City of Westminster College (CWC), is delighted to have been named as a Music Academic Partnership (MAP) institution with UK Music, leading the way as the first London-based Further Education provider to be admitted.
The Music Academic Partnership (MAP) is a pioneering initiative – recently having marked a decade since its launch in 2015 – that aims to strengthen collaboration between educational institutions and the UK music industry.
Founded and supported by UK Music, MAP helps educators and industry prepare the next generation of music professionals and supports the vital music education and skills landscape in the UK.
The partnership will offer City of Westminster College’s Music Performance & Production learners access to industry insight and inspiration through a programme of events and opportunities.
The wealth of valuable experiences offered throughout the academic year include direct links into the music industry via guest speakers, exclusive access to careers resources, a programme of bespoke external events such as studio tours, and opportunities to shape education and skills policy ─ offering students vital experiences that will prepare them for careers as music professionals.
CWC alumni will also be eligible to be nominated for the Outstanding MAP Graduate Awards, which recognise exceptional graduates making impactful contributions to music.
The partnership comes as the UK Government earlier this month committed to putting “creative subjects firmly at the centre” of the curriculum review, with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer remarking: “Learning music at school made a huge difference to my life. We will make sure every child has access to those experiences so that creativity isn’t a privilege, but a right.”
Dr Oliver Morris, Director of Education and Skills at MAP, said: “We are excited to welcome City of Westminster College into the Music Academic Partnership. Encouraging young people to consider the full gamut of potential careers in music as well as supporting them to navigate this journey alongside their tutors is so important.
“The college and staff provide a fantastic environment for their students to learn and grow, and we look forward to supporting their excellent work.”
Stephen Davis, CEO & Group Principal of United Colleges Group, said: “The opportunities offered through this sector-leading partnership with UK Music will ensure our learners are upskilled and prepared for future-focussed careers in the arts.
“The creative industries are a significant contributor to the UK economy, and our college is committed to training the next generation who will be part of shaping the future of the music industry.”
Earlier this week, the partnership facilitated a trip for the college’s learners to PPL in Central London; the UK music licensing organisation for over 150,000 performers and recording rightsholder members. Students were also given a tour of the iconic Dean Street Studios and enjoyed panel discussions with music industry experts.