Question to the Department for Education:

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, what discussions her Department has had with music educators on the National Plan for Music Education; and whether that Plan should (a) include Early Years, (b) recognise informal pathways for young musicians and (c) continue with universal provision or be focussed on disadvantaged children.

The Department has regular meetings with music educators to discuss aspects of the National Plan for Music Education. Music teaching starts in the early years and the plan provides a template for high quality music education throughout a pupil’s education, both in and out of school, in both formal and informal settings. Our vision continues to be that children from all backgrounds and every part of England have the opportunity to learn a musical instrument; to make music with others; to learn to sing; and to have the opportunity to progress to the next level. We will continue to consider the best way of ensuring that disadvantaged children can benefit from all programmes we fund.