Acknowledged the debate's importance and the need to widen access to arts education. Mentioned her personal experience of learning a musical instrument at school, highlighting its benefits in academic achievement and personal development. Emphasised the Government’s mission to break down barriers to opportunity with an inclusive curriculum including music. Announced a new national centre for arts and music education, set to launch by September 2026 with the aim of supporting high-quality teaching in music and other arts disciplines. Emphasised continued support for the music hubs programme with £76 million funding secured for 2025-26 and highlighted the Government’s investment in a new pilot to widen access to musical instruments for disadvantaged pupils, including an additional £233 million incentives package for teacher training. Discussed positive signs of teacher recruitment with a reported increase of trainees in music courses from 216 to 331. Announced a 5.5% pay award for teachers in 2024-25 and a 4% pay award for the following year, resulting in an almost 10% increase over two years. Mentioned expanded recruitment campaigns and flexibility initiatives such as allowing planning, preparation, and assessment time to be undertaken at home. Highlighted work on addressing teacher workload and wellbeing through a service aimed at reducing excessive workload. Addressed enrichment opportunities like music and the arts with £132.5 million allocated from the dormant assets scheme strategy for disadvantaged young people's access to enrichment. Announced commitments of £36 million for academic year 2025-26 to support high-achieving children in specialist music and dance education, benefiting over 2,000 pupils annually. Confirmed commitment to high-quality music education for all children, including £36 million funding for the next academic year (2025-26), support for lower-income families, and willingness to meet for further discussion.