skip to main content

Question Mark Over Schools Reopening

Advice for members around school reopenings, following the NEU's position on schools not currently being a safe working environment.

Photo ofChris Walters
By Chris Walters Published: 02 January 2021 | 5:31 PM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:32 PM
Photograph of an empty school classroom, the sun is rising through the windows with a red and orange glow
Members should follow our advice on teaching during the pandemic and contact us if they are unable to resolve their situation. Photo credit: Shutterstock

Our partner union, the National Education Union, has advised its members not to return to work on 4 January on the basis that schools are not currently a safe working environment.

This could prevent many schools from reopening, affecting MU members who teach. This follows the government's decision to delay opening all primary schools in London until mid-January.

While we support the NEU's position, we also acknowledge that many MU members will be worried about losing income if schools do not reopen. We also believe it is vital that music education continues for all children.

We therefore advise members that:

  • If your school stays closed, ask that your lessons be moved online. You should not be asked to delay teaching until schools reopen.
  • If your school reopens, the school (or other employer, e.g. music education hub) should support you in teaching online if you have health vulnerabilities.
  • If your school reopens and you are able to return, you must be supported in following covid-secure ways of working.
  • If you have any concerns about returning to teach, raise these issues with the school or your employer so that reasonable alternatives can be discussed.

Members should follow our advice on teaching during the pandemic and contact us if they are unable to resolve their situation through discussions with their school or employer.

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

Exterior of the Wales Millennium Centre Cardiff, where the Welsh National Opera is based.

MU Responds to Welsh National Opera Cuts

Musicians' Union members in the orchestra of Welsh National Opera (WNO) are facing a reduction in working weeks, equating to a 15% pay cut as a result of a funding shortfall for the company.

Published: 28 March 2024

Read more about MU Responds to Welsh National Opera Cuts
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