High School Network Meeting 2: Progression and Pathways – KS3 to KS4

How do we help more pupils see music as a subject they can continue with confidently beyond KS3?

This second High School Network Meeting will focus on progression and pathways from KS3 into KS4, exploring how schools can strengthen the journey into GCSE, BTEC and other sustained forms of musical study.

The session will consider some of the common barriers that can affect progression, including confidence, curriculum design, perceptions of difficulty and access to the right musical experiences. It will also look at practical ways schools can make progressions routes clearer, more inclusive and more attractive to a wider range of pupils.

Alongside professional discussion and shared practice, the session will provide teachers with useful ideas around curriculum planning, pathway design, recruitment and supporting pupils to make informed choices about continuing with music.

This meeting builds directly on the first session around KS3 engagement and participation, moving the conversation on to the crucial question of how we turn that engagement into sustained progression at KS4.

The aim is for colleagues to leave with practical strategies, greater clarity around progression routes and fresh ideas for strengthening uptake and retention in music.