Major Works partner supports Newham children through music
Major Works partner supports Newham children through music
Music is creating opportunities for children in Newham, thanks to the support of Durkan Regen, one of L&Q’s Major Works Investment Programme (MWIP) partners.
As part of the MWIP, partners work with L&Q to deliver social value for residents and their communities.
Durkan Regen is doing this by supporting music education at Gallions Primary School, located near L&Q’s Beckton office.
Durkan Regen has committed to a £5,000 bursary for at least five years to support music education at Gallions. This funding will provide:
- Access to weekly music lessons for all students
- Instrument tuition for all year 2-6 learners
- Free 1:1 after-school tuition for 30 kids
- Pan-London choir competitions
- LSO & Trinity Laban workshops
But the support goes further than lessons. It is also helping to provide:
- Tailored musical provision for children with autism spectrum disorder
- Opportunities for non verbal children to play instruments – and even sing
- Chances to take part in events such as the BBC Proms
- Access to graded music exams, with four double bass students already achieving distinctions at Grades 1–3
One of Gallions’ pupils said:
“I started in junior orchestra and now I’m in senior orchestra. We get to play more complex pieces and have more opportunities to explore different music.
I used to struggle with moving my fingers on the strings, but with lots of practice, it has become much easier. I’ve performed at many concerts, and my next one if the spring concert”.
Gallions serves a diverse community, with 38 per cent of pupils eligible for Free School Meals and 29 per cent with Special Educational Needs.
Music plays an important role in helping children build confidence, express themselves and work together.
Improving access to music, helps ensure every child has the chance to explore, create and thrive.
By supporting music education at Gallions, Durkan Regen is helping children in Newham gain valuable skills and experiences that might otherwise be out of reach.
Kevin O’Connor, Head of Social Value at Durkan Regen, said:
“Through our partnership with L&Q, we’re proud to make a long-term commitment to Gallions Primary School through this five-year programme of support.
For us, social value is about creating lasting impact, and by investing in music education over time, we can help ensure every child has consistent access to opportunities to learn, grow and express themselves.
It’s incredibly rewarding to see how this sustained support is already building confidence, creativity and aspiration across the school community.”
Mark Newstead, Director of Major Programmes at L&Q, said:
“Durkan Regen’s involvement in providing high quality music opportunities for young people is an inspiring example of the social value we aim to deliver for the communities that residents live in.
We’re proud that the Major Works Investment Programme is playing a part in helping to shape futures.”