Inclusive Practice in Action 2026: Creating Change Together

We’re back for another year of Inclusive Practice in Action, and this time, we’re teaming up with Drake Music’s Future Leaders to create a day full of connection, creativity, and conversation.

This year's theme: Creating Change Together

We’ll be exploring how we build inclusive communities in music education and how learning from each other’s work can help shape what we do next. It’s all about sharing, listening, and growing together.

What to expect:

• Open conversations about what people are working on
• Stories and experiences from across the music education sector
• Live music, film screenings, and more creative moments
• Practical ideas you can take away and use in your own work

Key themes to be explored:

• What “inclusive practice” really means in music education
• The barriers young people face and how we can help break them down
• How to build supportive, diverse communities in the arts
• Creating fairer, more accessible pathways into music

Who is it for?

• Music Educators: Teachers and practitioners at all levels who are committed to making music education more inclusive and accessible.
• Youth Workers: Professionals working directly with young people in community settings, who are passionate about creating pathways for young people in music.
• Music Leaders & Community Organisers: Those involved in community music programmes that aim to support young people’s progression in music.
• Music Education Hub leaders and staff: Leaders and staff working within Music Education Hubs who are shaping and delivering music education initiatives and creating opportunities for young people across regions.
• Young People: Emerging musicians and artists who are navigating their own paths in the music industry and seeking inspiration, guidance, and support, as well as young people who are interested in learning, sharing, networking, and making a difference.
• Policymakers & Advocates: Individuals working to shape policies and practices that promote equity and inclusion in education and the arts.
• Musicians & Artists: Musicians who are passionate about advocating for inclusion and diversity in the arts, and supporting young people’s musical journeys.
• Arts Organisations & Funders: Those funding or supporting projects focused on access to music education and opportunities for young people.
• Anyone passionate about making music education more inclusive, accessible, and community-driven.

Inclusive Practice in Action is an essential event for educators, music practitioners, youth workers, policymakers, and anyone with a committed interest in advancing equity in music education. By attending, you will become part of a broader movement to ensure that all young people, regardless of their background, experience, and ability, have the opportunity to unlock their full musical potential.

Stay tune! We’ll be announcing speakers and session details very soon!

We look forward to welcoming you to #IPIA2026 and working together to create a more inclusive future for young people in music.

Tickets now available!

A 10% discount is available for organisations booking more than one ticket. 

We want to ensure our training events are fully accessible and that cost is not a barrier. We therefore have a limited number of bursary places available to those who are unable to pay (subject to availability). Please email emily@sound-connections.org.uk to discuss the options.