As I write this, we are well into the season of report-writing and end of year concerts. Teaching colleagues are crossing off the days to the summer break.

What better time than the present to plan lessons for next term? You think I'm joking?

Well, class music teachers have grasped the concepts of short, medium and long-term planning, supported by schemes of work. As a result, there is now an expectation from schools, head teachers, governors, and parents - as well as Ofsted inspectors - that other teaching professionals undertaking teaching duties in schools will demonstrate similar competencies.

The Hound's resident teacher has had Ofsted inspectors in group instrumental lessons - and used the opportunity to extol the virtues of group instrumental teaching, its relationship with class music and the benefits to children's development across the wider curriculum! Of course, this means that the paperwork has to be completely up to date.

Report-writing is the visible component of regular assessment. This helps us focus on progress to date and, critically, informs planning. So what better opportunity to think through aims and objectives for the forthcoming year: addressing any weaknesses and building on the strengths of the student?

Keep the objectives SMART:

• Specific
• Measurable
• Achievable
• Relevant
• Timely

...this way you have already set out the bones of the planning process.

The schemes of work are the flesh - defining the activities needed to realise the objectives and outcomes for the 'medium term'.

Just because it is being put in writing doesn't change anything: the lessons still need to be engaging, challenging, responsive and fun!

Above all, these schemes of work are not engraved in unyielding tablets of stone. Changing and adapting a lesson from that planned is a strength - not a weakness - just ask anyone who teaches students with Special Educational Needs!

If you would like to comment on this or any current issue in teaching, you can email us at: hound@sheetmusichound.com