Miss Abigail Bruce
Contact
- Email: k1539656@kingston.ac.uk
- Location: Kingston Hill
- Faculty: Kingston School of Art
- Department: Department of Performing Arts
Research project: The Music Commission Report and Music Education in U.K. Secondary Schools: Towards Sustainable and Quality Provision
Abstract
The U.K. secondary-school education system has undergone some significant changes, particularly since the introduction of the EBacc in 2010. It is observable that such governmental measures are heavily concerned with increasing skills and figures obtained in STEM subjects. With the addition of increasing funding pressures, there is increasing concern surrounding a narrowing of the curriculum from KS4, subsequently putting creative arts subjects at risk. As more statistics, policies and initiatives become available, this concern appears increasingly substantiated. With calls for change imminent upon the publication of the 2018 Music Commission Report, this research aims to explore proactive solutions toward a sustainable music education. This will be underpinned by multiple considerations. Firstly, financial sustainability, particularly through effective, low-cost digital resourcing, but also in terms of quality provision. That is, ensuring that recommendations of practice can provide and maintain the socio-psycho-cultural benefits, that established music research has identified extensively.
- Research degree: MA by Research
- Title of project: The Music Commission Report and Music Education in U.K. Secondary Schools: Towards Sustainable and Quality Provision
Biography
I am a recent Kingston University graduate in Music and a keen advocate for music education and its holistic value. As a trained vocalist, I have enjoyed performing at a variety of venues. However, I favour guiding others in accessing their individual musical potential. Starting work as a social worker from the age of 17, I witnessed the intrinsic benefits of the arts and became passionate about helping individuals access them. Throughout my undergraduate studies, I delivered and assisted with workshops in world music, vocals and music theory. I was also a volunteer at Kingston Hospital, delivering music therapy sessions. Now, I continue to get involved with projects that aim to facilitate individual progression, particularly in education and careers, both paid and voluntary. With evidence of various increasing pressures facing U.K. secondary schools, I am continuing my studies to further investigate solutions for sustainable provisions in music education.
Areas of research interest
- Music Education
- Music Cognition
- Social Learning Theories
- Digital Learning Technologies
- Sustainable Progression, Resources and Provisions
- Arts Funding and Policy
- Interculturalism and Inclusive Practice
Qualifications
- BMus Music, Kingston University, London
Funding or awards received
- Music Prize (Undergraduate) - Awarded in recognition of consistently high achievement and/or an outstanding contribution to the musical life of the University.