Having pored over the Arts Council website today to top up my Hub knowledge, I was reminded of one teacher's remark during the Q&A with MP Ed Vaizey on Wednesday about the provision of 'meaningless one year's tuition'.
The overall success of a hub including the provision of pathways for continued support after a limited period of tuition seems to depend on the bid winners' (mostly music services) ability to develop a strong 'hub vision' and make innovative partnerships with organisations in their local authority. This undoubtedly doesn't happen over night but there was much talk to suggest that it simply doesn't happen much at all, with schools and other organisations far from included, 'pushed out by the music services' were the exact words from one disgruntled music teacher. Other issues raised included the desire to see details of failed bids, and a concern that the consultation period for deciding on the winning bids was too short.
Arriving late but with an inspired vision for music hubs, Mr Vaizey did appear, at times, reluctant to claim responsibility for the practical details beyond such a vision. Ultimately satisfied that his desired goals had been implemented (and at speed) all other problems are simply down to the fact it's early days and hubs are still evolving- he could well have a point but what's your opinion? Please feel free to comment and share your experiences (good, bad or inbetween) of music hubs.