It’s 5 years since I left my role leading partnerships at The King’s School, Canterbury to focus on building Astin Consulting. But it was a joy to be back this week for two very contrasting concerts:
Last night, the pinnacle of the school’s musical talent entertained us in an ambitious programme of concerto movements and a symphony (Tchaikovsky 5 no less!) under the inspiring baton of the Director of Music, Will Bersey.
And on Saturday, a concert from children participating in the school’s music partnership programme, Sounding Out. Now approaching its 4th year (since resuming after covid) there is a whole generation of children aged 9-12 in Canterbury who are learning an orchestral instrument and having musicianship classes too. Seeing them perform in groups and then together alongside King’s students in a brilliant mash-up of Peter and the Wolf by the amazing Annalise Roy was extremely moving. This is exactly the vision which Will and I had when we conceived the project 7 years ago.
The contrast between the two events was stark. The privilege gap between those with such a rich musical education and none is humbling. But Sounding Out is not only closing that gap for children in local schools in Canterbury. It is also bringing a valuable perspective to the King’s students playing alongside them, and helping to break down stereotypes in the city.
I was asked at the concert last night whether independent schools are reining in their community or cross-sector partnerships programmes as a result of VAT-related budget constraints. Yes, for sure, some are. But those schools that see partnerships not as a drain on resources, as some sort of charitable outreach, but rather what they and their students gain, are not. In fact, some are expanding their collaborations – for the educational advantage it brings to their offer.
Schools that adopt a strategic approach (built-in not bolt-on) which aligns with school values are more likely to make an impact within the resources available, as this article I wrote for ISC sets out.
Where to start? Have a look at our Leading Partnerships course. 5% discount until 31 July.
