Four primary schools within Shireland Collegiate Academy Trust – Newfield Park Primary Academy, Wallbrook Primary Academy, Shireland Technology Primary and Holyhead Primary Academy – have been awarded Music Mark status for the 2025-26 academic year.
The award celebrates their collective commitment to high-quality, inclusive music education that inspires creativity, confidence and a lifelong love of the music.
Creative arts play a central role across the Trust’s 12 academies, forming a key part of the curriculum, with music at the heart of the primary school experience. Pupils participate in weekly musical tuition, choir sessions and a variety of cross-curricular activities, developing practical skills while exploring the wider benefits of music across their learning.
Specialist support is provided through partnerships with Dudley Performing Arts, Sandwell Music and Arts Service (SIPS), the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra (CBSO) and the Black Country Music Hub. These collaborations offer tuition, workshops and large-scale projects, giving pupils access to a broad range of unique musical opportunities and experiences.
Pupils across the four primary schools regularly take part in school and community performances, including the Young Voices concert. They also engage in regional projects such as the Dudley Harmony Project, which promotes children’s mental health and wellbeing.
Sir Mark Grundy, CEO at Shireland Collegiate Academy Trust, commented: “As a Trust, we believe the arts are at the heart of a well-rounded education. Music gives our pupils more than the chance to play and instrument or sing – it teaches focus, empathy, discipline and teamwork.
“The confidence, creativity and pride they gain enriches all areas of their learning and stays with them long after they leave school. That is why we are committed to ensuring every child across the Trust can access high-quality creative experiences.”
Music education continues to play a central role across the Trust’s secondary schools, which offer further unique opportunities. At the forefront is Shireland CBSO Academy, established in partnership with the CBSO in 2023, which provides free instrumental or vocal tuition or all students, alongside performance and music technology pathways at post-16. This creates a clear progression route from primary through to sixth form, enabling learners to develop their musical talents at every stage of their education.
The Music Mark award, founded in 2013, recognises schools and organisations that provide accessible, inclusive and high-quality music education for all children, regardless of experience. The recognition of Newfield Park Primary Academy, Wallbrook Primary Academy, Shireland Technology Primary and Holyhead Primary Academy highlights the Trust’s dedication to embedding enriching musical experiences that support both personal and academic development.
This achievement reflects a shared commitment across the Trust to nurture young musicians, celebrate talent, and ensure that music and the wider creative arts remain a core part of school life.
