A free online resource designed to help music educators teach children aged three to five has been shortlisted for Outstanding Music Education Resource at the Music & Drama Education Awards 2027.
Music Mark reported that A Common Approach: Early Years received the nomination roughly six months after launching in April 2026. The resource supports music teachers working in nursery and reception settings, including those transitioning from other age groups to early years for the first time.
Rather than setting formal learning objectives, the resource uses learning descriptors to help teachers recognize how young children naturally explore, create and communicate through music. It combines six areas of musical learning with six principles of early years practice, offering practical ideas for adult-led sessions and collaboration with nursery and school staff.
The resource also encourages music-making throughout the week, extending learning beyond visits from a music teacher. Catherine Brentnall, who coordinated the resource, said the nomination recognizes the early years music educators who contributed their expertise to shape it.
The awards celebrate practitioners, schools, charities and organizations supporting learning and engagement in music and drama across the UK, with winners selected by a judging panel drawn from both sectors.
For more information, visit musicmark.org.uk.