Students say:

On projects with schools:

“This was a life changing experience, as I have met multiple great musicians that have taught me lots not just about music and its complications, but about life in general.”

“I never thought I would do sound editing and now I want to do Media Studies for GCSE.”

“The last two weeks have taught me resilience. I can do things I thought I couldn’t.”

“I went from a 3 to a 5 or 6 in English like magic.”

“I regularly think about how easy I found analysing the questions in Digression Sessions and how English is essentially the same, just a different setting.”

On Alternative Provision:

“I’ve learnt to be patient, to be prepared, and more about teamwork.”

“I’m proud of working with a real band to make amazing music”

“I’m proud of getting out of my comfort zone”

“My education with Hand Of is one of the thing that matters most to me. After being out of school for so long I never thought anything would work.”

“Now I’m at University – something that nobody but Hand Of thought I could do – I’ve realised just how much I learned from my time across the years with my Hand Of mentor.”

Teachers say:

Parents and carers say:

“There is no doubt that we would do this again – it was socially and culturally enriching for both students and teachers.”

“The fact that students, teachers, and facilitators were described as colleagues gave students more confidence in their own ideas and ability.”

“The planning was meticulous, each day was different and exciting, the team ensured every child was included at all times.”

“Hand Of’s work is having a massive impact on our disadvantaged pupils – some of whom have worked with them across different projects in different years now. We’re seeing engagement in all areas of their school life improving hugely, their attendance is better, they’re achieving higher results in GCSE examinations. Hand Of is a key part of our school community.”

“Our children took part in something that they will remember for the rest of their lives.”

“I can’t thank you all enough for the help and support.”

“The music sessions have been consistent and a massive help to him and our family.”

“Thank you so much for supporting him in his music for the last few months.”

“It’s great that you’ve continued to be a support for X. He values his mentors’ opinions and takes them on board. We’ve not found another service that continues to support him over such a long time period.”

“It was fantastic for me to see him engage and enjoy something, taking into account the turmoil he is facing at the moment.”

“X speaks very positively of his engagement with the music sessions you provide. I feel his involvement with you has greatly benefitted him as well as providing routine and structure to his day.”
– Senior Social Work Practitoner

Partners say:

Artists say:

“I’m so glad that this student has found something which inspires him and gives him a sense of purpose. You guys have been so consistent and supportive throughout his journey”

– Charlotte Martin, Senior Education Achievement Co-ordinator, Newcastle Virtual School

“Collaborating with Hand Of enables me to participate in sophisticated and diverse work with children. It fosters innovative methods of transferring knowledge and inspiration from the University to the community.”

– Chris Hales, former Marie Skłodowska-Curie Fellow in Astrophysics, Newcastle University

“Every single idea is heard and nothing is ever thrown away.”
– Hannah James-Louwerse, Oral Histories Researcher, National Trust

“Working with Hand Of continues to be an opportunity for Parliament to reach a new audiences.”
– David Prior, Head of Public Services and Outreach, Parliamentary Archives

“Hand Of’s approach to education, heritage and culture is everything we hope to achieve. It is immersive, engaging and comprehensive”
– Ross Forbes, Programme Director, Durham Miners Association

“Hand Of feels very unique in the way it encourages creativity. The participants are encouraged to take ownership of their project and to follow their own creative ideas rather than following a set format. Its always a privilege to be involved!”
– Danielle Price, Musician and Composer

“I feel like Hand Of’s approach to teaching and learning is the most effective I’ve ever been part of. It feels like a meaningful and intensive residency for both artists and children.”
– Martin Thomson, Musician and Composer

“I love working with Hand Of. I value their ethos and approach. They care about every person involved and every detail. The professional intent and quality of the work has a direct impact on how participants engage.”
– Rachel Warr, Theatre Director

“Hand Of is awesome! They provided excellent documentation from previous projects during the creation process and gave excellent feedback about what needed editing in my plans. The ideas I had were answered with, ‘Yes, great and what if we also did…’ They were organized, dedicated, and prepared.”
– Abigail Lawson, Actor and Director

“It was one of the most valuable artistic opportunities afforded to me in my 15 year career as a musician and composer. Working with children and young people affords me completely new perspectives on creation and performance.”
– Ben Duvall, Musician and Composer, Ex-Easter Island Head