The DfE states in their National Plan for Music Education that to support children with learning an instrument, primary schools should offer group instrumental teaching programmes in class time – we call this First Access.
We believe that First Access programmes are a key part of the curricular music offer and should not be viewed as a bolt-on activity, or external to the music curriculum.
Our vision for the First Access programme is that it acts as a route into instrumental learning for your students, having experienced the fun and enjoyment of learning with their friends.
In 2025-26, we will continue to subsidise First Access provision for one year group in primary phase schools with options available to suit each school’s needs. We know that better musical progress is achieved when students learn for longer, so our whole year option provides the best value for your school.
Where instruments are needed, class sets are hired to your school for a termly fee. This termly fee covers all delivery and collection costs. As part of the hire, we will replace instruments that need repair, subject to availability.
All offers of First Access projects are subject to staff and instrument availability.
- One term programme: £415.80 per class, up to 11 sessions.
- Whole year programme: £1,188 per class, up to 33 sessions.
- Instrument hire: £54 per term, per set.
Please discuss the options below with your regional team in the first instance:
Whole Class Lessons
- Students learn an instrument together as a whole class
- Each whole class session will last 45 minutes per class
- The HMS teacher will work with your school to create at least one performance or presentation opportunity for the students to share their new skills
- Assistance in monitoring each pupil’s musical progress throughout the year will be offered to the class teacher/s
Small Group Lessons
- Limited to one academic term
- Students learn in groups of 6-8
- An HMS teacher will deliver 5 sessions per small group
- As this option is more flexible, students may have the option to choose between 2 or more different instruments
- If students want to continue lessons, the parent/carer books and pays for lessons directly with HMS.
- Students eligible for FSM can apply for financial support for lessons
Resource Support
- A good choice if your school has an experienced music teacher on staff
- A class set of instruments is hired to your school.
Your school can support the First Access programme by:
- Providing a suitable teaching space
- Monitoring the safe use and storage of musical instruments
- Creating performance opportunities
Can I book First Access sessions for additional year groups?
Yes, however these sessions will not be eligible for any subsidy. The fee for additional First Access classes is £594 per term, per class for up to 11 sessions.
Instrument sets can be hired for £54 per term, subject to availability.
I have two classes in each year group, how does this work?
Where a larger school has more than 1 class per year group, all the classes in your selected year group are eligible for the subsidised fee.
If more than one set of instruments are required, each set will be charged for at £54 per term, per set.