Every Child a Musician FAQs

What is Every Child a Musician?

Every Child a Musician is a groundbreaking new programme launched by the Mayor of Newham. It will give children in Year 5 and Year 6 the opportunity to learn how to play an instrument, at no cost to parents. The programme will be rolled out to Year 5 children in all schools throughout the 2010/11 school year.

Who is Every Child a Musician for?

Music lessons will start for Newham children in primary school in Year 5 and continue through to the end of Year 6. The first set of children will begin their lessons during the Autumn term. The scheme will roll out to all schools throughout the 2010/11 school year.

How can music help my child?

Learning a musical instrument can enhance a child's learning experience at school in many ways. Research has shown that musical training enhances other types of learning. For example, it can contribute to improving literacy, creativity and general intellectual development, as well as increasing concentration. Taking part in music classes can improve children's self confidence, self esteem and team working as well as give children a sense of achievement. By giving a child the opportunity to learn and take care of an instrument they can learn to appreciate the values of responsibility self-discipline and commitment.

When will my child be able to join the scheme?

The programme will be rolled out to Year 5 children in all schools throughout the 2010/11 school year. It will start in 11 schools in Autumn term 2010 and will then be available in 30 schools in Spring term 2011. By the Summer term 2011 all 66 Newham schools will be running the programme.

Which instruments can children learn?

Children can learn to play the trumpet, clarinet, violin, viola, cello, flute, guitar or keyboard. Each school will have a selection of three instruments for children to choose from.

How can my child decide which musical instrument to learn?

When your child's school begins to offer the programme your child's class will have the chance to hear and try out a range of musical instruments during a taster session at the start of term. This is great way for children to experience a variety of musical instruments and so they can decide what they might like to learn.

How many lessons will my child do per week?

There will be one lesson per week, per child, with each school determining the most suitable day and time of the lesson.

Where will the lessons take place?

Lessons will take place at your child's school.

What can my child expect to learn?

Your child's tuition will focus on learning to play the chosen instrument, including how to read music. Your child will also learn about the instrument itself e.g. its history and role in musical performances.

Who pays for the Every Child a Musician programme?

Newham Council will subsidise all costs associated with the programme.

How can I support my child in their musical learning?

Your child will need your support and encouragement to help them to make the most of this opportunity. Each school is committed to working with you and your child to ensure the instrument is well maintained and cared for. Being interested in your child's progress and listening to them play will help to motivate and encourage your child. Being available, where possible, to supervise practice time at home will also be helpful.

How often should my child practise?

Your child will be allowed to bring their instrument home to practise. Some schools will also provide practice sessions during breaks and after school. Practice will improve your child's musical progress and your child's music tutor will advise on the amount of time they should practise per week.

How will my child's progress be monitored and reported back to me?

Each child will be provided with a motivational booklet. Your child's music tutor will update the book with how your child is progressing on a weekly basis. The booklet will be given back to your child every week for you to review.

How can parents/carers ensure the instrument remains in good working order?

You and your child will be responsible for taking care of the instrument. Each instrument comes with a carry case for protection, so you will need to ensure the instrument is stored and transported in this case. Your child's music tutor will advise on how to care to the instrument they choose.

What happens if the instrument breaks or my child loses the instrument?

You will be responsible for reporting instrument loss or damage to the school. Within reason, we will provide replacement instruments in cases of loss or damage. Schools will be able to provide you with the detailed policy on this.

Why is the Mayor providing this scheme?

The Mayor is delivering on the promise that he made in his 2010/11 contract to provide free music tuition to every year 5 child. The programme is a way of supporting traditional learning in school. Playing an instrument can help with academic learning through increased discipline and commitment. Music is fun and can give children more confidence and help raise their self-esteem, both of which are key influences in doing well at school.

How can I find out more information?

When your child's school begins to roll out the scheme, you will be invited to an Every Child's a Musician information workshop that will be held at your child's school. You can also speak to your child's teacher for more information. You can alternatively email questions or queries to everychildamusician@newham.gov.uk