Mission, Vision and Strategy

AOTOS envisions a United Kingdom in which singing is an accessible, valued and lifelong activity for all. Read more about our mission, values and strategy below.

New Strategy

As part of our constitutional and organisational development this year, the trustees have been shaping a strategy for the continued work of the association. In line with our core governance responsibilities as trustees, we have identified three core areas for AOTOS, organisational governance, finance, and EEDI, and developed five goals to guide our work in each area. These support the enactment of our charitable aims, which can be viewed in our revised constitutional document.

Below you can see an outline of our core mission, vision and values, as well as the strategic goals.

AOTOS’ Charitable Objects, Mission and Vision

The Association of Teachers of Singing is the UK’s leading organisation for singing teachers.

Any singing teacher who is serious about the quality of their teaching skills, who is open to the possibility of extending their knowledge, and who is willing to listen to the opinions and experiences of others, is welcome to join AOTOS.

AOTOS is a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO). Its CIO number is 1190787.

Mission Statement

The object of the CIO is for the public benefit to advance education in the teaching of singing and connected subjects in particular, but without prejudice to the generality of the foregoing, by:

(1) bringing together teachers of singing and other interested persons at annual national conferences and regional events;

(2) providing, or assisting in the provision of, teacher training initiatives and courses; and

(3) disseminating knowledge of the practice and theory of the teaching of singing by the sub-clauses (1) and (2) of this clause and by such other means as the charity trustees shall from time to time consider appropriate.

As a charitable organisation, AOTOS provides a supportive, collaborative community that promotes best practice, shares current research in voice and teaching pedagogy, and fosters inclusive, healthy approaches to the art and science of singing. Through conferences, training, resources and networking opportunities, AOTOS empowers teachers across all styles and stages of their careers to enhance their expertise for the wider public benefit.

Vision

AOTOS envisions a United Kingdom in which singing is an accessible, valued and lifelong activity for all. We aspire to see individuals of every age and background actively engaging in singing within schools, charities, community groups and professional settings. Central to this vision is the presence of highly skilled, well-qualified and continually developing teachers of singing across all sectors, ensuring safe, inclusive and inspiring vocal education that enriches individuals and strengthens communities nationwide. It is our vision that every singing teacher in the UK is a member of AOTOS and supported by our CPD, networking and advocacy work.

AOTOS’ Values

The work and mission of AOTOS is underpinned by three core values:

Curiosity

Curiosity lies at the heart of effective teaching and lifelong learning in singing. As teachers of singing, we recognise that the voice is a complex and evolving instrument, shaped by physiology, psychology, culture, and individual experience. Curiosity invites us to remain open, questioning, and reflective in our work with singers. By valuing curiosity, we commit to continually exploring new ideas, pedagogical approaches, and research that deepen our understanding of the voice and the learning process. Curiosity encourages us to listen attentively to our students, to our colleagues, and to emerging knowledge across disciplines such as vocal science, performance practice, and education.

Inclusion

Inclusion is central to the work of the association and all teachers of singing. Singing is both an individual and a shared human practice, and the teaching of singing flourishes within a supportive and connected professional environment. As members of the UK Association of Teachers of Singing, we value the diverse relationships that sustain learning, collaboration, and professional growth. By valuing inclusion, we commit to creating spaces where teachers and singers of all intersectional backgrounds and musical genres and traditions feel welcomed, respected, and supported. We recognise that our collective knowledge is strengthened when we share ideas, experiences, and challenges openly with colleagues from diverse areas of expertise.

Collaboration

Collaboration is fundamental to the advancement of singing teaching and learning. As members of the UK Association of Teachers of Singing, we recognise that the complex and multifaceted nature of the voice benefits from shared knowledge, diverse perspectives, and collective inquiry. By valuing collaboration, we commit to working constructively with colleagues, researchers, performers, and professionals across related disciplines. Through dialogue and partnership, we expand our understanding of vocal pedagogy, vocal health, performance practice, and singer development.