'Drumming lessons give autistic pupils confidence'
BBCA school for autistic children has said a drumming project has improved pupils' confidence and self-esteem.
Church Lawton School, near Stoke, took part in the Clem Burke Drumming Project - a six‑week research programme originally set up by Blondie drummer Clem Burke to explore how drumming can support health, wellbeing and behaviour
The work at the school culminated in an open day and performances to invited guests.
"They've learnt drumming over six weeks, a new skill - some of them have never drummed before - and overcome the worry of trying a new skill," said deputy principal Karen Woodall.
"They've been absolutely engaged with the project… they've had two lessons a week.
"For a lot of them, it'll be a skill they take forwards."
Woodall said she had seen a difference in the pupils' "confidence, their self-esteem, and their willingness to have a go at different things".
She added: "If they're having a day when they're feeling quite anxious, the drumming has allowed them to de-stress, regulate, and then they can go and do other lessons."
The school has kept drum kits used in the project, which Woodall said would allow work to continue.
"We can have more lessons, more students can have that opportunity, and we're also going to be performing at the Royal Cheshire Show."
Drummer Josh Devine knows more than a thing or two about the instrument - he plays professionally and has worked with the likes of Skepta and One Direction.
"I didn't know what to expect, I didn't know what was going to happen - it was a really happy surprise to see everybody get stuck in," he said of the first session.
"I always loved seeing the next generation of kids playing, especially with the drumming, seeing people's faces change and light up when they sit behind the kit, or they first get the beat they're trying to do, it's just magical.
"Some were nervous, some were ready, but afterwards all of their faces were like: 'I did it, this is amazing'."
He added: "I'm so stoked that they get to experience this."
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