skip to main content

We Support the NEU’s Five Tests for Government Before Schools Can Re-Open

We are supporting the NEU’s five tests for Government before schools can re-open.

Published: 18 May 2020 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:30 PM
Photograph of an empty classroom, desks arranged in groups.
We are liaising with specialists to make sure that we get the best advice and guidance for members going forward. Photo credit: Shutterstock

In accordance with the latest changes to the Government’s advice on social distancing, the MU’s position remains that instrumental and vocal lessons should continue online if at all possible. Face to face teaching is unable to restart under the Government’s current guidelines.

We are currently liaising with our specialist Health and Safety advisor, plus Occupational and Public Health medical practitioners from BAPAM, to ensure that we will get the best advice and guidance for members going forward.

And we are supporting our partner union, the National Education Union (NEU), in their call for the Government to meet five key tests before they move to the further opening of schools.

These five tests are:

1) Much lower numbers of Covid-19 cases
2) A national plan for social distancing
3) Testing, testing, testing!
4) Whole school strategy
5) Protection for the vulnerable

You can read the full details on all five of these tests, and why they are vital, on the NEU’s website.

For further advice for music teachers during the Covid-19 pandemic, including guidance on online contracts, and safeguarding practices to use over video calls, see our Teaching Music During the Outbreak pages.

Teachers with specific issues, please email teachers@themu.org or contact your regional office.

Get MU membership today

From gig players to part-time teachers and professional instrumentalists, MU members can access specialist insurance for musicians. This includes accident cover, health schemes, travel insurance and car insurance add-ons through the Musicians’ Union.

Explore our member services

  • Get public liability insurance for musicians
  • Access expert legal support
  • Be represented in your profession
  • Access expert career advice, resources, and training events
  • Connect, network, and get to know the community of musicians

Learn about all membership benefits

Get MU membership today

Continue reading

Young Black musician looking thoughtful while looking at a laptop in a recording studio.

Celebrating BAPAM at 40

The British Association for Performing Arts Medicine (BAPAM) turns 40 this year, and all musicians should be aware of how this pioneering charity could help them to prevent and overcome practice-related physical and mental health problems.

Published: 27 March 2024

Read more about Celebrating BAPAM at 40