The 7 Questions Headteachers Should Ask Before Choosing a Music Provider (But Usually Don’t)
How to confidently select the right partner for your school’s music provision and why SoMi might just be the perfect fit.
Music provision can be a minefield for schools.
You’re told a provider will “handle everything,” or that children will “love the sessions”, but what really matters gets lost in vague promises and glossy leaflets.
Whether you’re already working with an external music company, or exploring something new, here are 7 essential questions you should be asking and how SoMi stacks up against them.
1. Who actually delivers the sessions and are they teachers or musicians?
What to ask:
Are they trained educators or just performers? Do they understand pedagogy, classroom management, and curriculum outcomes?
Why it matters:
Anyone can play an instrument. Teaching it well to a mixed-ability primary group is a different skill entirely.
What SoMi does:
Every SoMi educator is a trained teacher or experienced facilitator, not just a performer. They follow our music pedagogy framework to ensure children learn, enjoy, and progress.
2. Will this genuinely reduce staff workload or add to it?
What to ask:
Who handles setup, safeguarding, space planning, reporting, behaviour?
Why it matters:
Many schools switch providers because what looked easy actually became another thing for staff to juggle.
What SoMi does:
We’re plug-and-play. Staff receive a clear schedule, risk assessments, and we manage everything else. We even handle performance prep, assessments, and parent comms, so your team can focus on their day jobs.
3. Does it align with Ofsted’s music framework and DfE guidance?
What to ask:
Does this programme develop musical knowledge, not just enjoyment? Can I justify it in an inspection?
Why it matters:
A fun session isn’t enough. Ofsted wants intent, implementation, and impact, just like any other subject.
What SoMi does:
Our sessions are built around progression, inclusion and musical development. We evidence learning. Plus, we can provide you with a music curriculum map, impact statements and assessment data on request.
4. Is it inclusive and accessible for all pupils, not just the confident ones?
What to ask:
Who is this really for? Do quieter pupils thrive, or just those who already love performing?
Why it matters:
Music should reach the children who need it most, those lacking confidence, social connection, or expressive outlets.
What SoMi does:
We’re not just teaching music, we’re building confidence, inclusion and belonging through music. Our group ensemble model ensures every child participates without fear or pressure.
5. Is this helping my school stand out and attract parents?
What to ask:
Is this provision something we can shout about, or something we have to explain away?
Why it matters:
Your music provision is often the first thing parents see at an open day. It’s also something they talk about in WhatsApp groups.
What SoMi does:
We deliver high-energy performances, give you engaging content for socials, and provide marketing assets that show your school as a place where music thrives.
6. Can I try it before committing fully?
What to ask:
Is there a way to pilot the programme or get feedback from my pupils and staff before signing up?
Why it matters:
You deserve confidence that it’s the right cultural fit before diving in.
What SoMi does:
Yes, we offer no-obligation taster sessions so you can see the difference for yourself. Most schools that try us, stay with us.
7. What happens if a session gets cancelled or a tutor is off?
What to ask:
Is there a backup plan? Or do pupils just miss out?
Why it matters:
Unreliable delivery damages trust and breaks momentum, especially with music.
What SoMi does:
We have a networked team, not lone freelancers. If someone’s off, we’ve got cover. We pride ourselves on reliability and consistency.
Why SoMi?
At SoMi, we don’t just run sessions, we partner with schools to deliver a music experience that makes a difference. To your pupils. To your staff. To your parents.
And because we’ve built SoMi specifically around the gaps we’ve seen in other providers, we tick boxes that others don’t even know exist.