LEIGH Pooley's report in the Youth page section of the Courier (July 5) in support of music in schools is very welcome.

Because music is a relatively low priority within the National Curriculum, the focus in primary schools seems to be about ensuring the widest possible participation among children – instead of encouraging individual achievement.

The two should go hand in hand, with talented children being a model for others to follow.

Individual achievement is disproportionately found in households who can afford to buy private music lessons: it is grossly unfair that a universally important element of education should be available only to those who can pay.

Schools should definitely be encouraged to assist more families with the costs of individual music tuition.

Music is both an enriching activity in itself, but it also stimulates the mind's capacity to learn. Better music provision can lead to better Ofsted results.

With so many children in the Crediton Learning Community (13 primary schools and one secondary school with sixth form) and so many musical adults engaged in schools, churches, choral groups and bands of all types, there is a good case for Crediton to become a champion of best practice in music education.

These resources simply need to be linked together.

Among other initiatives, one might propose setting up a new Crediton orchestra, a civic reception for those achieving Grade exams and perhaps a fund to enable access to lessons and instruments. No doubt readers of The Courier could suggest some more ideas?

We may not be able to change the mind of the Secretary of State, but there is plenty that can be done locally, within the schools and in the community at large, if there is a will to do it.

Paul Vincent

Western Villas

Crediton