A free music tuition project for children from deprived parts of Scotland has received a glowing report for its “potential to transform lives”.
Big Noise, run by Sistema Scotland, operates in four underprivileged areas in the country, including Torry in Aberdeen, and gives youngsters the chance to learn an instrument which would not be affordable for many of the families.
It was reviewed by Education Scotland in April, and the report published yesterday praises examples of “outstanding teaching, strong and effective learning and inclusive opportunities”.
Big Noise provides free music tuition as well as an orchestra programme, to pupils and pre-school children in Torry’s Walker Road and Tullos Primaries.
Nicola Killean, chief executive of the charity Sistema Scotland, behind the project, said: “I am delighted that the Education Scotland report has recognised our key strengths and highlighted the commitment and quality of the staff team and the child-centred approach.
“Big Noise is about using music as a tool to engage with children and young people and it’s the quality of people we recruit and train, and the relationship they build with the children, families and communities that allows us to have maximum impact.”
Aberdeen South MP Ross Thomson said: ““This is a fantastic project that was brought to Aberdeen when I was still a city councillor.
“It has proved to be a great success and helped countless young people in some of the most deprived areas of the city.
“As has been proven elsewhere, this can help build confidence, teach new skills and generally improve the life chances of these pupils. I hope it is a programme that can be replicated in other areas in future.”
