Rishi Sunak joined pupils at Colburn Community Primary School to see how music is being used to support learning in the classroom.
The Richmond and Northallerton MP took part in Kodály-based learning sessions with Early Years and Year 1 pupils, before hearing from teachers about the impact the approach is having on attainment, behaviour, and social development.
The Kodály method is a child-centred approach which uses music, rhythm, and repetition to support children’s learning.
At Colburn Community Primary School, music is now embedded throughout the school day, helping children develop listening skills, memory, confidence, and communication.
During his visit, Mr Sunak joined pupils in singing and action-based activities before discussing the wider research behind the programme.
The approach has been championed by music specialist Lindsay Ibbotson.
Research involving more than 3,600 children, supported by a £150,000 grant from the Education Endowment Foundation, found that children exposed to the approach were, on average, three months ahead of their peers in key areas of development.
Mr Sunak said: “It was fantastic to see this approach in action and, more importantly, to see the enthusiasm of the children taking part. The confidence, concentration and engagement on display were clear to see.
“The work being undertaken by Colburn Community Primary School and Lindsay shows how creative approaches can support learning and help children develop important skills that will benefit them throughout their education.”
Yousef Abdo, headteacher of Colburn Community Primary School, said: “Over the last year, our staff have worked closely with Lindsay Ibbotson to develop a music-rich approach across EYFS and KS1. We have seen first-hand how music can support children’s listening skills, memory, language development, and confidence.
“Music is now an integral part of daily life at Colburn, bringing joy to our classrooms while supporting children’s wider development and achievement. We are grateful to Mr Sunak for taking the time to see this work in action and for his interest in the positive impact it is having on our children.”
Lindsay said: “We were delighted to welcome Rishi Sunak to Colburn Primary School to give the children a chance to share some of their musical learning with him”.
“The staff at Colburn have been developing their music skills and we hope that Rishi can help us spread the word about how teachers can use this musical approach to help children learn and enjoy their time in school.”
