James Risdon is the Access Lead at ABRSM where he is responsible for ensuring access arrangements and reasonable adjustments for ABRSM assessments and qualifications.

He is also an active voice in ABRSM’s wider diversity and inclusion activity which has led to work on the Clarion, accessible publishing and much more.

James grew up in Devon, learning recorder and clarinet with two inspirational teachers, inspired by the wealth of live music in the county. As well as sharing insights into his work with ABRSM, James will talk about how expectations, attitudes and opportunities for musicians with disabilities have changed over the past 40 years but how the fundamentals have remained constant. He never travels anywhere without a recorder or two…

Dr Alison Daubney has a portfolio career as a teacher, lecturer, researcher, workshop leader, and author. She has worked across all ages and stages of education and has taught in a variety of mainstream and special educational settings. 

Alison has been actively involved in teacher education for many years and is an Honorary Senior Lecturer in Education at the University of Sussex. She holds a PhD from the University of Surrey. 

She has worked extensively in the UK and internationally with the University of Cambridge International Examinations on curriculum and assessment development, training, and research. Additionally, Alison has conducted research and arts education evaluations for numerous organizations in the UK and abroad. 

Alison has authored multiple books, materials, and research reports, including Teaching Primary Music published by SAGE, and the award-winning Primary Music Toolkit. 

After lunch, we will be treated to a very special musical performance from Devon Secondary School Battle of the Bands finalists, Burnt Daylight. This gritty four-piece indie rock band from Queen Elizabeth's School, Crediton and gaining a growing reputation for their Artic Monkeys influenced original material and charismatic stage presence.

They wowed the judges at the Battle of the Bands final at Exeter Phoenix back in February, picking up a wildcard opportunity to professionally record their music. They have also been booked to perform at several local events and  festivals over the summer months.

They will be hot footing to Buckfast straight from a GCSE exam so we're hugely grateful to QE for their support.

Whether you’re an experienced teacher, a beginner, or somewhere in between, Charanga has everything you need to teach music confidently. In this session, Charanga's Madeleine Casson will preview the new scheme of work, which is being built in response to feedback from teachers working in a variety of settings.

You’ll explore dynamic, real-world music-making resources from across the Charanga platform, including newly commissioned materials designed to inspire and engage all students. Join us for an interactive session filled with fresh ideas, practical tools, and support for teachers of all experience levels.