In partnership with our NEMH Lead Schools and Music Mark, we were delighted to welcome primary and secondary music teachers from across the region to the Glasshouse International Centre for Music, for two inspiring days of professional development where we explored new ideas, built confidence, and strengthened their practice through keynote sessions, practical workshops, and shared musical experiences. From confidence‑boosting singing sessions to thought‑provoking breakouts led by expert practitioners, both events showcased the passion and dedication that drive music education forward in the North East.

Primary Music Practice: Confidence in the Music Classroom

Our Primary Music Practice day began with an uplifting keynote from Darren Abrahams, exploring how Music Education Can Change the World. His message set a reflective and energising tone for the day, reminding us of the transformative impact that music can have on pupils and teachers alike.

The facilitator standing in front of a lectern arms spread wide with delegates who are sat at round tables raising their hands. — Darren Abrahams Keynote address

Throughout the morning and afternoon, delegates took part in a carousel of expertly led breakout sessions from our Lead Schools, including:

How to Lead an Ensemble for KS2
Story Orchestra: teaching music skills alongside a love of reading
Engaging Families and the Wider Community
Confidence in Leading Singing

Facilitator standing in front of delegates with arms raised. Delegates sat in semi circle playing glockenspiels. — How to Lead an Ensemble for KS2 breakout session

A highlight of the day for many was the series of confidence-boosting leading singing sessions led by Stuart Overington, culminating in a massed singing workshop that filled the room with joy and energy.

Facilitator standing at front of room with arms raised, with group of delegates sat in semi circle facing them. — Confidence in Leading Singing breakout session

Secondary Music Symposium: Inspiration and Inclusivity

The following day, we were thrilled to welcome secondary specialists for our Secondary Music Symposium. The energy was high from the outset, with a rousing whole-group singing session once again led by the brilliant Stuart Overington.

Facilitator at front of room leading body warmup by raising one arm with other had resting on ribs, all delegates sat down at circular tables copying them. — Stuart Overington Confidence in Leading Singing

Teachers then explored diverse and impactful breakout sessions led by their peers from our Lead Schools, covering themes such as:

Upskilling teachers in using Music Technology
Expanding your co‑curricular offer
Creating a Brilliant Singing Culture at KS3
Providing a Practical Musicianship Curriculum at KS3
Being a Music Leader: working with your feeder schools

Facilitator sat at front of room with delegates sat in semi circle facing them. — Providing a Practical Musicianship Curriculum at KS3 breakout session

Our Decks & Dinner lunchtime session gave staff space to network and try out music tech tools in a relaxed and creative setting.

The event concluded with a powerful keynote from Darren Abrahams, focusing on how Music Education Can Change the World. It was an inspiring end to a day that championed inclusivity and creativity.

To portable mini keyboards resting on black chairs.

Thank You

A huge thank you to everyone who joined us, to our NEMH Lead Schools for their expertise and dedication, to Music Mark for their partnership, and to The Glasshouse for hosting us in their spaces.

Most of all, thank you to the teachers whose passion for music education enriches the lives of young people every single day.

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NEMH Autumn Newsletter 2025