Music project youngsters now on top note for a job
8:52am Friday 1st March 2013 in Local
AFTER hitting the right note by preventing youngsters dropping out of school, Harmony Project is now helping them get on the career ladder — while still in class.
The Halliwell organisation has already established a reputation for using music and creative media to help young people who are thought to be “at risk” of becoming NEET — not in education, employment or training.
Now, it is offering taster courses and qualifications in different trades including carpet fitting, electrical work, tiling and carpentry.
It has expanded into another unit, and will continue to attract young people through music, dance and film-making, while introducing them to trades to encourage them to go on to further education.
Project manager Charlie Barratt said: “We will still keep the music and creative media for young people, but we want to be able to introduce them to a broader range of courses.
“This way they can have a taste of the different trades, find out what they are interested in and if they have a flair for it.
“We have strong links with Bolton College and the idea is for the young people to continue into further education. The courses are accredited and for some of the teenagers it will be the only accreditation they leave with.”
The idea is for children at risk of expulsion or not settled at school to attend Harmony Project for a few days at week while continuing their academic qualifications.
Mr Barratt, a former council youth worker, set up Harmony Youth Project in 2001.
He said young people “engage” with the project because it is not like school.
Mr Barratt added: “It is less informal, and we have very good tutors who encourage the young people and raise their confidence.”
The new unit is being revamped and, once completed, the courses will start.
