music Education Conference

In collaboration between Derby & Derbyshire Music Partnership and the Lead Schools for Music, this conference brings together our region's primary and secondary schools for the very first time.

It’s a rare chance to connect colleagues across primary and secondary phases, spark fresh ideas, and strengthen your music education networks—while also spending valuable time in your own school settings and as part of the wider community.

Book a place now!

• Tuesday 25 November, 9,00am-3.30pm
  Chesterfield Studios, Chesterfield S40 1LW
• Cost: £50 per attendee – Lunch and refreshments are included

Booking closes end of Friday 14 November

What will be included

The conference has been deisgned to reflect the diverse needs of music educators both regionally and nationally, but those who sign up will also be able to share their local priorities with us too – helping to refine the day to ensure it’s as relevant, responsive, and impactful as possible.

Ofsted Update: Music in Schools

Gain valuable insights as we explore the latest guidance published by Lead Inspector Christopher Stevens on music education in schools, set to take effect from November 2025.

This session will explore what these developments mean for our settings, helping us understand key implications and prepare for future expectations with clarity and confidence.

Keynote Speaker Sam Stimpson

We’re thrilled to welcome Sam Stimpson – an inspiring leader with a wealth of experience in cultural arts, music education, and diversity and inclusion.

• Current challenges: Explore pressing issues in Music Education and their implications for our individual settings.
• Creative development: Fresh insights and practical strategies to support change and inspire creative growth.
• Collaborative impact: Sam will encourage shared reflection and dialogue, helping us work together to shape meaningful change in our region.

Curriculum Connections: Strengthening the KS2 to KS3 transition

A valuable and insightful session focussing on what pupils are currently learning in their music classrooms across primary and secondary schools – a great opportunity to share practice, spark ideas, and support smoother transitions for learners.

• Curriculum themes: Highlighting key musical concepts and skills that support continuity between KS2 and KS3.
• Teaching approaches: Exploring the challenges of transition from KS2 to KS3, with a focus on developing local and regional solutions through stronger collaborative working.

Tailored support for Primary and Secondary settings

A range of practical sessions to suit your phase inlcuding:

• School Music Development Plans: Help and support with creating, reviewing, or updating your plan, whether you're just starting out or looking to make meaningful improvements.
• Primary focus – Building confidence: Build confidence in delivering music and navigating the curriculum, including support with curriculum platforms and practical classroom strategies.
• Secondary focus – Oracy in music education: Explore how speaking, listening, and musical discussion can deepen understanding, support assessment, and empower students to articulate their musical thinking.
• Responsive content: Attendees will have the chance to share their priorities ahead of the event, helping us shape the day with more features that will address as many needs as possible.
• Networking: A chance to meet and network with colleagues.