It’s been another fantastic day on the music course, filled with vibrant singing, engaging conducting sessions, and insightful discussions around teaching methodology. It’s exciting to see such strong progress and connection so early on.

We usually write about all the music, sessions and activities that happen at Summer School, but today we decided to introduce you to some of the lovely people who are joining us this year. I sat down to have a chat with Jason and Jane at lunchtime today.

Jason

Jason first came to Summer School around 8 years ago, when we were based in Nottingham. He attended 3 Summer Schools before the pandemic, completing the Certificate Level 1 course and has returned this year after a few years away. He told me that, since his last Summer School, he has found that the skills and knowledge learned with the BKA have been transformative to his teaching practice at his Prep School. 

"Since applying everything I've learned to my school lessons, it has had such an impact [on the pupils] that my leadership team now use the Music Department to 'sell' our school to prospective parents."

I asked Jason why he had decided to come back to Summer School this year. He told me that he wanted to return to recharge and re-engage before returning to a new school year. 

"On a personal level, I wanted to improve my own musicianship. It's easy to forget about ourselves in our job, when we're focused on what we give to the children."

Jason leads choirs at his school, but told me he has no time to be in a choir himself. He loves being part of both the choirs at Summer School and finds he's able to enjoy singing together with others.

 

---

Jane

Since joining us for the first time last year, when she completed the Foundation Certificate, Jane has chosen to return this year to complete Primary Level 1 of our BKA Certificate of Professional Practice. 

"I found what I learned [during the Foundation Certificate] was really useful to my teaching. I've implemented it across my school [in Wales], and we've seen a massive improvement both in class and in instrumental lessons."

She told me how other schools in her area are interested in what she has been doing, and she's returned to Summer School to further her own skills and knowledge.

"There aren't many options for Music CPD, especially for teaching music in a school, and what the BKA offers is really unique."

Jane was one of the first students to complete the Primary 1 Certificate through our new hybrid model—starting with online sessions before Summer School, followed by in-person learning and assessments during the week together. She shared that she found the experience much easier and more enjoyable after getting to know her fellow students and having time to learn the methodology beforehand.

---

It’s been great getting to know Jane and Jason as they settle into the course. We’re really looking forward to seeing where their journeys go – and the same goes for everyone who’s joined us this year. It’s been great watching people settle in, share ideas, and start building their confidence. There’s already so much potential in the group, and we’re excited to see what’s next.