About us
Our story
iRock School of Music was founded in 2017 by father and son, John and Josh Franklin. The iRock journey began with Josh’s childhood experiences—he found school challenging while navigating ADHD, but music became a transformative and positive force in his life.
Founder Josh Franklin’s educational journey came with challenges, like those faced by many children. Struggling with concentration and consistency, his ADHD diagnosis helped some teachers better understand his needs. However, like many neurodiverse children, he often found traditional classroom settings difficult, as they weren’t always designed to support different ways of learning.
A turning point came when Josh discovered a passion for music, thanks to a teacher who took a different approach. Instead of relying on sheet music, they introduced him to simple chords that allowed him to accompany his singing. For the first time, he experienced a way of learning that truly worked for him—one that was hands-on, intuitive and expressive. This defining moment transformed Josh’s school life; he began performing in concerts and school productions, growing in confidence, and thriving in ways no one had expected.
Josh went on to study music at university before working on recording projects for TV. While teaching on the side, he discovered a true passion—not just for music, but for inspiring and engaging children in a way that made learning enjoyable and accessible. Seeing how music could unlock confidence and creativity in young people, he recognised the need for a fresh approach to music education. At 24, he founded iRock School of Music from his family home. With the support of his business-minded father, John Franklin, what started in a garden shed has grown into a programme that now brings the joy of music to tens of thousands of children every single week.
The iRock difference
At iRock, our commitment to excellence drives us to continuously improve and enhance our program, ensuring that every child, school, and family enjoys the full iRock experience. We are dedicated to creating an environment where students thrive musically and personally, year after year.
Our service
Once established in a primary school, parents pay a monthly subscription service that includes at least 33 sessions per academic year, including three show-stopping performances at the end-of-term.
Our coaches
Our Band Coaches have a multi-layered support network that means that if your school's coach is on holiday or absent for any reason, there is cover in place to ensure that band sessions are rarely missed, or are made up at a later date.
Our lessons
Our band lessons are focused on developing confidence and musical ability in children, and each end-of-term concert is a true celebration of the incredible growth of each child. Families consistently feedback to us about the amazing experience of seeing their once-shy child full of pride and beaming with confidence at their concerts.
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Hundreds of UK primary schools
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Thousands of iRockers
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97% children achieve exam-free qualification
Choosing an Instrument
iRock bands can have up to nine members and are made up of a combination of Electric Guitars, Drums, Keyboards and Vocals.
In-school band lessons that are fun, creative and affordable
Our weekly 30-minute band sessions happen within the school day. We look after everything and even supply all of the instruments. It could not be easier. Band members are grouped by similar ages and year groups. Band sizes are capped at nine to ensure everyone receives the very best learning experience. We create an environment where every child can flourish.
Ages
Reception - Year 6
(Depending on the school)
Dates
Sep. 01 - Jul. 31
(Depending on school holidays)
Schedule
Monday - Friday
(Once a week, during lessons)
Band sizes
Up to 9 students per band
(All similar year groups)
How children benefit from iRock
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Gives confidence
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Creates new friendships
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Boosts wellbeing
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Supports teamwork
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Improves memory
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Develops social skills
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Develops academic progress
Get in touch
Got a question? Visit our contact page to find quick answers, or send us a message.