Charity fills gap left by NSW schools with no primary music teachers
NSW public primary schools don't have dedicated music teachers. A charity now runs weekly music sessions with instruments for disadvantaged schools.
Year 6 student Cooper Hamilton-Riley says drums help him focus and feel stronger about his Biripi culture. Taree Public School runs once-a-week music lessons with the Australian Children's Music Foundation.
NSW public schools don't have music teachers before year 7. The absence leaves a gap in the primary years.
The charity provides instruments and sessions. Money comes from donations and fundraising.
At Kempsey South Public School, attendance rose 13.6 per cent between 2022 and 2024. Kids report greater confidence and cultural pride.
The NSW government has announced 30 recommendations for music education over the next decade.
- Once-a-week sessions at primary schools
- Music program start
- 13.6 percent between 2022 and 2024
- Attendance increase at Kempsey South
- 30 over 10 years, 2025 to 2035
- Government recommendations
- Australian Children's Music Foundation
- Organization
Why it mattersEarly music education helps with attendance, confidence and cultural connection. Many kids never get it without outside help.
AustraliaThousands of NSW primary students now have access to music education they wouldn't otherwise receive, improving both attendance and wellbeing.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 12 d ago
