The Singing School Handbook, to be published on 7th November, is a how-to guide to help teachers (with or without musical knowledge) and singing leaders harness the power of singing and turn their school into a Singing School. With universally transferable principles, suggestions and strategies, the book provides a framework that applies to any educational setting or school structure catering for the ages of 4-11, and beyond. 
 
A Singing School is a place where singing is right at the heart of school life and where the whole school community knows and can describe what difference singing makes to their school. Becoming a Singing School motivates everyone to work together towards a common goal while taking part in an activity they can all do and enjoy – singing. 
 
With fewer hours being allocated to arts subjects and less provision for music in school life, The Singing School Handbook gives teachers a way of incorporating music into everyday learning. It shows teachers that singing is not something they necessarily need to set extra time aside for, but that it can be used to enhance the teaching of core subjects and, at the same time, improve pupil engagement, self-esteem, teamwork, and school morale. 
 
Michelle James, CEO of Sing Up and author of the book explains: “The educational and social landscape for children and young people has changed significantly since Sing Up began in 2007. Pressures around academic performance often lead to arts subjects being marginalised in schools. What you will find though is that music, and singing in particular, helps create well-balanced, resilient young learners with strong peer networks and friendship groups. Singing does something unique to our bodies and minds and it is this which we wish to help schools harness for all children to benefit their development and provide lifelong enjoyment."
 
Lesley Rutherford, Publishing Director for Faber Music said: “We are delighted to have worked with Sing Up and Michelle James in bringing this invaluable resource for schools to publication. We believe that by introducing singing into every aspect of the school day, the lives and learning experiences of children will be enriched and we are sure that The Singing School Handbook will enable teachers to achieve this.” 
 
This practical handbook includes planning tools, case studies and troubleshooting alongside warm ups, games and song ideas. It also offers guidance on how to start a choir, vocal leadership techniques, SEND advice and vocal health information.
 
The Singing School Handbook by Michelle James will be released on 7 November 2018. 
Available to pre-order now.
ISBN: 0-571-54072-4 | Price: £12.99