SMILE: Strategies for Musicians and teachers in Learning-difficulties Education

SMILE is a collaborative project between the University of York, the University of Roehampton, and Live Music Now, and funded by SEMPRE and Paul Hamlyn Foundation. We know that music is a powerful means of self-expression and communication, especially for pupils with the most complex needs; however, these pupils often have inconsistent access to regular, high-quality music learning opportunities. Class teachers and TAs tend to spend the most time with their pupils in school and know them the best, so they are well-placed to be able to facilitate musical activities with their pupils; however, they may not feel they have the specific music facilitation skills or confidence to take full advantage of these opportunities.

The SMILE project seeks to bring more frequent high-quality musical opportunities to children with complex needs through supporting non-music-specialist staff in special schools. Working closely with special school staff and music leaders, we will develop a pedagogical approach and a prototype for a new free online resource to support non-music-specialist teachers in acquiring the skills and confidence to facilitate meaningful music learning activities with their pupils.