“We’re delighted to be involved in this initiative, with our young people receiving pipes and drums tuition. We’re acutely aware of the benefits for young people who play in a band: teamwork, resilience and discipline are just some of the transferable skills gained, which will help in academic study and future careers.”

Andy Smith, Head Teacher, Larkhall Academy

“Young people of all ages and all abilities have benefited immeasurably from the pipe band programme at Prestonpans schools. Not only do students learn the skills of piping and/ or drumming, but they also learn many complex skills, such as teamwork, resilience, flexibility and self discipline.”

Gavin Clark, Head Teacher, Preston Lodge High School

“I’ve seen kids come in here with no self confidence and witnessed the changes that learning an instrument can bring about. It’s amazing to see what piping and drumming can do – learning a skill, making friendships that will last a lifetime, being part of something.”

Iain Watson – Piping Tutor, Govan Schools

“SSPDT have been fundamental in the success of the project and the inclusion of all the young people learning the pipes and drums.”

Ian Broughton, Former Chair, Garnock Valley Pipes and Drums

“In my past role as a head teacher I have seen how a pipe band not only develops the skills for life, learning and work, but can also help to close the attainment gap.”

Andrew Ritchie, Lead Officer for Developing the Young Workforce in Aberdeenshire and former head teacher of Banff Academy

 

“I am absolutely thrilled with the progress that every student has made over the last year and I am really looking forward to what this year will bring. I fully anticipate to have a small drum corps formed during this time and will continually strive to achieve the very best for the Pilrig Park High School project.”

David Murray – Drumming Tutor 

“We firmly believe our Pipes and Drums project will become a major asset to the wider achievement of all schools involved. We are indebted to SSPDT for their support and willingness to believe in our project and for their continued guidance.”

Head of Expressive Arts, John Paul Academy, Glasgow

“There is a great desire for tuition in the area and the funding from SSPDT will allow us to deliver this to our eager, and talented, young people!”

Alison MacBride, Fèis an Tairbeirt

“Not only does the programme develop musical talent, it is very encouraging to see new friendships being formed and pupils are increasingly developing in confidence.”

Fiona Caldwell, Piping Tutor, Lossiemouth and District Schools Pipes and Drums Band

“Historically Whitehill has been extremely difficult to get take-up for instruments like strings or brass. The pipes and drums programme is oversubscribed with over 100 pupils wanting to join in. Take-up is excellent and we’ve not had any drop-outs… the children are sticking with it.”

Pam Black , Manager of Glasgow City Council Instrumental Music Service

We haven't yet made any grants towards tuition, or loaned bagpipes in this region but we are keen to help! Contact us here: [email protected]


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