Leighton Park Shortlisted for Outstanding School Music Department Award
Published by Leighton Park School on Wednesday 21st of October 2026
Leighton Park School has been shortlisted for the prestigious Outstanding School Music Department Award 2027 in the Music & Drama Education Awards, marking its third consecutive year as a finalist. The recognition reflects the strength of the School’s thriving music programme, which provides exceptional opportunities for students of all abilities to learn, perform and develop their musical talents.
Leighton Park School in Reading is delighted to announce that its Music Department has been shortlisted for the Outstanding School Music Department Award 2027 in the prestigious Music & Drama Education Awards.
The shortlist recognition marks the third consecutive year that Leighton Park’s Music Department has been named a finalist, reflecting the continued success and development of music at the School.
Rosemary Scales, Director of Music, said:
“To be recognised as a finalist for three years running is a wonderful endorsement of the ongoing success and development of our Music Department. As one of the most prestigious awards in music education, this achievement reflects the passion, commitment and hard work shown by our students and staff every day. We are thrilled!”
Leighton Park is honoured to have been shortlisted and now looks ahead to the award ceremony in London on 11 February 2027, when the winners will be announced.
Music plays a central role in life at Leighton Park, with opportunities available to students of all abilities, from absolute beginners to aspiring Conservatoire students and those considering a future musical career. More than 60% of students learn at least one instrument, while the School’s 27 peripatetic music teachers provide tuition across a remarkably diverse range of instruments, from the euphonium, accordion and harp to traditional choices such as piano and violin.
Students benefit from a rich programme of performance opportunities throughout the year, including lunchtime and evening concerts, outdoor performances at the annual Music for a Summer’s Evening event, biannual international concert tours and musical theatre productions. Music for all remains a key principle of the department, with all Year 7 pupils receiving instrumental lessons in strings, brass and woodwind as part of their curriculum. This enables students to uncover new passions and discover where their interests and talents may lie.
The School’s extensive co-curricular programme offers more than 90 hobbies each week, with around 30% focused on the performing arts. Musical opportunities range from Orchestra and Bassoon Ensemble to Rock Band and Chamber Choir, alongside many other ensembles and groups.
For talented young musicians considering their next step, Music Scholarships at Leighton Park are designed to recognise potential, nurture excellence and provide opportunities to develop, perform and contribute to the rich musical life of the School.
Applications for pupils joining in September 2027 close on 9 November 2026 for Sixth Form entry and 13 November 2026 for Years 7 and 9.
Further information is available at:
