Secondary music teachers came together at the University of Sussex on Thursday 18 June for the Sussex Secondary Music Conference 2026, a day of professional development, collaboration and discussion focused on the future of music education.
Delivered in partnership by the University of Sussex and Sussex Music Hub, incorporating West Sussex Music and Create Music, the conference welcomed teachers from across West Sussex, East Sussex and Brighton & Hove to explore the theme Redefining Music’s Place in the Curriculum: Empowering Inclusive Musical Learning.
The day featured a keynote address from Professor Robin Banerjee, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Global and Civic Engagement and Professor of Developmental Psychology at the University of Sussex, who shared research highlighting the positive impact of music participation on young people’s wellbeing, attainment and social development.
Teachers also took part in a wide range of practical workshops and discussions covering topics including inclusive classroom practice, music technology, composition, GCSE music recruitment and retention, classroom singing, wellbeing, and support for early career teachers.
The conference provided valuable opportunities for networking and the sharing of ideas, enabling teachers to learn from one another and explore new approaches to engaging young people in music.
James Underwood, Chief Executive of West Sussex Music, said, “The Sussex Secondary Music Conference demonstrates the strength of partnership working across our region and our shared commitment to supporting music teachers. By bringing colleagues together to share expertise, ideas and best practice, we can help ensure that every young person has access to a high-quality music education and the opportunity to thrive through music.”
The event formed part of Sussex Music Hub’s ongoing commitment to supporting schools and teachers through high-quality professional development and collaboration, helping to strengthen music education across the county and beyond.
The Primary and SEND Music Conference, organised by West Sussex Music, takes place on Thursday 9 July at Haywards Heath College. Some places are still available and can be booked here.
