98% of School Staff Recognise the Importance of Singing
Voices Foundation is delighted to report the key findings of our mid-term school survey. The survey yielded some excellent results, delving into the qualities of Voices Foundation Artist Practitioners as well as the experience of school staff during Voices Foundation programmes. 165 responses were collected from school staff participating in one of our year-long CPD programmes between February and March 2022. The survey examined the qualities of Voices Artist Practitioners, as well as the skills gained by school staff through participation in the CPD programme and the benefits to pupils.
Many of our Singing Schools have faced difficult times in the past two years, due to Covid-19 and budget cuts, but have remained resilient and determined. During these challenging times, Voices Foundation has worked in person and online with each school to provide accessible, high-quality music education, empowering educators and supporting the development of pupils.
The key findings from the survey revealed that 93% of Voices Foundation Practitioners were rated highly for adapting training to suit the needs of teachers and pupils. Moreover, 98% of our Singing School staff agreed that they understood the benefits that musical activity can have on pupils.
"Children respond well to music lessons. I see an improvement in their behaviour during these sessions, and I can take things from these sessions to my everyday teaching and the children respond by showing good behaviour for learning.” Teacher
Voices Foundation’s Singing Schools noticed that their participation in the CPD programme was resulting in benefits for their pupils. An increase in confidence in singing, musical activities and performances were seen, as well as an improvement in wellbeing, behaviour for learning, teamwork, peer relationships and listening.
“This is amazing for our pupils, this is great for mental health and wellbeing of all. Children are happiest when singing together.” Teacher
The survey results from the mid-term will be used to inform future reports and the development of an improved CPD programme for Voices Foundation's Singing Schools.
Voices Foundation has been working alongside teachers and school communities since 1993 to transform music education, supporting children’s wider skill development and wellbeing through accessible and inclusive singing programmes. We provide Continuing Professional Development and Learning for educators, inspiring content for parents and in-depth research and evaluation.
Press contact
George Ofori: George.ofori@voices.org.uk