SUPPORTING MUSIC EDUCATORS – Pathways Into Music

THE EDUCATOR PATHWAY PROGRAMME

Pathways Into Music offers a professional development programme for music educators that provides teachers, tutors and lecturers, and people working for music education hubs and talent development, community music and youth organisations, with access to the latest insights about music careers and the music business.

We map the different career pathways in music, for both those making music and those working in the industry. We explain what early-career music-makers need to know about music rights and fanbase building in order to embark on a frontline artist career. And we explain what is involved in releasing new music to streaming services.

This programme is for anyone involved in educating or supporting young people making music from key stage three (aged eleven) or above.

That includes: music teachers, instrument tutors, and FE and HE lecturers, plus people working for education hubs and music services, and talent development, community music and youth organisations.

We run a two-day national version of this programme each autumn, and one-day versions with regional partners throughout the year. To discuss hosting an edition contact info@pathwaysintomusic.com

UPCOMING PROGRAMMES

Educator Pathway Day Sussex 2026 | CLICK HERE
Friday 13 November 2026

The Educator Pathway Programme is funded by Arts Council England.

Past editions have also been supported by Belfast City Of Music, Berkshire Music Trust, BIMM Music Institute, RSL, Southampton & IOW Music, Turner Sims, University Of Reading and University Of Southampton.

If you would like to discuss getting involved in supporting this work, please get in touch at info@pathwaysintomusic.com

Testimonials from previous participants in the Educator Pathway Programme…

“The Pathways Into Music programme has been an inspirational and transformative course that has supported me to guide our participants and partners more effectively. I now feel equipped with the knowledge and tools to support and encourage the dreams and aspirations of young people, having gained significant confidence in this field. The course was expertly led by Phil and Chris, who have the passion, insight and creativity to inform the wider pursuit of music industry careers”.
Alison Brain, Norfolk Music Hub

“The Pathways Into Music event was really inspiring, it was a great opportunity to hear from knowledgeable and engaging speakers and meet so many different people from across the sector. In my role it can be really challenging to demonstrate to young people and parents/carers the benefits of studying music at university and the career options available to them. I’ll definitely be incorporating what I’ve learnt from this event into our Leeds Futures – Music outreach event next year. I also have an upcoming meeting with our careers team to pass on my newfound knowledge to them so we can share with our current students and staff”.
Alex Peel, University Of Leeds

“Working at a commercial recording studio, the Pathways weekend gave me the understanding far more precisely exactly where we, and our clients, fit within the music industry – and how our education wing fits within that framework. For the first time, the blend within one conference of real-time data and real-world professionals was managed to the benefit of everyone present. Both Phil and Chris were able to respond immediately to suggestions from the room and tailor the content to the people present”.
John Merriman, Crown Lane Studio

“As an educator, songwriter and composer, the sessions helped cement my confidence with what I do already, but also opened my eyes and ears to so much more! The youngsters I educate are already blessed to have access to a music careers display board in class – with QR codes ready for them to scan, which encourage them to explore different pathways and question how they could get there – but Chris, Phil and the participants opened my mind to more that I can do, to ignite increased discussions in class and help them become more equipped and aware – before they dive in and get caught out”.
Scott Welcomme, Ferndown Middle School

“A truly wonderful weekend discussing so many important topics. Phil and Chris shared such valuable information, made us feel welcome, kept the attendees uplifted, engaged and interested with their stories of experience in the industry. A truly memorable weekend, followed by hugely interesting online webinars. Fabulous venue choice, lovely delegates and overall would love to attend more events”.
Lowri Williams, Grazity

“The Pathways weekend was both enlivening and exhausting, with so much new information to absorb as Phil and Chris talked through the scaffolding of, and systems within, the current music industry, as well as intense reflection and discussion with colleagues. Many lightbulb moments, resource recommendations and sharing of ideas with a knowledgeable and experienced cohort of colleagues. The only negative is that the ‘to do’ list for new hubs and the wider workforce is even longer than before, but we’ve made start”.
Clair Mccoll, Dorset Music Service