SA gives early years music education a $7 million boost

The South Australian Government is injecting $7 million into a new music education strategy aimed at strengthening and expanding the quality of music education across South Australian early childhood services, preschools and primary schools.

The strategy will deliver a 10-year vision, focusing on the value of music education and the benefits to children.

The state government said that $500,000 will also be invested into a new music innovation fund, which will be applied to education priorities ranging from new music equipment through to sponsoring innovative approaches to music education.

To support this vision, professional development placements will be made available each year for early years educators and generalist primary school teachers so they can confidently integrate music into learning.

Australian music education expert Dr Anita Collins, Adelaide Symphony Orchestra’s Vince Ciccarello, and the Elder Conservatorium’s Graeme Koehne have supported the department to develop the strategy.

South Australian Education Minister John Gardener said “There is now significant evidence that music education supports brain development in children and young people.

“This strategy aims to provide many opportunities for children and young people across South Australia, particularly those who currently have limited access to specialist music education, to improve on literacy and language skills, build confidence and develop emotional and behavioural awareness.”

The government said that the strategy was informed by research and consultation with external music education partners and associations, with more than 800 surveys completed by parents, students and community members.

For more information, visit the South Australian Department of Education Music Education Strategy website.