Music in Citizenship (MiC) is a framework developed by Dorset Music Service (Pili Lopez) and Leeds Beckett University (Tenley Martin). It provides music-based training for non-specialist educators and support staff, equipping them with practical tools to use music as a means of enhancing student well-being and learning outcomes.

The project grew out of consultations with Dorset Council’s educational psychologists in response to two intersecting challenges: the rise in pupil mental health concerns and the decline in music and arts provision in schools.

Drawing on existing research on the positive effects of music on well-being and attainment, MiC offers a structured programme that empowers non-music educators—particularly Emotional Literacy Support Assistants (ELSAs)—to integrate music activities into their practice to better support struggling pupils.

Description of components

The Music in Citizenship (MiC) Model consists of three interconnected components that work together to embed music into well-being and learning support:

1. Advocacy

Promotes the use of music as a well-being tool by equipping non-music staff with practical strategies to incorporate musical activities into their work with pupils.

2. Training Programme

Breaks down the theory and practice of using music to support well-being, offering approaches and music-based activities that are accessible and achievable for non-specialist staff. The programme highlights how music can positively impact both emotional health and educational attainment.

3. Support Network and Resources

Sustains practice through Octagon’s online resource hub, a Microsoft Teams–based Community of Practice, and the integration of music-focused discussions into ELSA supervisory sessions led by Educational Psychologists.

Training Components

1. New ELSAs

Practical session experiencing music and wellbeing activities.

2. Music and Wellbeing Level 1

Benefits of music on regulating emotions and behaviour, intro to MATES model and activities for each KEY- Mind, Air, Tree, Expression and Stretch.

3. Music and Wellbeing Level 2

Practice sharing, quick review of MATES model and link to reasons for pupil referral to ELSAS, participants plan/develop/deliver and review an activity.

Visit our Workforce Development Events page for opportunities to engage with our Music in Citizenship programme.