For the third year running, the Harris Foundation for Lifelong Learning and Music for All have joined forces to help give schoolchildren extra opportunities to make music.
Whether playing instruments in the classroom or taking part in school performances, music-making offers students a host of benefits. These range from academic to social and emotional. While many schools recognise the value of music, there is often limited funding available. The Harris Foundation Schools Progression Award seeks to help. Schools can apply now for the chance to receive a grant to enhance their music provision.
The Harris Foundation Award
The Harris Foundation Schools Progression Award was launched in 2023 to help schools provide additional opportunities for music-making and to support their music groups. A grant of up to £5,000 is available to support any type of ensemble, ranging from formal bands or orchestras to informal groups. The funds must be put towards the purchase of instruments, studio equipment, specialised teaching support or other items specifically designed to facilitate the set-up or continuation of music groups.
Supporting self-expression and communication
Recipients of last year’s award have been putting their grant money to good use in a wide variety of ways. Eight schools were awarded a grant, including three primary schools, two secondary schools and three special educational needs schools.
Moor House School and College was one of the recipients of the 2024 award. Music is becoming increasingly important at the school. Many of their students have Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) and music offers an outlet for self-expression and communication. Following refurbishment of their old music room, the school used their grant to purchase new instruments – primarily handheld percussion – and teaching materials. The instruments are now being used to improve group lessons, add a signing choir, and for after school clubs and performances.
Applying for the award
Schools across the UK are invited to consider applying now for the Harris Foundation Schools Progression Award. The latest funding round is currently open and will be closing at 11.59pm on 27 June 2025. Further rounds will be available later in the year. For more details and to apply, visit Music for All’s online application page.