Using music
Plymouth Music Zone offers open access and targeted music-based activities for young people. It covers different music styles and cultural traditions. One of its target groups is young people at risk (excluded from school or at risk of this, young people in pupil referral units, and young offenders).
Staff are musicians who can engage with young people. Some are from diverse or challenging backgrounds themselves, and can act as role models. They put young people at the centre of learning by giving them the flexibility to develop their own music interests.
The project uses Facebook and MySpace to communicate with participants.
Sessions take place during holidays, after school, and on Saturdays at different venues. Around 20 young people attend each session, with a balance between young men and young women. There is no charge for the young people attending. Each session costs about £75 an hour.
Young people are positive about attending the project. They feel they are making progress with their musical and personal skills.