Justin McKee receives 2025 MTA NSW Excellence in Music Teaching Award

Justin McKee, founder of MJ Music Training, has been honoured with the 2025 MTA NSW Excellence in Teaching Award for Community Engagement. The award was presented at the Music Teacher Matters: Innovate, Lead, Inspire Conference on Sunday, 12 October 2025, recognising his outstanding dedication to music education, especially his decades-long commitment to creating accessible and inclusive opportunities for all students—particularly neurodivergent learners.

"I am incredibly humbled by this recognition," Justin shares. "This award celebrates the exceptional work of music teachers across NSW who demonstrate commitment, passion, and innovation. To be counted among them is truly a career highlight."

"A huge thank you to the Music Teachers' Association of NSW for this incredible honour," Justin says. "And to the wonderful students, teachers, and families who inspire me everyday to strive for deeper understanding, continuous improvement and the joy of sharing knowledge."

The MTA NSW Excellence in Teaching Award stands as the highest honour for music educators in New South Wales, celebrating teachers who go above and beyond to provide high-quality education and foster vibrant, inclusive communities through music. Recipients are selected by a panel from the Music Teachers' Association of NSW for their profound impact, innovative teaching, and commitment to community engagement.

A career built on inclusion

Justin's journey began at Newcastle Conservatorium in 1994. While working in the United Kingdom, he established a music program at St. Stephen's Church of England School in West London—a school serving a low socio-economic area that was at risk of closure. As Music Director, he also helped found the Hammersmith and Fulham Youth Ensemble, a program that provided 600 underprivileged students with instruments, free tuition, and ensemble experiences through grant funding.

Through his role, Justin empowered young people who otherwise might never have had the opportunity to learn music. Students in the Youth Ensemble performed at high-profile events including the Lyric Theatre Celebration in Hammersmith and the National Lottery Conference. Their achievements extended beyond the school, with the program featured on BBC News as an example of best practice in music education.

Championing neurodivergent learners

Since 2020 Justin has focused his energy on addressing the needs of neurodivergent students in music education. Drawing on his own experience as a neurodivergent individual, he developed innovative learning programs for students informed by health professionals and tailored to each student's strengths.

His creative methods—including demonstrations, aural work, and creative visual cues—empower neurodivergent students to thrive in environments that value creativity and self-expression. Justin believes all students benefit when they're encouraged to be themselves and reach their fullest potential. This student-centred approach is precisely the kind of excellence the MTA NSW award aims to spotlight, as it encapsulates both innovation in teaching and a powerful commitment to equity.

Training educators across NSW

Recognising the growing demand for practical teaching strategies for neurodiversity, Justin expanded his reach by training other music educators. He has equipped 270 music tutors at Sydney Catholic Education and many more throughout Sydney and Newcastle with the practical tools to teach inclusively. His impact continues through his role as a Music Specialist in Inclusion classes across schools, directly improving access and engagement for neurodivergent learners.

Justin's commitment to community engagement extends even further. Through collaborations with Inner West Council, he has sponsored outdoor concerts, providing neurodivergent students with opportunities to perform and connect with their communities. This work was recognised with a Community Recognition Award in December 2022 for Outstanding Contribution to the Summer Hill community from the Local Member for Summer Hill.

Lasting impact and community engagement

Justin’s extensive service exemplifies the values at the heart of the MTA NSW Excellence in Teaching Award—sustained impact, creativity, and an unwavering dedication to making music education accessible for everyone. The award also places strong emphasis on the broader role of teachers in shaping society, not just classrooms.Through MJ Music Training, ongoing workshops, and future conference presentations, Justin continues to lead with innovation and empathy. He inspires both students and fellow educators, modelling how inclusive teaching can transform individual lives and enrich entire communities.

For more information about the MTA NSW Excellence in Teaching Awards visit the MTA NSW Excellence in Teaching Awards page.

Media contact: Justin McKee 0404 824 020