Nominated for Music Mark 2026 Unsung Hero in Music Education

We are delighted to have been nominated for this award. Please read below the reasons for our nomination, as written by Ruth O'Keefe, Head of Service for Trafford Music Service

St Mary's places music at the heart of school life, creating a culture in which children’s lives are enriched through a wide range of musical experiences and opportunities. Music is valued, celebrated and championed throughout the school, with strong support from staff, pupils and families alike.

 Despite being a single-form entry school, St Mary's boasts an exceptionally large choir led by the Headteacher and Deputy Headteacher, demonstrating their genuine passion for and commitment to music education.

 Instrumental learning is thriving, with 31 pupils currently receiving weekly lessons in guitar, ukulele, piano and violin. This means that around one in every six pupils in the school is learning a musical instrument in a one-to-one or group setting.

 The school is also committed to ensuring that music is accessible to all. Through our Wider Opportunities programme, two whole classes each year enjoy the experience of learning an instrument within a ten-week project, giving every child the chance to participate regardless of their financial circumstances.

 St Mary's are consistently among the first schools to embrace the workshops, projects and opportunities offered by Trafford Music Service. Children have benefited from a diverse range of experiences, including infant music workshops, Black History Month workshops, harp demonstrations and music technology clubs, to name just a few.

 Performance is a key part of musical life at St Mary's. Instrumentalists are given regular opportunities to showcase their progress and achievements, performing for both the whole school and parents three times each year. The school also enthusiastically engages with wider musical opportunities across Trafford, including participation in singing festivals and other off-site events.

 A particular highlight of the school calendar is the annual Arts Festival, a wonderful celebration of creativity and talent. The event brings together choir performances, instrumental music, dance and visual art, providing a platform for children to share and celebrate their achievements.

 St Mary's does far more than simply support music; it embraces its transformative power in every corner of school life. The unwavering commitment shown by senior leaders ensures that music remains a vibrant and valued part of the curriculum and wider school experience. The school is a pleasure to work with, and most importantly, its children are given the very best opportunity to develop a lifelong appreciation of music, whether as performers, creators or enthusiastic listeners.

Whole School Overview

• Music long term plan

Music Policy

• Music policy

Music in EYFS

What does Music look like in EYFS?

Music Progression of Skills in EYFS

Music development plan

• Music development plan