Spotlight on: Mr Jopling, Director of Music

When did you join Hallfield?

September 2018

Where were you before you joined Hallfield?

On the edge of the Yorkshire Dales. I managed a Music Centre for North Yorkshire Music Service.

What made you want to become a teacher?

I wanted to work with young people and with music. Being a music teacher seemed a perfect fit!

What is your favourite topic(s) to teach and why?

Anything that involves collaborative music making whether that’s in the classroom, an ensemble or a choir. I have had a huge amount of fun making music with friends since I started playing an instrument at a young age. I want to provide the skills and opportunities for our pupils to make music together.

How does your subject enhance a child’s curriculum / development?

There is currently a lot of research on the benefits of music education. Children who participate in musical activities develop language, reading skills, coordination, fine motor skills, team-working skills and social skills. Significant research also observes that pupils who learn an instrument (which includes singing) excel in their studies. I want to instil a love of experiencing a broad spectrum of music. This is something we can enjoy our whole lives.

What careers would your subject be useful for?

Aside from careers in the music industry, music education is very useful for any job that requires the use of the brain.

What does an average day at Hallfield look like for you?

Class music lessons, lots and lots of emails, planning, setting up and running ensemble and choir rehearsals and trying to find pupils who have forgotten their instrument lesson or their rehearsal.

What do you love most about Hallfield?

My colleagues. We are a strong and supportive team.

What would we be surprised to know about you?

My grandfather was an expert in tropical medicine and aside from being a Harley Street consultant, was the director of a hospital for patients with leprosy in the 1950s. He had a very full and interesting life. One of his hobbies was composing songs at the piano.

What hobbies / interests do you have outside of school?

I love boats and the sea and have pursued sailing very seriously in the past. I am keen on swimming and getting into the outdoors.