By Mrs Emma Molloy, Head of Music
Every day in the music department at The Webber Independent School, I see something remarkable: the spark that lights up in a child when they discover their voice, their rhythm, or their first harmony. Whether it’s the joy of a Prep pupil mastering a rhythm on the xylophone, the pride of our GCSE musicians composing original pieces, or our Senior ensembles performing with confidence and flair – the arts don’t just enrich education here – they transform it.
Across the UK, music and arts education face real challenges. In state schools, declining budgets, fewer specialist teachers and the impact of measures like the English Baccalaureate have contributed to a dramatic drop in arts participation. Between 2010 and 2023, GCSE music entries fell by around 30%, with A Level music down even more sharply, and many schools entering no pupils for music qualifications at all. These trends have sparked national conversations about creativity and opportunity.
But here at Webber, we are incredibly proud to buck that trend. Music and the arts are central to our culture and to our curriculum, not add-ons or extras.
From Prep to Senior, Creativity Thrives
In Prep, every child experiences joyful music-making – it’s part of how we help young learners grow in confidence, coordination, and self-expression. Prep students are taught to play recorders, a range of tuned percussion instruments, ukuleles and experience performing African drumming and Samba. Throughout KS3 students are exposed to music from different countries, develop their keyboard skills and compose music using a range of technology to support their composition. Our GCSE Music curriculum is thoughtfully designed to cultivate performing, composing, and listening skills, inspiring students to think critically and creatively about sound, culture and identity.
Our ensembles, including Senior Choirs, Rock Band, String Groups and performance opportunities allow students to take risks, collaborate and shine. These arts experiences build resilience, teamwork and communication skills that are as valuable in life as they are in examinations.
At The Webber we are proud to offer our students the opportunity to learn instruments with inspirational visiting teachers. Our outstanding offer includes Singing, Strings, Piano, Drums, Guitar and Woodwind lessons.
Why It Matters Now
Nationwide, music hubs and initiatives like the recent BBC Get Singing project are helping re-energise music education across the UK, offering exciting, accessible resources for schools and communities. And research – both here and overseas – repeatedly shows that music participation boosts confidence, emotional intelligence, and academic engagement.
At Webber, we see this every week. Students who once felt shy find their voice in a choir. Those who struggle in other areas thrive when composing a piece or mastering an instrument. The arts level the playing field – giving every child a chance to excel in something meaningful.
A Whole School, Whole Child Approach
Our commitment to music and the arts aligns with the broader Webber experience: an education that celebrates curiosity and creativity just as much as academic achievement. In a world where analytical skills are rightly prized, creative confidence is equally essential – and at Webber it’s nurtured, not neglected.
If you’re seeking a school where your child can develop as a musician, creator, performer – and confident young person — I’d encourage you to explore what The Webber can offer. From bespoke instrumental tuition to vibrant ensembles and performance platforms, our music and arts programmes help shape well-rounded, expressive young people ready to meet the world with talent and courage.
