Bringing Music to Life in Early Years Education with Bristol’s Hartcliffe Nursery School

We’re thrilled to continue our support for Bristol’s Hartcliffe Nursery School, building on our initial pilot project exploring the power of music in an early years setting. Hartcliffe is a warm, dedicated nursery in one of Bristol’s more economically challenged areas. Despite funding pressures, it remains committed to giving children the best start—and its recent rise in Ofsted ratings highlights the dedication of its staff and leadership, along with the positive impact of creative initiatives like this.

At the heart of the project is musician-in-residence Richard Hughes, whose child-led music sessions are helping children, especially those who struggle with communication, build confidence, social skills, and a love for learning. Through playful exploration of sound, rhythm, movement and mark-making, they’re discovering new ways to explore and express themselves. The sessions have been particularly valuable for children with special educational needs, offering a calming, inclusive space where they can connect and grow.

With additional Earthsong Foundation funding, this next phase will not only continue the direct work with children but also help ensure its long-term impact. By providing cover for staff release, Hartcliffe’s educators will have the chance to step back, observe, and gain the confidence to further embed these techniques into their own teaching. Our specialist-on-the-ground Richard is also working closely with the nursery to show how these creative approaches support curriculum goals, reinforcing that music-led learning isn’t just enriching—it’s essential.

Hartcliffe Nursery is proving that music can be a game-changer in early education, and we’re excited to see this work continue to grow, bringing lasting benefits to children, teachers, and the wider early years community.