It's a proud moment for our town: The Priory School in Hitchin has been named a finalist in the national Music & Drama Education Awards 2026 for Outstanding School Music Department.

The school is joined in the spotlight by another Hertfordshire finalist, adding to a wave of celebration for the performing arts in our county. 

The awards – designed to honour remarkable contributions to music and drama education nation-wide – have recognised the county's commitment to inclusive and imaginative arts teaching. 

Hitchin's moment in the spotlight

For Hitchin, having The Priory School selected as a finalist means recognition beyond the classroom. The school is already one of Hertfordshire's Lead Schools for Music, and here in Hitchin, it's known for its vibrant music groups, engagement with the wider community and giving youngsters a strong creative outlet. 

In the words of Ben Stevens, Music Director for the county's Hertfordshire Music Service (HMS):

"HMS has remained a national leader in inclusive music making, … It is also fantastic to see Hertfordshire schools being recognised for music and drama education." 

That sentiment brings home what the nomination means not just to The Priory but to the wider community: that young people in Hitchin have access to high-quality musical teaching and performance opportunities.

County-wide achievement

Hertfordshire's success doesn't end at Hitchin. The county's HMS team is also a finalist — for the "Rocksteady Award for Progressive and Inclusive Music Education" thanks to its "HertsArts" programme, which works closely with the Hertfordshire Virtual School to make sure children in care have access to music. 

Another local finalist: The Marlborough Science Academy in St Albans is shortlisted for Outstanding School Drama Department. 

County councillor Mark Watkin (Executive Member for Education, SEND and Inclusion) put it succinctly:

"The work … week in, week out, is nothing short of extraordinary … I am delighted that the quality of educational experience children and young people receive from our county services has been recognised in this way." 

Why it matters for Hitchin families

For parents and pupils in Hitchin, the nomination signals strong arts provision which many consider essential for well-rounded educational development. It reaffirms Hitchin's identity not just as a historic market town but as one that fosters creative expression and opportunity for young people.

The winners of the Music & Drama Education Awards 2026 are due to be announced in London in February 2026.  In the meantime, The Priory School will be building on its success, and Hitchin can watch with pride.