Sound Beginnings Project | Dorset Music Service
Are you a passionate and experienced Early Years musician who believes in the power of music to transform children’s lives?
Dorset Music Service is seeking an enthusiastic and skilled practitioner to join our innovative Sound Beginnings project. This exciting three-year programme works with families across Dorset to support children’s development through music, helping more children achieve a Good Level of Development by encouraging musical learning and play within the home environment.
Based in Family Hubs across the county, this role offers the opportunity to make a meaningful difference to young children and their families while working as part of a supportive and collaborative team.
About the Role
As an Early Years Musician, you will deliver engaging, high-quality music sessions for children aged 2-4 and their families, using singing, movement, play and musical exploration to support communication, language and overall development.
You will:
- Deliver weekly 40-minute music sessions in Family Hubs and community settings across Dorset.
- Build positive relationships with Family Hub staff, families and partner organisations.
- Deliver sessions as part of a shared county-wide programme, ensuring consistency and excellence in practice.
- Motivate and empower parents and carers to use music confidently at home.
- Contribute to reflective practice, evaluation and ongoing professional development within the Sound Beginnings team.
- Help create welcoming, inclusive environments where children and families can thrive through music.
About You
We are looking for someone who:
- Has recent experience working with young children.
- Demonstrates excellent Early Years music practice and facilitation skills.
- Understands the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), including the Early Learning Goals and the principles of a Good Level of Development.
- Can engage and inspire young children and their families through music, singing and playful learning experiences.
- Takes a child-centred approach and is responsive to children’s interests, ideas and curiosity.
- Has excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Holds a full driving licence and has regular access to a vehicle, as travel throughout Dorset is essential.
Desirable Skills and Experience
- Knowledge of communication and language development in the Early Years.
- Experience of working directly with families and within community-based programmes.
- A relevant qualification such as CME:EC or another recognised qualification in music, education or Early Years practice.
What We Offer
- £75 per session – (£50 per hour for delivery of session, plus £25 for planning and reflection)
- £15 per hour for any meetings and continuing professional development (CPD).
- The opportunity to be part of an ambitious, county-wide programme with lasting impact for children and families.
- Ongoing support, collaboration and professional learning opportunities.
- All resources and instruments for sessions will be provided.
How to apply:
If you are a creative, reflective and passionate Early Years practitioner who understands the importance of music in children’s development, we would love to hear from you.
Please email dorsetmusicservice@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk your CV and a covering letter outlining why you want to work on this project and the skills you can bring to the role.
Closing date: 18th Novermber 2026.
