Going forward, the service will be known as Bexley Music and located on the premises of Belmont Academy (DA8 1LE).
All existing staff and music teachers will be joining the Trust and the delivery of music programmes within and outside of schools, as well as partnership projects, will continue.
Bexley Music will remain the official music provider for the Borough and the lead organisation for the Bexley Music Education Hub. As such, it will continue to receive funding from the Department for Education via Arts Council England.
CEO of London South East Academies Trust, Dr Sam Parrett OBE, says: “We are committed to ensuring the continuation of the fantastic music services that Bird College has been providing. We value music across all our settings and understand the great importance of making music fully accessible to all children.
“As an organisation, we focus on adding value to our communities, beyond just the delivery of qualifications. Bexley Music will very much be part of our social value strategy over the coming years; we look forward to working with all our stakeholders to secure excellent music provision as part of this.”
London South East Academies Trust comprises eight schools across Bexley and Bromley, providing education for primary and secondary age children – including mainstream, special and alternative provision.
The Trust forms part of London & South East Education Group which includes London South East Colleges (a further and higher education college with eight campuses across the region) and London Skills for Growth (an apprenticeship provider).
Julie Stanning has transferred from Bird College and will continue to lead the service as Head of Bexley Music, supported by Madelaine Caplin on behalf of the Trust. Julie says: “This transfer marks a new and exciting chapter for Bexley Music, securing its future and extending its reach – enabling us to help more people access high quality music education.
“We will continue to build on our excellent reputation and look forward to working with schools, parents, children and the wider community to strengthen, expand and diversify the outstanding services already on offer.”
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