BAMT is pleased to announce the publication of a new Clinical Career Framework for Art, Drama, and Music Therapists, created to provide the essential underpinning support that is needed for an invaluable and underutilised workforce.
In July 2024, BAMT began working alongside BAAT and BADth on series of workstreams supported with funding from Health Education England, designed to support and elevate the Art, Drama, and Music Therapist professions.
A fundamental aim was to collaboratively develop a clear Clinical Career Framework which supports Art, Drama, and Music Therapists and employers to better understand how skills and knowledge develop across a career within these professions. Also, to enable those working at a pre-registration and post registration level to be able to achieve their potential, in the way that fits their changing aspirations and circumstances, across the different stages of their career.
It is important to emphasise that this framework looks at a clinical levels of practice only. NHS England recognise that there are different management and strategic roles Art, Drama and Music Therapists can work within, but these require a different skill set from those included in this resource.
This Framework has been co-created by and for Art, Drama, and Music Therapists and is designed to showcase the skills, competencies and attributes of professionals at different stages in their career. It is a document where existing knowledge, skills and experience are recognised, and where opportunities for further learning and professional development needs can be identified, at all career levels, across all sectors, including the statutory, community, voluntary and private sectors. It is recommended that the professional bodies review this document every two years to ensure it is up to date.
You can download the full document here.
Karen Diamond, BAMT’s Director of Public Affairs, said:
“While written from a NHS perspective, the Career Development Framework recognises that many Music Therapists work in education, voluntary sector, and private practice. Regardless of where we work, we still require the knowledge, skills and attributes to carry out our roles, leading to better outcomes for the people we work with. This is its first iteration and I have no doubt as we continue to evolve and develop in our practice, the knowledge and skills will change over time.
Thanks to the Music Therapists who were part of the working group and the final focus group who gave their advice, time and input leading to the final document."
Project Members for the Clinical Career Framework:
• Karen Diamond BAMT (Chair)
• Clare Hubbard (BADth)
• Claire Louise Vaculik (BAAT)
New film content highlighting career stories
As part of the project, we’re also pleased to launch new film content featuring Art, Drama, and Music Therapists sharing their insights and experiences, to inspire others as they navigate their careers.
One film focuses on insights shared by experienced role models in the professions, while the other explores what happens beyond the therapy room.
We highly recommend watching both videos and sharing them with your networks to help spread the word, inspire others and deepen public understanding about Art, Drama, and Music Therapy careers.
If you have any questions about the Clinical Career Framework or our involvement in these NHS England workstreams, don’t hesitate to get in touch with the BAMT team.