Music Pilot Scheme – Upbeat @ Headspace

25 Jan

Using music to support young people’s mental wellbeing

Headspace is excited to be piloting a new music wellbeing programme, delivered in partnership with Community Albums and led by experienced music practitioner Marc Clifton (aka Rhymeskeemz).

This pilot uses the power of music to support young people who may be struggling with anxiety, low confidence, emotional wellbeing challenges or other pressures. These are not traditional music lessons – sessions are designed to be inclusive, creative and supportive, with no prior musical experience needed.

About the programme

The music pilot provides weekly sessions over 10 weeks, delivered in small groups at Headspace in Bourton-on-the-Water.

Young people will explore:

Digital music and beat-making
Songwriting and lyric development
Recording and basic music production
DJ equipment and creative experimentation

Sessions focus on self-expression, confidence-building and emotional safety, using music as a tool to help young people relax, communicate and feel valued.

Who the programme is for

The pilot is designed for young people who:

Are feeling anxious or overwhelmed
Lack confidence or struggle with self-expression
May be vulnerable or experiencing emotional wellbeing challenges
Would benefit from a creative, non-judgemental environment

No musical background or experience is required. Young people do not need to play an instrument or have used music software before.

Participants will be referred through Headspace in partnership with The Cotswold School.

Our approach

We work in small groups to ensure every young person is known, supported and able to engage at their own pace.

This allows us to offer:

Space to be themselves – young people can share ideas and try new things without pressure
Tailored support – activities are adapted to individual interests and needs
Emotional safety – consistency and trust are prioritised, particularly for those with anxiety or additional needs
Confidence in collaboration – young people contribute at their own level and feel valued
Clear progression – close support helps track growth and celebrate achievements

Where appropriate, participants can also work towards AQA Unit Award Scheme (UAS) accreditation, recognising their progress and achievements.

Meet the facilitator: Marc Clifton (Rhymeskeemz)

Sessions are delivered by Marc Clifton, an acclaimed recording artist and Waves-accredited sound engineer with over 15 years’ experience in music production.

Performing under the name Rhymeskeemz, Marc has supported major artists including Chase & Status and Wu-Tang Clan, with music played on national stations such as BBC Introducing and Kiss FM.

Marc specialises in music production and songwriting, with a passion for Hip Hop, EDM and Drum & Bass, and brings a calm, engaging and youth-centred approach to his work with young people.

About Community Albums

Community Albums was founded in 2011 by award-winning musicians, composers and producers Rob May and Simon Hill.

They are a team of music and media professionals who run creative projects across the UK and internationally, helping people find their voice, build skills and develop confidence through music and media.

Learn more: https://www.communityalbums.com/