The Music in Secondary Schools Trust

The Music in Secondary Schools Trust (MiSST) is a UK-based charitable organization focused on enhancing classical music education within disadvantaged and challenging secondary schools. Registered as a Charitable Incorporated Organisation with charity number 1151662, MiSST aims to ensure every student entering secondary education has access to classical music learning opportunities.

Mission and Activities

MiSST's primary mission is to be at the forefront of classical music education in secondary schools that face social and economic challenges. The Trust provides funding that enables all Year 7 students in participating schools to receive a classical musical instrument, paired with regular group tuition and multiple performance opportunities. The initiative also focuses on improving the quality of music teaching, learning, and leadership through high-quality staff training. This approach is geared towards equipping students with musical skills and fostering a lifelong appreciation for music[1][2].

History and Funding

The Trust was established with initial funding from notable organizations including the Andrew Lloyd Webber Foundation and the Charles Wolfson Trust. These partnerships underscore a commitment to making classical music education universally accessible regardless of students' socio-economic backgrounds. MiSST’s funding model includes donations, charitable activities, government grants, and investment income, allowing it to support its programmes sustainably[3][1].

Programme Impact

Schools participating in the MiSST programme receive support that includes whole-class or group instrumental tuition, opportunities for solo and ensemble performances, music technology and composition classes, and vocal training. Each student is given an instrument to keep for at least three years, which encourages practice and musical development outside the classroom. Headteachers and educators have reported transformational impacts on schools’ music education standards and student engagement, leading to improved academic and personal outcomes for pupils[5][1].

Finances

For the financial year ending 31 March 2024, MiSST reported a total income of approximately £1.4 million, primarily from charitable activities and donations. Expenditure was similarly focused on charitable activities, with funds allocated to sustain and grow its educational programmes[1].

This comprehensive model positions The Music in Secondary Schools Trust as a leading advocate for classical music education in the UK, helping to level the playing field for disadvantaged students through sustained access to resources, instruction, and performance experiences.

[1] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/5036331 [2] https://www.misst.org.uk [3] https://andrewlloydwebberfoundation.com/content/music-in-secondary-schools-trust [4] https://nordlei.org/lei/894500CG248BP3RTKK40/the-music-in-secondary-schools-trust [5] https://www.sedgehillacademy.org.uk/Portals/0/adam/Content/qRqyH48kPEqe0J2mkJ0Kdw/Link/MiSST%20ALWP%20Curriculum%20document%20(1).pdf