Education, Ferndown | Posted on October 27th, 2025 | return to news

Ferndown school hits the right notes

The Middle School has received two accolades for its music offering to pupils who receive a minimum of one hour a week music tuition.

Ferndown Middle School is encouraging pupils to enjoy music.

The school, which ensures every one of its students receives a minimum of one hour a week music tuition, has been recognised with the Music Mark.

Break-time and after-school clubs are packed with aspiring musicians, singers and composers. Ferndown is also the first middle school to receive the Octagon lead school status, which means it is a trailblazer in music education.

The Music Mark was gained for its ambition and quality – and you must be recommended to achieve it.

The department was recognised for its advocacy for music education, as well as the tireless commitment to helping all pupils access a high-quality curriculum.

Scott Welcomme, head of music, said: “We really believe in the benefits of nurturing our pupils with music and encouraging them to pursue different career pathways.

“Music transforms lives and is something that everyone can be involved with.

“Music improves children’s general wellbeing and health, and we do everything from classical music to Chinese drumming to DJ-ing.

“To become an Octagon lead school across Dorset and Somerset – which has 180,000 children – is a great achievement.

“It means we are a ‘champion’ of music in our community and can share best practice with other teachers.

“We can host and lead meetings and training sessions and support other schools in developing their music offering and can promote musical activities and events across our area.

“And the Music Mark is something that we were recommended for, and it acknowledges the achievements of the school in delivering music to the children.”

Student Evie Bartlett said: “I love all the options available and all the music clubs. I play the flute and am doing my grades. Music gives us lots of opportunities, it’s fun and makes us feel happy.”

Headteacher Grant Hopkins said: “We have a Gold mark for sport and these two great accolades for music.

“Our extra-curricular offerings are extremely well received by students and their parents.”

Ferndown Middle School is part of Southern Education Trust (SET).