Music Connect provides a programme of network groups, CPD and events designed specifically for Music leaders, as well as class teachers and teaching assistants. It was created specifically to support all schools in Leeds in delivering high quality Music education. Music Connect is delivered by ArtForms who are always available for any queries regarding your school Music curriculum. We work with schools through all stages of curriculum development with the aim of facilitating all pupils to reach their musical potential.
Music Connect receives funding from the new West Yorkshire Music Hub which enables ArtForms, as one of the lead partners, to offer the programme to Leeds Schools and Academies at no charge. Events for children do now incur a small charge of £2 per child.
During the 2025-26 academic year schools are able to access:
- Professional development opportunities for teachers and supporting staff, delivered by music specialists.
- Network meetings to support Primary Music Leaders.
- Network meetings to support Secondary Music Leaders.
- Updates of national, regional and local developments in Music.
- Music curriculum development meetings which are bespoke advice and guidance sessions in your school (1 hour per school per year, extra time can be purchased). This meeting will usually take place with the Music Leader or SLT. Unfortunately it cannot be used as a Staff Training session.
- Access to Charanga, Sing Up, Musical Futures or Sparkyard from Out of the Ark which are online music resources, that include full Music curriculums for schools, designed to support non-specialists to deliver the music curriculum. These are fully funded from 1st October for a full year.
- Performance events for children that include Winter Voices, KS1 Little Sing, Secondary Sing, Big Samba and the KS2 Big Sing.
Schools are permitted to send up to two delegates to each of the sessions from the calendar, subject to availability.
All training sessions are subject to change and will be regularly updated.
Unless otherwise stated, please book your chosen sessions via www.LeedsforLearning.co.uk.
In-school, whole staff training is chargeable at:
- £250 for up to 1.5 hours.
- £440 for a half day.
- £735 for a full day.
Schools and colleagues outside of Leeds are charged at the following rates:
Twilight sessions: £85
Half day sessions: £130
In the event of cancellation by the school, ArtForms reserves the right to collect fees according to the following guidelines: 5 days or more before delivery is scheduled – the fee is waived; 4 days or less before delivery is scheduled – 100% of full fee. This is applicable to all institutions regardless of subsidy.
For further information about Music Connect, including in-school training and support, or you have any queries, please contact Sam Mercer, Music Curriculum Support Manager: Sam.Mercer@leeds.gov.uk
