At the recent Music & Drama Education Expo in London, the ISM Trust launched its latest initiative, Breaking the Singing Barrier. This free digital resource, devised in partnership with Voices Foundation, aims to equip teachers with tools and strategies to help students overcome obstacles to singing in schools. For many music teachers, facilitating singing can present unique challenges. From tackling vocal insecurities to fostering inclusivity, educators often lack resources to guide their students effectively. Recognising this need, the ISM Trust developed ‘Breaking the Singing Barrier’ as an empowering toolkit tailored to the needs of music teachers.
The resource comprises four webinars and a series of 20 short videos, presented by singing experts and vocal practitioners. It offers a range of practical tips and pedagogical insights to foster vocal development in students of all ages and abilities. Whether teaching singing in early years or primary settings, or leading choirs in secondary schools, educators will discover adaptable strategies to nurture confident and expressive singers. The webinars provide a forum for exploration of the issues and interactive discussion, including:
- SEND barriers to singing – addressing the diverse needs of students with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities, access practical strategies for creating inclusive and supportive singing environments.
- Cultural barriers to singing – recognising the cultural diversity within school communities, explore the cultural and social influences that may impact students' engagement with singing.
- Differing barriers between primary and secondary singing – discover strategies to aid progression, and explore challenges such as lack of teacher training, school culture, changing voices, and time.
- Psychological and personal barriers to singing – understand psychological barriers such as performance anxiety and self-doubt, and learn techniques to cultivate students' confidence as singers.
The library of 20 short videos enrich educators' understanding of singing barriers and offer practical advice, covering: creating an inclusive singing environment; progression and pathways; creating a singing culture; and leading a school choir.
By equipping music teachers with this new resource, the ISM Trust aims to enrich music education and foster a lifelong love for music and singing among students. ‘Breaking the Singing Barrier’ stands as a testament to the ISM Trust's commitment to excellence in UK music education and inclusivity within schools.
