Primary Schools
At Nottingham Music Service (NMS), we believe every child should have the chance to enjoy and learn through music. We provide a music framework for all schools from Early Years (EYFS) to Year 6. This framework follows the National Plan for Music Education and the Model Music Curriculum, giving teachers up-to-date resources, ideas, and best practice. This means music is part of school life for every child, not just in the older years.
Most children in Year 4 learn an instrument together as a whole class; this could be anything from the trumpet to the violin! After this first year, many schools offer follow-on lessons so children can keep learning in smaller, supportive groups in Years 5 and 6.
Children in Years 5 and 6 may also be able to join an after school ‘Area Band’. This gives them the chance to play music with others and perform in concerts. Area Bands are a fun way to build confidence and enjoy making music as part of a group.
We work closely with almost all Nottingham primary schools, giving teachers the resources and support they need to provide high-quality music lessons.
If you would like to know more, please ask your child’s teacher or school office.
Secondary Schools
Moving to secondary school is an important step, but it can also be the time when many children stop playing an instrument. NMS works with secondary schools, colleges, and academies to make sure your child’s musical journey can continue.
Your child may be able to take part in small group lessons, choirs, ensembles, music technology programmes and exciting city-wide performances. These opportunities help students to progress, stay motivated and develop important life skills through music.
Direct Parent Billing
We currently offer direct parent billing at the following secondary schools:
- Nottingham University Academy of Science and Technology – Guitar, piano/keys and strings (violin, viola, cello)
- The Nottingham Emmanuel School – Strings (violin, viola, cello)
If you attend one of these schools and would like to receive instrumental lessons with Nottingham Music Service staff, please sign up via Speed Admin
You will need to select your child’s school (beneath the Lessons in School box) and browse the available instrumental lessons. You can also hire an instrument through the same link. If you have previously enrolled in one of our ensembles, please sign in to complete registration. If you have not registered with us before, a new online account will be created for you. Once you have completed the registration form, we will send you further information about your lessons to confirm and ask for payment. Please read our Terms and Conditions for parents:
We also work with many other Nottingham city schools to provide musical opportunities for young people attending their schools. If you would like to know more, please ask your child’s school or email us at info@nottinghammusichub.org.uk
SEND Schools
NMS is proud to work with schools that support children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), as well as SEMH and PRU schools. We design our music lessons to meet the needs of every pupil.
Children can learn instruments in whole classes, small groups, or individually. We also work with specialist partner organisations to make sure every child has the chance to enjoy music in a way that works best for them.