Coffee-break interview: Emily Stratford | Schools

In our school newsletters we will be hearing from different freelancers and teachers to find out a little bit more about them and their experiences with ENO Engage.

SEND Specialist Emily Stratford spoke to us about her experience working with the English National Opera, both as a SEND music teacher of 14 years, and as a freelance consultant for ENO Engage.

SEND Specialist Emily Stratford

Hi Emily! Could you tell us a little about yourself and your connection to the work of ENO Engage?

It’s been incredible to build a relationship with the ENO firstly as a teacher and most recently as a freelance consultant.

I worked as a SEND music teacher for 14 years and had the pleasure of bringing many school groups to relaxed performances and Coliseum tours. I currently work as a full time consultant and have partnered with the ENO to write the SEND version of Finish this… and support adapting the school tours at the Coliseum to support SEND groups.

Can you tell us a bit about your experience bringing pupils to the ENO’s London Coliseum?

I first did a school visit to a relaxed performance about 5 years ago and tried to bring groups at least every year after that. The young people were able to experience an Opera in a way that supported their needs and allowed them to have breaks if needed.

Many students would travel back from the Coliseum singing on the tube. They loved it! We saw many productions such as the Barber of Seville, A Midsummer Night’s dream and Satyagraha.

The Barber of Seville

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What impact do opportunities like this have on your pupils?

It allows young people to access an iconic, culturally important space in a way that feels welcoming and supports their needs. It exposes them to a genre that they would be otherwise unfamiliar with.

The music and drama of Opera really connects with young people with additional needs. The costumes, staging, live orchestra and passionate performances support and develop engagement from the students that I have brought over the years.

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What impact do opportunities like this have on the school and wider school community?

I think coming to places like the Coliseum in such a welcoming way encourages young people with additional needs that they are welcome and have the right to access arts and culture.

How would you describe ENO’s approach to working with, and for, SEND schools?
Inclusive; open to learn and adapt; and creating magical, memorable experiences.

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Has anything surprised you from your experience working with ENO?

The ENO has been one of the first organisations to want to talk to the school and with specialists before delivering a program to make sure it’s as meaningful as possible. Often companies have programs, but aren’t willing to understand the learners who will be taking part and it will always have less impact. The ENO has shown an initiative to get to know the specific learners they will be working with and develop and adapt their programs to suit them.

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What’s the best thing about being a SEND music specialist?

Using music as a supportive tool to help a child develop holistically. I’ve seen music support the development of communication, emotional regulation and confidence. I love being able to facilitate that magic!