During my work experience at SupplyWell, I discovered how music can quietly transform the classroom — not just as background noise, but as a powerful tool for focus, wellbeing and connection. With a fresh perspective as both a student and an observer, I’ve seen how music builds trust, celebrates culture, and helps create a stronger sense of community between teachers and learners. If you’re looking for simple, meaningful ways to bring more energy and inclusion into your classroom, this blog might just strike the right chord.
“Music is everybody’s possession”
John Lennon
About the Author: Logan McLellan
Hi, I’m Logan McLellan — a 15 year old high school student currently doing my work experience placement at SupplyWell. I’ve always had a love for music, not just for how it sounds, but for how it makes people feel and brings them together. During my time at SupplyWell, I’ve had the opportunity to see schools from a completely different perspective — not just as a student, but through the eyes of the amazing educators who work every day to create safe, supportive, and inspiring learning spaces.
The Soundtrack to Stronger Classrooms
This blog is my way of exploring how music can play a meaningful role in education — not just as something enjoyable, but as a real tool for connection, focus, and wellbeing. One thing I didn’t expect to notice so clearly during my time at SupplyWell is just how much of a difference music can make in the classroom. Whether it’s used to support learning, lift moods, or bring people together, music is far more than background noise — it’s a bridge between students and teachers, and a way to build stronger, more inclusive relationships.
From boosting focus during quiet tasks to creating a shared energy that helps everyone feel more connected, music has the power to transform the classroom atmosphere. It can support wellbeing, welcome different cultures, and help students feel truly seen. These are the things that matter most — not just to teachers, but to the entire school community. I hope my reflections offer a fresh perspective, and maybe even a few ideas you’ll be inspired to try in your own teaching practice.
Music as a Connector: Building Trust & Shared Moments
One of the most powerful things about music is how it helps people feel connected. For educators, finding a shared musical interest with their students can be a brilliant way to break the ice and build trust. When students hear a teacher mention an artist they love, or play a song that feels familiar, it can shift how they see them — suddenly, the teacher feels more relatable, more real. And when students feel understood or seen, they’re often more likely to listen, to participate, and to respect classroom expectations.
Teachers I’ve spoken to as a student shared how group music activities — like a class playlist, singing sessions, or “song of the week” discussions — can help build community. Students from different year groups or backgrounds can find common ground through shared tastes or musical memories. Music can also encourage creativity and conversation, giving students something to look forward to and bond over. It’s not just about having fun (although that’s important too) — it’s about helping everyone in the room feel like part of a team.
Welcoming Everyone: Music As A Tool For Inclusion
In a classroom full of students from different cultures and backgrounds, music can be a brilliant way to celebrate diversity and create a sense of belonging. When teachers use songs in different languages, or invite students to share music from their culture, they’re sending a powerful message: everyone is welcome here. That kind of inclusion builds confidence and helps students take pride in who they are.
It also opens up learning opportunities. In one lesson, me and the class learned about using African drumming to teach rhythm and teamwork — not just as a music lesson, but as a way to explore cultural heritage and community values. Another talked about playing bilingual songs and asking students to explain the lyrics, which led to wider discussions about language, identity, and storytelling. These moments help students see themselves reflected in their learning and encourage curiosity about each other’s lives. Music makes that possible — without needing fancy tools or extra budget.
Real Stories: How Educators Use Music Every Day
When I asked educators how they use music in their classrooms or in their own lives, I was amazed by the variety of answers — but also by the shared belief that music makes things better. One teacher said they always play a quiet playlist while setting up their classroom in the morning. It helps them feel grounded and calm before the day begins. Another explained how their Year 6 class listens to a certain piano piece every day during independent work — and how students now associate that tune with being calm and focused.
Some teachers said they use music to manage transitions — like playing the same song at the end of every day to signal tidy-up time or home time. Others said that when stress levels rise (for teachers or students), music can bring everyone back into a better headspace. Even short bursts of music in the day can boost morale, regulate energy, and remind everyone to breathe.
“Everybody’s Possession”: Why Music Belongs to Us All
Music is everywhere — in every culture, every classroom, every person. Like John Lennon said, “music is everybody’s possession.” And in schools, it has the power to do so much more than fill silence. It can build bridges between students and teachers, create calm when things feel overwhelming, and make everyone feel like they belong. Whether you’re an educator looking for new ways to connect with your class or a student who finds comfort in a favourite song, music has something to offer you. So why not press play — and see what kind of difference it could make in your school community?
Soundtrack Your School Day: Music for Energy, Calm & Connection
While writing this blog, I created a playlist that captures everything I’ve learned about how music can shape the mood of a classroom — from boosting focus to building stronger connections between teachers and students.
It’s called “Music for Energy, Calm & Connection”, and it features a mix of uplifting anthems, relaxed acoustic tracks, and soul-infused classics — including artists from the North West and beyond, like The Beatles, Bob Dylan, Oasis, and Northern Soul favourites. The flow moves from chilled to energising, then winds back down again — just like a school day.
Whether you’re planning lessons, powering through a busy afternoon, or taking a well-earned break, there’s something here to match the moment.
Press play, feel the rhythm, and let the music do what it does best — bring people together. –> press here
Share your musical moments!
Have you used music in your classroom to support learning, mood or connection? We’d love to hear from you.