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 Public Liability, Instrument and Equipment Insurance, Accident Insurance, Tax Investigation Insurance, and Professional Indemnity Insurance for music teachers.

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

John Shortell wearing a Musicians' Union t-shirt with rainbow logo, holding a flag, during a Pride march in 2023. He is joined by colleagues and other members who are performing as they walk.

MU Head of Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Named in IQ Magazine’s 2025 Queer Pioneers List

The MU congratulates John Shortell, Head of ED&I, on being named one of IQ Magazine’s outstanding queer professionals in the international live music business. John is a driving force for change, and the Union is exceptionally proud to have him working on behalf of musicians.

Published: 03 July 2025

Read more about MU Head of Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Named in IQ Magazine’s 2025 Queer Pioneers List
An empty conference stage, lit up multi coloured blocks.

Join the MU at the We Make Music Scotland Conference 2025

The MU will be attending and sponsoring a workshop at this year’s We Make Music Scotland Conference, taking place on Thursday 4 and Friday 5 September at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland in Glasgow.

Published: 02 July 2025

Read more about Join the MU at the We Make Music Scotland Conference 2025
Wooden blocks with speech bubble graphics on them against a blue background, a single block with a red stop sign is in front of them, blocking the line, representing free speech restrictions.

MU Reiterates Anti-Censorship Stance

The MU reiterates its anti-censorship position and support for the organisation ‘Freemuse’, following the issues around the broadcasting of Glastonbury sets this weekend.

Published: 01 July 2025

Read more about MU Reiterates Anti-Censorship Stance