SupaJam

Founded in 2013, SupaJam Education in Music and Media (also known as SupaJam) is an award-winning unique educational provider set up by David Court and Nick Stillwell for students aged 16-18, and 19+ with Special Educational Needs and Educational Health Care Plans.

Our mission is to help vulnerable young people who have previously fallen out of formal education engage, achieve and progress in a unique, inclusive learning environment, with an ethos that is forward-thinking, caring and encouraging whilst providing a structured, supportive and non-judgemental environment, allowing all our young people to thrive and achieve to their full potential. Our expectation is that all SupaJam staff uphold our mission and ethos in every aspect of their roles, championing a respectful and open-minded culture that inspires staff and students alike.

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We use music to engage our learners offering RSL Music Practitioners Diplomas at Levels 1, 2 and 3, alongside Functional Skills, GCSE English & Maths, Work Experience, SMSC, Practical Musicianship and Life Skills Sessions, infused with guest speakers and professionals from within the music industry. 

One of SupaJam’s greatest features is the support students receive. Our dedicated and compassionate team will make sure that your time with us is safe, enjoyable and we will help you as much as we can to ensure your wellbeing and academic needs are met. We support students with various SEN needs as well as those who do not necessarily have any additional needs but create an environment which is designed for all.

Within the classroom, you can expect to see relatively small groups with teachers and support staff who will ensure that your learning needs are met. Outside of the classroom our team of wellbeing staff will help you if you are feeling down or struggling with your emotional needs. One of SupaJam’s three pillars is that we are non-judgemental; we offer support and direction.

Some students may be eligible for bursaries - please check our website to see if you are eligible - https://www.semmuk.com/financial-support. The same applies for free meals (https://www.semmuk.com/free-meals).

For students who have an Education, Health & Care Plan (EHCP), you can expect to see our friendly and supportive SEN team helping you through your journey, making sure you have the right support in place.

We are the only registered SPI provider in Kent (across 2 bases in Swanley and Canterbury) who offers a programme solely for those who have an interest or passion in music. We have access to relevant industry experience for our students, including attending and working at music festivals and work with some of the industry professionals who come to SupaJam to share their journey with the students to provide inspiration and advice. Some of the industry professionals who have visited SupaJam include Guy Pratt, Sonia Leigh, Ric Salmon, Matt Biffa, The Wandering Hearts, Ferris & Sylvester, Gill Tee, Emma Reynolds… Some of their testimonials can be found here https://www.semmuk.com/testimonials-new.

The Black Deer music festival held at Eridge Park in Tunbridge Wells is a highlight of the year. Students will work during the year to understand how a festival operates and learn about some of the roles before putting that into practice at the SupaJam stage within the festival. Yes, we have our own stage which is operated by the professional workers at the festival and students work alongside them to have real, practical experience. Not a fan of country music? Don’t worry, the experience itself is so much more than just the music. The festival has only been running for a couple of years and has already won several awards, and we would love for you to be part of that journey with us!

Sadly, SupaJam does not have any transport facilities; however, where eligible, you can apply for the student bursary for support with transport costs. Learners aged 16-18 who live in Kent may be eligible for the KCC Travel pass (other local authorities may have different protocols - please check directly with them). For learners with an EHCP, you may be eligible for transport to be provided by your local authority.

In all cases, you must check directly with your local authority. The links for SEN learners seeking transport can be found here; https://www.semmuk.com/transport.

The courses are available for students aged 16-18 (Year 12 - 13) without an EHC Plan and 16-25 with an EHC Plan. Those who do not have an EHCP can contact us directly for any questions or queries, including visits of SupaJam. For those who have an EHCP, we are more than happy for you to visit but any placements must be agreed by your placing Local Authority - our SEN Team can talk you through the process.

Due to the current Coronavirus situation, most visits are currently suspended but you can check out our virtual tours here; https://www.semmuk.com/tours.

There are no formal requirements for entry to the Level 1 and 2 programmes; however, we may insist on students beginning at Level 1 if they have no previous experience or qualifications in a relevant music or media based programme. Students wishing to study Level 3 must have achieved, or be working towards, a Level 2 (or equivalent) in English and have achieved a Merit in their Level 2 programme. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you are not sure.