Newfield Park Primary Academy in Halesowen has been recognised during a visit by local MP, Alex Ballinger, who met staff and pupils to congratulate them on achieving Music Mark status for 2025-26.
The school has now received the national award for a second consecutive year, recognising its commitment to high-quality, inclusive music education for all pupils.
Established in 2013, the Music Mark Award recognises education settings demonstrating a strong commitment to accessible and progressive music provision. It highlights schools where music is embedded across the curriculum and made available to children of all abilities.
During his visit, the MP met pupils and staff and spoke with them about the school’s music provision, including the range of activities and events pupils take part in, recognising the school’s work and its engagement with the wider community.
Music plays a central role in school life at Newfield Park Primary Academy, with pupils taking part in weekly lessons, singing assemblies and cross-curricular learning linked to creative activities. The school also works with Dudley Performing Arts, which provides specialist tuition in piano, guitar and drums, and leads choir rehearsals.
School Principal, Steve Payne, said: “We were delighted to welcome MP Alex Ballinger to the Academy and to share the enthusiasm our pupils have for music across the school. Opportunities to learn an instrument, sing together and perform are an important part of daily life, and it was wonderful for our children to see their work being recognised within the wider community.
“It also reflects the importance of creative education in primary schools and the role it plays in enriching pupils’ experiences.”
The school said the visit highlighted the wider role schools can play in their communities, particularly through engagement with creative subjects that support confidence and wellbeing.
