Reed Raises Profile of Dance & Music in Schools

Andy Reed MP has given his support to promoting the benefits of music and dance in schools. ‘Inspiring Learning’ is a joint project between the county’s Arts in Education & Special Educational Needs Support Unit. The project seeks to build self –esteem and confidence through music and dance and recently completed a spell at Water Leys Primary School in Leicestershire. As part of the project Music and Dance specialist teachers worked alongside the pupils’ teaching assistant. This was a new venture for the school and by the time the project had ended the teaching assistant was confident enough to lead a session herself.

Following representations by several of his Loughborough constituents, Reed has contacted Lord Andrew Adonis, the new Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Schools with a view to obtaining national recognition for the work that has been undertaken in Leicestershire.

Reed stated “the work undertaken by teachers and students is a tremendous achievement”. He added “I hope that in the near future schools throughout the country will feel able to embark upon similar projects”.

One of Reed’s constituents John Tillotson was Arts Director and Videographer for the project. He made a DVD guide and teaching handbook available and launched this at three conferences in Leicestershire during May. Mr Tillotson commented “the project was unique and rewarding and it was really encouraging to see the enthusiasm and commitment of the children”.