The Music Education Code of Practice

The Music Education Code of Practice helps to ensure music practitioners provide high quality music making and learning experiences for the people they work with. The Code does this by providing a set of quality statements concerning all aspects of music learning.

By adopting the Code, practitioners demonstrate their commitment to quality work. By using the Code as a benchmark, employers and hirers of practitioners demonstrate their commitment to requiring high-quality practice of those who work for them.

For more information visit www.musicleader.net.

These individual commitments underpin good practice across the music education sector.

Be well prepared and organised

• I will work effectively by having specialist knowledge and skills.
• I negotiate with contractors and employers the aims, objectives and desired outcomes for the work and maintain communication for the duration of the project.
• I understand the context of a programme or project to ensure the success of the activity for the participants.
• I adopt the appropriate attitude, behaviour and dress code.
• I manage my time effectively starting and finishing as planned and agreed.
• I am aware of the support I may need and request help when necessary.
• I keep up to date with all relevant paperwork, such as course planning documents, hand-outs, evaluation forms, invoices and budgets.
• I charge appropriately for my services.

Be safe and responsible

• I take reasonable steps to ensure the safety of everyone in my care, especially children and vulnerable adults.
• I ensure that the activity is adequately insured.
• I ensure risk assessments are carried out and manage risks accordingly.
• I understand the contractor's policies, routines and procedures e.g. child protection / equal opportunities / behaviour management / data protection.
• I provide references for my work and a Criminal Records Bureau disclosure where necessary.

Have appropriate musical skills

• I ensure that the level of skills, knowledge and understanding are sufficient to undertake the work I am doing.
• I can demonstrate musical expertise, creativity and versatility.
• I have appropriate musical resources to be able to adapt and react to changing circumstances.

Work well with people

• I value all participants and treat them with respect.
• I am sensitive and responsive to both group and individual dynamics.
• I motivate and inspire participants.
• I lead high quality and enjoyable music experiences.
• I am friendly, approachable and professional in my manner.

Evaluate and reflect on my work

• I collect monitoring data for contractors and employers as required.
• I collect feedback from contractors, employers and participants.
• I reflect on my work and learn lessons for improved performance in the future.

Commit to professional development

• I improve and update my skills, knowledge and creativity through regular training, personal reflection and membership of professional bodies.
• I maintain my professional portfolio and CV.