§ Bob RussellTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what his policy is towards including the promotion of English folk songs and English folk dances in the school curriculum; and if he will make a statement. [131611]
§ Mr. MilibandWe believe that a broad range of high quality music and dance experiences should be available to all our young people, whatever their background and wherever they live.
Opportunities for pupils to sing, dance and make music from a range of times, places and cultures are firmly embedded within the National Curricula for Music and Physical Education. In England, we have a rich folk tradition which teachers can draw upon. However, it is for the individual teacher to select their repertoire, based on their own professional judgement and expertise.