We are thrilled to share the news that the Australian Government has announced continued funding to the AYO, for the National Music Teacher Mentoring Program. This will ensure our national coordination will continue for a further four years.
Kimbali Harding, CEO of the Australian Youth Orchestra says “the Federal Government has supported the program since it was established in 2015 through the vision of founder and inspirational musician and educator, the late Richard Gill AO. We are grateful for this continued support, as we strive to ensure all Australian children have access to high quality music education.”
The NMTMP partners with educational jurisdictions, including the NSW Department of Education, the Victorian Department of Education, the Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools and ASME Western Australia. Together they identify leading music teachers, who are provided unique professional development as mentors, and paired with classroom primary teachers.
Says National Manager, Bernie Heard “with four years confirmed funding for our National operations, we look forward to developing new and relevant resources, conducting meaningful research, and most especially having the capacity to reach more teachers, and ultimately have a greater impact for Australian students. We have transformed our program and are ready to scale, and now welcome the opportunity to speak with educational leaders and supporters in all states and territories to build new partnerships.”
“As new research is emerging through the Tony Foundation’s Music Education Initiative, and the sector unites to advocate for greater awareness of the value of music education, now is the time for us to have a lead role in a multifaceted approach to address the urgent issue of providing access for all Australian children to quality music education.”
For more information about the National Music Teacher Mentoring Program, visit our website musicinme.au or email mentoring@ayo.com.au
