Ferndown Middle School is celebrating double success after being named a lead school for music across Dorset and Somerset and receiving the national Music Mark of recognition.
The school is the first middle school to achieve Octagon lead school status, recognising it as a trailblazer in music education and a champion for creative learning. Every pupil receives at least one hour of music tuition a week, and clubs before, during and after school are filled with budding musicians, singers and composers.
Head of Music Scott Welcomme said: “We really believe in nurturing pupils through music and encouraging them to explore different career pathways. Music transforms lives, supports wellbeing, and brings people together.”
He added that the new status allows Ferndown Middle School to share best practice with other schools, host training sessions, and promote music across the community.
Student Evie Bartlett said she enjoys the wide range of music opportunities, from learning instruments to joining clubs, adding that music “is fun and makes us feel happy.”
Headteacher Grant Hopkins said the recognition reflects the school’s strong commitment to enrichment, with both sport and music now earning top honours within the Southern Education Trust.
Share us with your friends on social media, and have a listen to Bournemouth One online and on DAB for all your local news, traffic, jobs, weather, coastal info and more.
Register below for free regular updates via email.