Whatwillyoufindinside?
03.
AMESSAGEFROMOURCEOS
Anintroductiontoour communityandourCEOs, alongwithawarmwelcome toallparents.
04. BLACKHISTORYMONTH
Adiscussionofthe significanceofBlackHistory Month,aswellasalookat howallourbaseshave commemoratedthisevent andbroughtawarenessofthe month.
HIGHLIGHTSOFTHISTERM’S ACTIVITIES
Aglimpseintotheexciting activitieshappeningacross thebasesthisterm, showcasingalltheamazing thingsourstudentshavebeen involvedin.
06.
STUDENTSPOTLIGHT:INDEPENDENT PROJECTS&STUDENTARTICLES
Discovertheimpressive independentprojectsand articlescraftedbyour talentedstudents, highlightingtheircreativity anduniqueperspectives!
07. DEPARTMENTUPDATES
Findthelatestupdatesfrom ourdifferent departments, including ourradioand importantinformationfor studentsapplyingforunithis year!
08. KEYDATES
Markyourcalendars—exciting eventsandkeydatesare comingupinthenextterm!
Hello and welcome to the first SupaJam Zine the year! A big welcome to new parents and guardians! We hope the young person in your care has settled in, made friends, and discovered that SupaJam offers a unique and successful approach to education.
Nick and I started SupaJam in 2013 after reflecting on our own experiences in school. Back then, there weren’t many alternatives for those who didn’t fit the mainstream model, so we decided to create our own!
Over the past 11 years, we’ve been incredibly proud of SupaJam’s growth, thanks largely to our amazing staff and their caring, supportive approach. Your encouragement and feedback, positive and constructive, have also been invaluable in making each SupaJam College an even better place to learn.
Some highlights? Being the first Specialist College in the county to achieve a GOOD rating from Ofsted and meeting the King to discuss SupaJam’s success! But the greatest joy comes when we see our students “get it” achieving their goals and overcoming challenges. That feeling inspires us to dream bigger for them.
Have a wonderful half term break, and best wishes from both of us!
David Court and Nick Stillwell
TheStartofTerm...
AND WE’RE BACK!
We’re thrilled to kick off this academic year with our very first Parents’ Zine. Think of this as your go-to source to find out about all the incredible things our students are up to every day! Our aim is to keep you connected and informed about the vibrant community your young adults are a part of.
In these pages, you’ll find updates on exciting events, helpful resources, and everything you need to support your kids on their journey. From student forums to engaging gigs, we’re dedicated to showcasing the diverse experiences that enrich our students’ lives.
This term has already been bustling with activity! Our student forum reps were elected across our SupaJam Colleges. Students have been diving headfirst into the theory behind the music industry, honing their practical skills and unleashing their creativity as they begin to shape the sounds of tomorrow! All three colleges have settled into college life, from lunch clubs and musical trips, to gigs and guest speakers, our term has kicked off to an incredible start.
CelebratingandCommemorating BlackHistoryMonthatSupaJam
BlackHistoryMonthiscelebrated eachOctobertohonourthe contributionsandachievementsof Blackindividualsandcommunities throughouthistory.Itservesasa timeforreflectionandeducation aboutthevitalrolesthatBlack figureshaveplayedinshaping society.Thismonthencourages opendialogueabouttheongoing strugglesagainstracismand promotesdiversityandinclusion. SupajamCollegescelebratedkey dateswitheventsanddiscussions thathonourandinspire appreciationforthisrichcultural heritage!
At SupaJam, our students are delving into the lives of significant figures and key events, enriching their understanding of the Black experience. This year, we’re excited to offer a variety of engaging activities, discussions and events that celebrate diversity, promote awareness, and strengthen our sense of community.
To celebrate Black History Month, SupaJam has hosted MOBO gigs across our campuses, highlighting the incredible talents of Black artists and their cultural contributions. Our students are getting into the groove by learning fun tracks like the “Ghostbusters Theme” by Ray Parker Jr. and Michael Jackson's “Thriller”. As they rehearse and perform these classics, they're not just mastering the music they're also appreciating the rich history behind them. It’s a fantastic way to celebrate diversity and have an amazing time while doing it!
Our SMSC lessons have also been focusing on vital topics, including:
Cultural Development: Understanding and appreciating the influences that shape our heritage and culture.
Diversity: Exploring the various cultures within our schools and beyond, recognising and valuing our shared experiences.
Mental Health and Wellbeing: Discussing diversity, selfbelief, identity, and the impact of racism.
We’reintalkswithspecialistgroupstodelivertailoredseminarsthat willenhanceourstudents'understandingofBlackHistoryMonth. Thesesessionsaimtoeducatestudentsaboutthepast,encourage criticalreflection,andinspireabetterfuture.Engagingwiththese topicsisessentialforfosteringempathy,promotingcriticalthinking, andpreparingourstudentstobecompassionatemembersof society.
What’sonnearyou?
Herearesomeexciting eventsinyourareathatsupportBlackHistoryMonthandofferopportunitiesforyouand youryoungpersontofurtheryoureducation.
WORLDMENTALHEALTHDAY
On Thursday, October 10th, staff at Canterbury and Swanley Colleges wore yellow in recognition of World Mental Health Awareness Day, an initiative led by Mental Health UK. Canterbury hosted crafty activities and cooking sessions, while Swanley offered snacks and a calming Tai Chi class. This year’s theme was, "It is time to prioritise mental health in the workplace," which underscores the importance of creating supportive environments for all, especially our dedicated staff.
Mental Health UK has provided various resources, including posters and guides on discussing burnout, which we’ve shared with our staff. By fostering a culture that values mental well-being, we aim to reduce stigma and stress, helping everyone thrive.
This focus on mental health is especially crucial as we work to support our young people effectively. When our staff feel happier and more supported, they are better equipped to guide and inspire the students in their care. Together, let’s continue to champion mental health and create a nurturing environment where staff and students can flourish!
STAFF GIGS!
SupaJam Colleges were excited to showcase our talented staff and what better way to do it than with a Staff Gig! Our wonderful team created a lively and fun atmosphere across SupaJam. These performances aimed to break down any barriers between staff and students, fostering a sense of camaraderie and inspiring creativity through live music. As staff took to the stage, they were not only sharing their talents but also encouraging students to connect and collaborate, setting a positive tone for the year ahead.
SET LIST HIGHLIGHTS
Stand By Me - Ben E King
The Chain - Fleetwood Mac
Roadhouse Blues - The Doors
Little Wing - Jimi Hendrix
Brand New Cadillac - Vince Taylor
Ticket To Ride - The Beatles
Three Little Birds - Bob Marley
It was fantastic to witness our staff collaborating and showcasing their remarkable talents, reinforcing to students that they can count on us for support in their creative endeavours. The sense of community and enthusiasm was palpable, creating an wonderful atmosphere for everyone. One student captured the excitement perfectly, saying, "This is the first gig I've been to, and it's amazing." Such moments remind us of the vibrant connections we can foster through music and collaboration!
SORRELNATIONMUSICSHELF
We’reexcitedtosharethenewsthatKent-born songstressSorrelNationrecentlygraced SupaJamCanterburywithanintimateacoustic performanceaspartofourMusicShelfseries. Knownforhersoulfulblendoffolk,country,and rock,Sorrelcaptivatesaudienceswithher powerfulvocals,hauntingmelodies,andheartfelt songwritinginspiredbyearthy1970sstyles.
Sorrelhasperformedatrenownedvenuesacross LondonandtheUK,includingTheTroubadour, TheBedford,andtheiconic100Club.This summer,shetooktothestageatprestigious festivalssuchasGlastonburyandBlackDeer,as shetoursthefestivalcircuitwithTheMagic Teapotmusicvenue. Duringherrecentvisit,Sorrelperformedsongs fromherupcomingdebutalbum,sharingthe storiesbehindeachtrack.
Westronglyencourage youtohavealistentoher music.Sorrelhasan incredibletalentand SupaJamfavouritesare:
SORRELNATIONMUSICSHELF
Sorrel’sperformancemarkedthefirstMusicShelfeventof theacademicyear,bringingtogetherstudentsfrombothour CanterburyandSwanleycolleges.TheMusicShelfisa dedicatedplatformonYouTubewhereemergingand establishedartistscanshowcasetheirmusicinaunique, intimatesettingbeforealiveaudience.
Thisinitiativenotonlyhighlightstalentedartistsbutalso providesourstudentswithinvaluableprofessional experience.Theyengageinvariousroles,including photography,videography,soundengineering,andartist liaison,allofwhichhelpbuildtheirconfidenceandworkreadyskills.
InadditiontoSorrel'sperformance,ourveryownstudents, LivandJustinsupportedherasopeningactsattheForumin TunbridgeWells,deliveringtheirownoriginalsongstoa captivatedandenchantedaudience.
GUEST SPEAKERS
Brighton welcomed Jon from RadioReverb as its first guest speaker. Founded in 2004 during the Brighton Festival, RadioReverb broadcasts locally on 97.2FM, DAB+, and online, featuring a diverse range of programmes.
Jon shared insights on running an inclusive, sustainable and accountable radio station, highlighting topics such as the arts, healthy living, community issues, and LGBT+ lives. He emphasised the station’s role in promoting diversity through various specialist music shows.
The visit led to our Brighton wellbeing choir being invited to perform live on the radio. Despite facing some technical hiccups, the students showcased their professionalism and talent, delivering a remarkable performance that resonated with listeners. Jon's visit not only inspired the students but also reinforced the vital role local media plays in fostering community connections.
Canterbury students have been treated to an exciting term with two dynamic guest speakers! Jon from the Kent DJ Academy inspired the audience with his passion for teaching the art of DJing, sharing valuable insights from his experience as a dedicated tutor. Additionally, Mike from Rimshot
Recording captivated students with tales from the world of live studio work, offering a glimpse into the creative process and the support available for those booking sessions. It’s been a fantastic opportunity for students to learn from industry experts!
END OF TERM SHOWCASES
SupaJam staff and students are amazed at how quickly the half term has flown by; it feels like the fun has only just begun! The excitement and creativity that have filled the past couple of week have made the time pass in a electrifying blur. To celebrate the end of half term 1, all colleges hosted a showcase, highlighting the incredible talent and hard work that has blossomed this term. It was a fantastic opportunity to celebrate our students’ achievements and reflect on the vibrant energy we've worked to create of the first few weeks together!
THISAUTUMN-JUSTINATION
INVASION
My name is Justination and I play R&B, Soul and Jazz.
This October, I went to perform at The Bedford which is located in Balham in London. It was a fundraising concert for Supajam. Many people from Supajam including Tom Johnston, David Court and student Matt Busby attended this event. We had Peter Taylor from Royal Tunbridge Wells who also came to watch the event as well.
Just an hour before the show started, Clamber, The Act and I had a sound check and made sure that they could hear their instruments through the monitor.
The challenge for me is I realised that the volume knob from the Yamaha CP1 keyboard wasn’t working and it had to be controlled from the sound desk. I was the first artist to perform on stage before The Act.
The venue itself had vintage curtains in the background of the stage and also the top of the stage with a spotlight surrounding the venue and a disco ball in the ceiling so it looked like it was set in the 1930s.
I never felt nervous when I got on stage because I am used to gigs like these. I have performed in the Swanley base for end of term gigs. I’ve also done the same thing in Royal Tunbridge Wells which is The Royal Oak, Black Deer Festival and another one at The Forum during Sorrel Nation’s release day.
My setlist is from my original compositions released on singles and EPs including ‘When I look into your eyes’, ‘Average Life’ ‘Keep it away’ and some from my upcoming album. I finished off the set by playing my recent single ‘Cause it’s You’.
One of my most memorable moments is when I met with Clamber for the first time. I found out that it is their first time performing at The Bedford as well.
My experience of SupaJam so far this year has been going on trips and performing at different venues outside college including Black Deer, The Royal Oak, The Forum and The Bedford. Not only have I released my EPs but I also starred on Supajam radio for my release day.
As part of the plan for future gigs, I will hopefully be getting my band together to perform at different venues and at Supajam college.
We got feedback from Stormy saying “it was absolutely amazing, so proud" and Flora saying “It was absolutely brilliant, thank you for having The Act, they loved it”. WRITTEN BY - Justin, Swanley L3.2
DebutAlbum:‘UnfadingRadiance’- OUT 18th OCT
2024
Music fans worldwide are tuning into the voice of Justination, a groundbreaking artist whose work challenges perceptions and invokes deep reflection.
Justin blends sophisticated musical concepts with modern themes through his music, creating a resonance with listeners both intellectually and emotionally.
The first two singles from this mesmerizing body of work have been received as gifts by many‘Cause It's You’ & ‘Crime & Destruction’
Written, produced and recorded by Justin himself, these compositions offer an exclusive insight into his distinctive new sound, which revitalizes classic clavinet soul/funk, with irresistible fusion to his neo-synth-sound. Spotify Apple Music YT Music
“A harmonic genius, and a voice for change!”
“Heart-melting & radiant”
“UNDENIABLY AWESOME”
DavidCourt(CEO)
@ewy_shoots
Meet Ewan, a talented and budding photographer from Canterbury. Recently, he captured the energy of the staff gig, showcasing his ability to document moments that tell a story. His edited shots highlight the vibrant atmosphere and the performers' talent. With a unique perspective and passion for visual storytelling, Ewan is definitely one to watch in the photography scene!
DUB OF THE TERM
Hi I’m Owen Sweeney I am a student in SupaJam I currently study at the Canterbury base I feel very honoured to give you a new feature as part of this newsletter called dub of the term for this new feature I am going to be sharing and reviewing a couple of new exclusive dubs that I have been feeling this term as I am into my drum and bass music in particular jump up I am also trying to produce some of my own drum and bass productions as well as DJing within the genre of music that I am interested in the most.
My first dub I want to review and share with you is a track entitled Chords to a Melody by a Brighton based DJ and producer Nick The Lot. He has produced many tracks for many labels including Lowdowndeep Recordings, Gradient Records and Prototype Recordings he even has his own label called pick the lock records.
The reason why I have picked this as one of the dubs is because I feel that it’s one that’ll do damage to the dance floors if you’re into drum and bass in particular jump up drum and bass I suggest that you go and check them out I will send you the link to the channel if you’re interested in where to find them
The second dub I want to review is a little bootleg of God’s Plan by a producer and DJ from Leicester who goes by the name of Amplify. He has been producing music for many labels including Lowdowndeep Recordings, Pick the Lock Records and Crucast. He also is the founder and co-owner of gradient records.
The reason why I have picked this dub is because I feel that not only does it go off in the clubs but it’s also a song that people can sing along to as it uses parts of God’s Plan by Drake.
I hope you like listening to these dubs and I hope to hear your thoughts and opinions on them and I hope that I can do another one of these columns for the next one but until then I hope that I will be back at the end of next term but for now goodbye.
ELECTRICCOWBOYCLUB:ANIGHTOFRIGHTEOUS ROCKREVIVAL
magic on everyone in the room. Obviously in touch a spiritual power we can only imagine comprehending.
Preaching the good word of rock n roll to a church of devotees. The gospels of Gene, Lux, Johnnys Cash and Burnet. Howling on behalf of a million moonshine maddened hillbillies and bluesmen who never made more than one record; The other Cowboy’s took what these forgotten figures had laid down and contorted it almost beyond its limits, stretching the sound to weird and wonderful places.
The twelve song set was a highlight in my gig going career, everything that appeals to me in one place. fuzzy garage punked rockabilly, feedback dripping off the walls and a general feeling of chaos and disorder. A sound sent by heaven radiant.
It’s hard to view the world the same after something like this. Like the first time I added chilli oil and black pepper to pizza , like hearing Son House sing death letter blues: My standards have been raised. After the last of the songs had rang out and the newly baptised audience filed out in a stunned silence (we all had some thinking to do), I saw a friend of mine.
“That was something”.
Yes. it was.
An interview with a Level 3 student from Brighton, who creates the thought-provoking podcast ‘There is
No Such Thing as Normal.’
misunderstandings about my disabilities, and I believe knowledge is power. Most people genuinely want to learn, and who better to teach than someone with lived experience?
Q: How do you come up with ideas for your episodes?
A: Generating ideas can be challenging! I keep a document with categories and thoughts based on my feelings or random ideas Choosing what to share is often the hardest part. I use bullet points to stay organized and aim for a natural feel in my recordings without much e
Q: What’s your favorite episode, and which one would you recommend for new listeners?
A: That’s tough, can I say my top three?
Episode 11: "What Exactly Is Neurodiversity and Why Is It Important?"
Episode 8: "What It Feels Like to Be ADHD."
Episode 13: "Why Is Change So Hard for Autistic People and How Can You Help?"
Q: What platform do you use to share your podcast?
A: I use Spotify for Podcasters and Anchor, which provide an RSS feed for distribution to other platforms like Apple Podcasts. It took a lot of time to figure out, and I still can’t remember what RSS stands for!
Q: Do you plan to continue the podcast after Supajam?
A: I’d love to! I even made a jingle in RSL to make it more professional. I could also branch out into topics like breathwork and meditation as I gain more skills.
Q: Where can people find your podcast?
A: You can listen on Spotify and on my Facebook page.
In this episode of The Creative Industries Podcast (recorded live at the UK Creative Festival), Laura from Music Collective helps us understand brand deals, sync, and other chances to get your music heard... and paid for it!
With many years experience in this side of the music industry, and a drive to help others, Laura is the perfect guest on this subject - Thank you Laura!
In this episode, we interview student Alex A (and his tutor Guillermo), and find out how his first time in the job of Musical Director at a SupaJam show went!
Not only that, he helped with Artist Liaison, and also performed at the event.
If you are interested in finding out what behind the scenes at our events is like, this is for you!
In this episode of The Creative Industries Podcast, we talk to Darren Parker - a social media expert and events guru who recently had a big part in the online campaign that got The Libertine's their recent Number One Album!
In this episode you can learn about:
Social media advice for new bands
How he got his start in the music industry
CAREERS
This term, our Level 3 final year students have been participating in careers guidance sessions and developing action plans to help them prepare for their next steps after SupaJam. They will receive both one-on-one and group support throughout the year to work on their career goals.
Some of our Level 3 students are considering university after completing their study program with SupaJam. If your young person is thinking about applying to university, you may find the links below useful to support their application and transition process.
https://sunshine-support.org/send-support-at-university-whats-available/
https://www.rbkc.gov.uk/kb5/rbkc/fis/advice.page?id=NhBrYZ pA8k&localofferchannel=0
https://www.ucas.com/undergraduate/applying-university/individual-needs/disabled-students
https://www.studentminds.org.uk/uploads/3/7/8/4/3784584/180813 transitions interactive.pdf
Calling all artists. Artist registration for The Great Escape 2025 in partnership with Tunecore is now open. Whether you are a band, a singer-songwriter, a rapper, DJ, collective or duo, it doesn’t matter, we want to hear from you.
APPLICATION CLOSES AT FEB 2025
CLICK HERE TO APPLY TO PLAY THE GREAT ESCAPE 2025
KeyDates AcrossSupaJam
4THNOVEMBER2024-TERMSTARTS
6THNOVEMBER2024-BRIGHTONMUSICSHELF
19THNOVEMBER2024-INTERNATIONALMEN’SDAY
25THNOVEMBER2024-INTERNATIONALDAYFORTHEELIMINATION OFVIOLENCEAGAINSTWOMENDAY
25THNOVEMBERTO6THNOVEMBER-SPEAKINGANDLISTENING EXAMSSTART
5THDECEMBER2024-WILDLIFECONSERVATIONDAY
8THDECEMBER2024-BRIGHTONENDOFTERMSHOWCASE!
19THDECEMBER2024-LASTDAYOFTERM
4-TERMSTARTS
24-INTERNATIONALMEN’SDAY 24-INTERNATIONALDAYFORTHEELIMINATIONOF WOMENDAY
O6THNOVEMBER-SPEAKINGANDLISTENINGEXAMS
4-WILDLIFECONSERVATIONDAY 24-CANTERBURYENDOFTERMSHOWCASE! 24-LASTDAYOFTERM
4THNOVEMBER2024-TERMSTARTS
19THNOVEMBER2024-INTERNATIONALMEN’SDAY
25THNOVEMBER2024-INTERNATIONALDAYFORTHEELIMINATIONOF VIOLENCEAGAINSTWOMENDAY
25THNOVEMBERTO6THNOVEMBER-SPEAKINGANDLISTENINGEXAMS START
5THDECEMBER2024-WILDLIFECONSERVATIONDAY
17THDECEMBER2024-SWANLEYENDOFTERMSHOWCASE! 19THDECEMBER2024-LASTDAYOFTERM
If you have any suggestions for our next edition please email
lillie.watson@supajameducation.org
