Borders
Neurodiversity
Support for
Young People



Harris Trust Music Programme



Harris Trust is delighted to have the ‘SPaRKs’ and ‘Music with Erin’ sessions running in several schools this academic year. Read on to find out more about them.


We are always happy to discuss any creative music projects that young musicians would like to deliver with our support. Please get in touch via email


S.P.a.R.K.s
Music with Erin
email

S.P.a.R.K.s



Songwriting, Performance and Recording Kickstarter



The SPaRKs (Songwriting, Performance and Recording Kickstarter) Music Project started in 2022 and is aimed at, but not exclusive to, creative students (S3-S6) who are neurodivergent or who may be experiencing difficulties with mental health. The students are offered the opportunity to gain skills relevant to the music industry through workshop-based learning. SPaRKs sessions provide an environment where young people can make connections with others who have a similar interest in music.


The learning is student- centred allowing them to make choices e.g. exploring different genres of music, creating their own set lists. The students are encouraged to take part in a live performance, but the focus is largely about increasing confidence and self-esteem. Currently there are groups at Selkirk High, Jedburgh Community school and an evening session at MacArts. Please get in touch if you would like more information or want to get involved.



Billy Kennedy


Patron of S.P.a.R.K.s



After captivating audiences for years as a key member of the renowned band Frightened Rabbit, musician and songwriter Billy Kennedy has embarked on a new journey with his solo project, Haiver. He emphasises the profound impact of the Harris Trust and S.P.a.R.k.S project on his return to recording and performing, as well as its role in helping him overcome some of his own mental health and anxiety challenges.


A former student of Selkirk High School, Billy was deeply honoured to be invited to serve as the Patron of the S.P.a.R.k.S project last year. He passionately shared his extensive knowledge and experiences in all facets of the music industry, cultivated during his 16-year career as a full-time professional musician. In one-on-one sessions, Billy effectively bolstered the students' confidence and ensured that they found joy in their performances.


Billy firmly believes that project-based learning is invaluable for students and wishes such initiatives had been available during his own school years!


Mat Clements


Manager of SPaRKS



Mat is a performer and educator with 27 years experience of working with a wide variety of groups. He brings his expertise of world percussion - everything from Brazilian samba to African grooves, drum and bass to ceilidh-inspired Scottish jigs. He is a specialist in unusual percussion instruments such as the berimbau, pandeiro, udu, atabaque, timbales and cajon. Mat has performed in most towns and major festivals in the UK, and taken his drumming skills across Europe, the US, China, India and Australia.


Sam Johnston


Tutor and Creator of SPaRKS



Graduating from the Academy of Music and Sound (Glasgow) in 2023, Sam has been working in the contemporary music business as a freelance musician since he was 13 years old. His band'3 out of 4' have toured Scotland and the North of England. Sam has worked on music projects with Sound Cycle, Borders Young Creatives, Live Borders, CABN, Creative Scotland and Hit the Road. Sam brings his experience of being neurodivergent to help other young people increase their confidence and sense of belonging. This is enabled through workshop- style learning and practical experiences relating to the contemporary music industry.