Another day at Lisa Lashes School of Music, and I thank the music gods that I can keep coming back to the school that no-one wants to leave. Watching students develop over the weeks of the course is an inspiration that will stay with me for years. Today I am shadowing one of my current students, Cayden, who may just be the next Ed Sheeran. 17 years old, with a calm and relaxed air, Cayden walks in with a guitar almost as tall as he is. I’ve already listened to one of his tracks this morning, and I am struck by how much potential we have in the next generation. Here is a young man, completely focused on music, churning out tracks and songs that make the hairs on your arms stand up. (Certainly makes you consider your own potential). Here is a course that will help him unlock this potential. Cayden has not had an easy time of it, in and out of mental hospitals, and just generally struggling through, he has found that music is the perfect outlet for him. His inspiration is “making people happy and feeling good about music”, and he wants people to hear his…
Lisa Lashes School of Music has been making (sound) waves over the last year. Opening centres in Northampton and Manchester, with future schools opening in London and Cambridge. In terms of DJing and music production, there is no minimum or maximum age limit, which is why it should be no surprise that the school has graduated a new class of learners. Children need alternative provision. When children are excluded or expelled from school, there is very little to occupy them. This can lead to difficulties in social development, as well as challenges reengaging them back in the academic environment. The School of Music offers an opportunity to learn something completely unique in an environment vastly different from schools. We have seen immense growth in these students, with most now going back into school. Names have been changed to protect the students. When Declan started, he struggled with his temper, had trouble engaging with others his age, and was very reluctant to spend time on any form of assignment. At LLSOM, he has quickly become a top student, thriving in a positive environment, which can devote time to each student. Declan was given an individual learning plan, and we are pleased…