SEND Music & Creative Programmes
Different needs. Same opportunity.
Inclusive music education, creative experiences
and professional studio opportunitiesfor young people aged 11–18.
Discover, Develop, Create, Experience & Progress
Every young person should have the opportunity to explore their creativity, discover their interests and develop new skills.
At Starcity Studios, we believe music and creative technology can open doors for young people with different abilities, learning styles and support requirements.
Our SEND Music & Creative Programmes provide practical, engaging and inclusive opportunities for young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) to explore music, recording, music production and the wider creative industries.
Based at Starcity Studios in Sutton, Surrey, we work with schools, specialist education providers, families and organisations to create experiences that recognise individual needs, encourage creative expression and support personal development.
Our approach is learner-led, flexible and designed around the individual rather than expecting every student to learn in the same way.
A different approach to music education
We understand that every young person has their own interests, strengths, communication preferences and learning requirements.
For some, that might mean exploring sounds and instruments. For others, it could mean creating music digitally, recording vocals, experimenting with technology or working collaboratively on a creative project.
We aim to create an environment where young people can participate in ways that work for them.
Our programmes can be adapted to consider:
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Individual learning preferences and abilities.
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Sensory sensitivities and environmental requirements.
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Different communication styles.
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The pace and structure of activities.
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Familiarity with music and technology.
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Individual interests, strengths and creative ambitions.
We work with families, teachers, SEND coordinators and support professionals to understand what will help each participant get the most from their experience.
What can students experience?
Our programmes introduce young people to a range of creative activities using music, sound and professional studio technology.
Music Creation & Production
Explore how music is made using digital audio workstations, virtual instruments, samples and accessible creative technology. Students can experiment with sounds, rhythms and musical ideas to create their own compositions.
Recording Studio Experience
Discover how a professional recording studio works. Explore microphones, recording equipment and the process of capturing vocals and instruments in a studio environment.
Sound Exploration & Creative Expression
Experiment with rhythm, sound, instruments and audio technology. Activities encourage curiosity, creativity and individual expression, with opportunities to explore different ways of making and experiencing sound.
Collaborative Music Making
Take part in supported creative activities, developing ideas individually or alongside other participants. Students can explore teamwork, listening, sharing ideas and contributing to a group project.
Music Technology & Digital Creativity
Discover how technology can be used to create, manipulate and record sound. Activities can be adapted to introduce different tools, interfaces and methods of interaction.
Creative Careers & Studio Experience
For students interested in exploring future opportunities, we can introduce the different roles within the music and creative industries, from music production and recording to sound design, studio operations and artist development.
How our programmes work
We recognise that a single approach will not suit every learner. Our delivery is therefore flexible and can be developed around the needs of the students and the objectives of the school or organisation.
We can explore several delivery formats:
Introductory Workshops
One-off creative sessions introducing students to music production, recording, instruments and sound exploration. These provide an opportunity to experience the activities and discover individual interests.
Small Group Programmes
Structured sessions for small groups, allowing students to participate in practical activities with guidance and support. Group size and delivery arrangements are considered according to the needs of the participants.
Term-Time Programmes
Ongoing creative education delivered over a series of weeks. Rather than treating music as a one-off activity, students have the opportunity to return, build familiarity, develop their skills and explore new creative challenges over time.
Holiday Programmes
Creative activities and music experiences delivered during school holidays, offering young people opportunities to explore music and technology outside the classroom.
Individual Creative Sessions
Where appropriate, we can discuss individual sessions designed around a participant's interests, learning preferences and support requirements.
School and Organisation Partnerships
We work with schools, specialist education providers, youth organisations and other partners to explore bespoke programmes that complement existing education and support provision.
An environment designed around the learner
We understand that every young person has their own interests, strengths, communication preferences and learning requirements.
For some, that might mean exploring sounds and instruments. For others, it could mean creating music digitally, recording vocals, experimenting with technology or working collaboratively on a creative project.
We aim to create an environment where young people can participate in ways that work for them.
Our programmes can be adapted to consider:
-
Individual learning preferences and abilities.
-
Sensory sensitivities and environmental requirements.
-
Different communication styles.
-
The pace and structure of activities.
-
Familiarity with music and technology.
-
Individual interests, strengths and creative ambitions.
We work with families, teachers, SEND coordinators and support professionals to understand what will help each participant get the most from their experience.
Schools, Families and Organisations
We welcome conversations with:
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Special schools and specialist education providers.
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Mainstream schools and SEND departments.
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Alternative provision settings.
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Colleges and post-16 education providers.
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Local authorities and youth services.
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Charities and organisations supporting young people with additional needs.
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Parents, carers and families.
We understand the importance of working collaboratively with those who know the young person best.
Our aim is to complement existing education and support provision by introducing practical music and creative experiences that may not always be available within a traditional classroom environment.
Get in Touch
Every young person is different, and we'd love to understand how we can support yours.
Whether you're a parent, school, SEND professional or organisation, get in touch to discuss our inclusive music programmes, workshops and partnership opportunities.
We'll be happy to explore your requirements and find an approach that works for you.