Music tech investment for children with SEND

A significant investment of £90,000 has been made to provide adaptive musical instruments for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). This initiative, led by the Oxfordshire County Council, aims to enhance the educational experience of these children by making musical instruments available in schools and community settings throughout the academic year. The instruments will include the latest music technology and a variety of instruments from different cultures around the world. Lisa Lyons, the director of children services at the council, emphasized the positive impact these instruments can have on children who experience high levels of anxiety. She stated that the instruments would be particularly effective in calming these children and helping them to express their emotions through music. One of the innovative instruments included in this program is a joystick that allows children to perform and compose music. This instrument is especially beneficial for students who use wheelchairs or have limited mobility, as it provides them with an opportunity to engage with music in a way that is accessible to them. Additionally, there are instruments that light up when played, and some that produce music when balls bounce on them. These interactive features are designed to make music more engaging and enjoyable for children. John Howson, the council's cabinet member for children, education, and young people's services, expressed his enthusiasm for the program, stating that it would help unlock the potential of children to express themselves creatively through music. He noted that the local authority is excited to expand this program in response to requests from young people, families, and education professionals. Ms. Lyons also highlighted the importance of these instruments for children with limited verbal communication skills. She explained that music can serve as a powerful tool for these children to make friends and share their feelings. The Rav Drum and Indian shruti boxes were mentioned as examples of instruments that produce therapeutic sounds, which can be particularly beneficial for children who may struggle with verbal communication. The full range of instruments is expected to arrive over the next couple of months, and the funding for this initiative has been made possible through investment from Arts Council England. This investment represents a commitment to supporting children with special needs and ensuring they have access to the resources they need to thrive in their educational environments. The council is eager to see the positive impact this program will have on the lives of children with SEND, providing them with new opportunities to explore music and express themselves in meaningful ways.