Music teachers the world over – from instrument and vocal tutors to non-specialist primary school teachers – are to be connected in a landmark initiative designed to inspire, support and champion their skills to create a global community of music teaching peers.
The Teacher Hub – an online platform for everyone involved in teaching music – will promote professionalisation of music teaching in all contexts through free resources and new Continuous Professional Development (CPD) for all levels of music teaching.
The Teacher Hub has been developed by ABRSM and builds on its record of supporting music teachers. It will launch with four CPD accredited courses developed by some of the world’s most experienced music educators. The four courses include a free eight-hour course showing teachers at all levels how to reflect on their practice, strengthen teaching skills and develop professional support networks.
The Teacher Hub is divided into three user-friendly areas: courses; chat and collaborate; and community resources, and will feature new content every month, with regularly updated resources including films, podcasts and blogs by experts.
Teachers visiting www.abrsm.org/teacherhub will be able to access some material immediately and see forum comments and then reach other areas and take part in discussions once they have completed free registration.
ABRSM Teacher Development Manager Hilary Smethurst-Evans said: “We know from our own experience of working across the UK and far beyond that there is a real need for professional development opportunities amongst all music teachers – whether they are instrument/vocal tutors or primary school teachers who wish to extend their knowledge and improve their skills.
“We know, too, that people teaching music often feel isolated because of the nature of their work. The Teacher Hub is a major investment which we hope will help address these needs by providing a wide range of free and paid for CPD opportunities and a platform where they can come together, share experiences and be – and feel – part of a global community.
“Above all, it is about championing the skills and achievements of people who inspire whole generations of musicians, recognising their passion and the support that they need – not just to keep doing it, but to grow.”
Teachers trialling the Hub have given it an overwhelming welcome, with 90% of them saying they would recommend use of the platform to others.
