What was my favourite aspect of the course? Getting to understand and know that we can play music without a qualification in it. To feel that we can be inclusive with our children we work with and give them autonomy and independence in playing music. I felt alive and that music really brought us as a group together and showed we can do this within our work place. I felt empowered. I can be a musician! It was very surprising to know how we could make sessions, from a one-to-one to a group. Very interesting.
Making Music with Special Children
Our course helps professionals, parents and carers use music to unlock communication and creativity. The training includes interactive workshops, real-world examples, and take-home resources.
Who is the course for?
The course is open to anyone working with or caring for children who have additional needs, complex needs, or life-shortening illnesses. Whether you’re a musical novice or have some experience you will go away with plenty of ideas and practical techniques that you can start using straight away. Even if you are an accomplished musician, our course will teach you how your skills can be applied in this new context, giving you the confidence to bring your music to children with special educational needs and disabilities.
What will the course cover?
- Exploring musical instruments
- Working with pulse and rhythm
- Singing
- Using iPads for music
- Approaches to working one-to-one
- Working with groups
Who runs the course?
Our tutors
Mark Withers is a clarinettist and creative project leader for orchestras and other organisations around Europe, delivering music projects for children with a wide range of needs, and training those who work with them.He is joined by two extremely talented music therapists Vicky Kammin and Cathy Ibberson, both of whom have an enormous amount of experience, especially of working in children’s hospices.
How much does it cost?
Course fees
Jessie’s Fund subsidises your training, so your contribution for the whole two-day course will be just £95. This includes refreshments and a light lunch on both days.
Book course in York
We are next running our York course in Autumn 2026. It will be open for booking from May 2026.
Book course in London
We are next running our London course in Autumn 2026. It will be open for booking from May 2026.