10 - Preparatory Schools

Summary

Prep school music-making varies according to the size of the school, and also depends on the value placed on music by the Head. School music departments often have to compete with a thriving sports department, and there can be inevitable clashes between sports fixtures and music events. This illuminates the need for good relations between the two departments. The New Beacon has enjoyed a long tradition of excellence in both music and sport, and has had the good fortune of being supported by past and present headmasters who have held a strong belief in encouraging enjoyment and excellence in both areas. The New Beacon is a fee-paying preparatory school for boys, located on the rural outskirts of Sevenoaks, Kent. The school caters both for day-boys and weekly boarders (Monday to Thursday), from Reception to Year 8 (ages 4–13). Currently there are about 400 pupils.

The Prep School Music Department

Most music departments in prep schools have a Director or Head of Music. Depending on the size of the school, and whether the school has a pre-prep department including nursery provision, the Director of Music will be supported by an Assistant Director, and in some cases further staff too. Traditionally, the Director of Music will oversee the running of the department, and this will include organising a group of visiting instrumental, or peripatetic, music teachers to teach individual music lessons.