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One of the things in education that I think is super important is to have outlets for creativity. This can often be built into project work with specific crafts etc but I’ve always been keen to give my own children exposure to music and having that area as a creative outlet. We are incredibly lucky that one of our neighbours is a musis teacher and the children are all progresing well with their learning with the boys learning clarinet and Em the flute. All three have passed various grading exams and continue to work toward the next stage.
The arts, and all that they bring, are vital I feel for living a full and vibrant life. We have all enjoyed singing and dancing to songs, been moved by the word of those that have played at those poignant moments in life, and of course we have all laughed and cried and enjoyed films, programmes and theatre.
Music is a great way to engage learners who might be struggling in more formal methods of education. Everyone can engage with music and it is a wonderful outlet in so many ways.
I was interested to be contacted by Music Technology Club who are launching a Home Education specific group. This will be an online programme run in the daytime for ages 11-16 and they are running a free session on 21st October 2025 – this can be accessed here.
Who are Music Technology Club?
Music Technology Club is a national online programme for children aged 11-16 that has both accredited and non-accredited pathways, allowing children to explore the subject at their own pace but at the same time offering a structure for those that want formal recognition of their work.
Music Technology Club was founded by Andrew Ferguson under the name of Education & Bass (E&B) and he is a music producer, DJ, Sound Designer and educator with over 30 years experience in the music industry. E&B believes in the power of non-traditional education and, when the arts are being margnialised in formal school settings it is a great way for children to explore their own self-expression and build their confidence.
Andrew’s own educational path was one that saw him leave school without formal qualifications but, his passion and enthusiasm for music, saw him return to education to complete a Master’s Degree and PGCE. He has a real passion for helping those children being left behind – believing that inclusion that the traditional education pathways miss can unlock a myriad of opportunities.
The Home Education Offer
Andrew reached out to me to share details of the online Music Technology Club and it certianly looks really interesting. At the moment the offer is for secondary age children (11-16) and will cover:
- Music production and arrangement
- Composition and songwriting
- Beat-making and rhythm creation
- Recording and mixing techniques
- Sound design and synthesis
- Practical music theory for producers
- Turning creative ideas into full tracks
The sessions will be beginner friendly and run in the daytime. The groups will be small and interactive and includes catch-up resources. There’s also a pathway to advanced programmes and accreditation for those wishing to pursue those options.
How the Online Sessions Will Work
The block will be six week in total (the first session on 21/10 is free and will run from 10:00-11:00. The fee is £59 per family (as many siblings on the same screen as you need) and the spaces are limited in order to keep groups small.
Full details are available here and, at the end of the page, is the sign up for the session on 21st October. Online tutoring can be a great addition to a home education schedule, espeically as children get older as it helps give them some autonomy over their learning.
Music Technology Club sounds like a great opportunity and a great opportunity for Home Educators.
From an ‘outsiders’ perspective it certainly sounds interesting and great value