skip to main content

Release of Charter for Visiting Music Teachers to Help Schools Provide the Best Support

The MU has produced a Charter for Visiting Music Teachers (VMTs) in joint partnership with the NEU, to set out what VMTs require from schools to do their jobs effectively.

Published: 23 January 2020 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:30 PM
Photograph of sheet music on stand, with blurred cello student in the background
The Charter includes practical advice on what VMTs need, from building access information to pupils’ additional needs, as well as information on employment issues.

The Charter is a free resource for all schools to use and share. It includes practical advice on what VMTs need, from building access information to pupils’ additional needs, as well as information on employment issues.

Diane Widdison, MU National Organiser for Education and Training explained the intention behind the Charter:

“The VMT Charter was created to hopefully help schools manage their relationship better with the visiting teachers that contribute to their musical activities.

“We have worked closely with our sister Union, the NEU, on putting this Charter together to produce a document that explains how to navigate through the sometimes complicated ways VMTs work in schools and how best they can be supported to teach effectively."

Download the Charter for free

VMTs are invited to use the VMT Charter as a checklist of what to expect from schools, as well as sharing it in their workplaces. Music services and hub leaders may also find it useful.

Find out more about the MU’s guidance for schools hiring VMTs.

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

A large trans flag on a metal pole blowing in the wind with a bright blue sky in the background.

MU Stands With Trans, Nonbinary and Intersex Musicians Following New EHRC Guidance

Following the Equality and Human Rights Commission’s (EHRC) draft updated Code of Practice, the MU is seeking information on what the new guidance means for trans, nonbinary and intersex members. We encourage anyone facing discrimination to contact their regional office for support.

Published: 27 May 2026

Read more about MU Stands With Trans, Nonbinary and Intersex Musicians Following New EHRC Guidance
MU members and staff standing in front of the Union's bright yellow marching banner which reads

MU Members Join TUC May Day March in Leeds

MU members and staff took part in the TUC May Day event in Leeds on 2 May, joining trade union colleagues from across the movement in a show of solidarity and collective action.

Published: 15 May 2026

Read more about MU Members Join TUC May Day March in Leeds