Teaching music, whether in schools or as a visiting music teacher (VMT), comes with unique challenges, and chief among them is professional isolation This isolation can stem from various factors, such as solitary working conditions, the often-undervalued status of music in school curriculums, and limited collaborative opportunities with other teachers. Despite these challenges, you're not alone. There are many ways to overcome this feeling of isolation, benefiting yourself and your students.
Silo working
Music teachers often work in isolation within schools or in very small departments. Unlike teachers in core subjects such as Maths or English, who might have many colleagues within their departments, music teachers are frequently the sole subject representative at their school. VMTs can feel isolated due to their nomadic work nature and lack of a regular community.
No matter its source, isolation can lead to a lack of support, both professionally and personally. Peers provide a community with which to share ideas, discuss challenges, or collaborate on projects. Without direct colleagues, music teachers may risk feeling disconnected from the broader educational community.
Beyond the staff room, the attitude towards music in a school's culture and curriculum can have a significant impact on how teachers feel. In many schools, music is not given the same emphasis as core academic subjects. Budget cuts and a focus on EBacc subjects have led to a reduction in the number of music classes offered and resources available. This marginalisation can make music teachers feel undervalued and further isolate them from other staff.
Making connections
Music teachers are nothing if not resourceful. There are numerous opportunities which colleagues have discovered to help overcome professional isolation:
- Continuing professional development (CPD). Attending workshops, conferences, and seminars dedicated to music education allows teachers to connect with peers, share best practice, and stay updated on the latest trends and methods.
- Networking opportunities. Professional organisations such as the Musicians' Union (MU), Music Mark and the Music Teachers' Association (MTA) provide valuable networks and support for music teachers. We particularly like the Charter for Visiting Music Teachers from the MU and the National Education Union (see box) that supports schools and VMTs to work together, making the most out of the partnership. You can also consider online forums and social media for connection, resource-sharing and peer support.
- Your local music hub. Seeking out your local music hub is another way to broaden your network of opportunities for you and your learners. Hubs often provide networking sessions, CPD and other support, to ensure you are part of your area's wider music education ecosystem.
At Kent Music, we provide opportunities for all music leads through our termly online meetings and in-person local networks. Recently, we brought together secondary school music leads to support the moderation process for composition and performance units at GCSE. The session provided essential networking opportunities and a place to share best practice. Hubs across England offer similar opportunities.
Collective impact
Addressing the feeling of professional isolation among music teachers can have a profound positive impact across the learning environment. For teachers, feeling connected and supported can lead to greater job satisfaction and reduced stress. It can also foster a sense of professional identity and pride in your work. A valued, supported music teacher has greater mental capacity for the very things they entered the profession for – a passion and an enthusiasm for music and teaching!
Reducing isolation among music teachers can also lead to a more vibrant and dynamic music programme within schools. Collaborative projects and interdisciplinary teaching can create a more engaging and diverse learning environment. Students can benefit from a richer educational experience that not only enhances their musical skills but also broadens their understanding and appreciation of music's role in culture and history.
Remember, you're not alone! By leveraging the resources and networks available, music teachers can overcome the challenges of professional isolation. The collective effort to support and uplift each other can transform the landscape of music education, ensuring that you, your students and your schools thrive.
- MU–NEU Charter for VMTs: tinyurl.com/42hbpzvt
- kent-music.com
