Music Education Hub Development 2015

How is everyone doing with their Hubs ? How does it feel ?

The development of the Hubs is moving into another phase over the next 18 months and in Lancashire we are running 2 visioning days that are looking at 2016-19 and how we can work together in the most positive fashion.

In advance of a recent meeting that was looking at governance I gathered information from a few MINC partners about the current state of governance in their areas. This shows a range of partnerships and structures with most of the Hubs run by Music Services as the Lead Partners. It is not always clear how decision making on the allocation of resources is taken in every case.

A key issue this research shows is around potential conflicts of interest between the Chair of a Hub who may also be the CEO of the main beneficiary of Hub funding. In addition there is a difficulty for Hubs who wish to create independent strategic boards when the Lead Partner is a local authority organisation. I can share that research with anyone if you email me personally.

Finally there is a real opportunity with the allocation of the new ‘extra’ funding of £17 million to the Hubs which it seems will be split quite evenly. ACE have stated that it should be spent on work that addresses identified needs as well as addressing Areas for Development outlined in the End of Year letters to Hubs. As it will be, in essence, new money we have an opportunity to look at new inclusive programmes and also at developing existing projects to be more inclusive. The deadline for the new budget proposal is 23rd February so I would encourage you all to talk soon to your Hubs and try to make sure £17 million is spent wisely.

Lets keep in touch.