Photo credit: John Ferguson
South Street Kids are embarking on an exciting journey to write, record, and perform their own original songs, culminating in the creation of an EP that will be released on Spotify, along with accompanying music videos.
Working alongside professional musicians through artist-led masterclasses, the young people will collaborate with an Outloud Music producer to record their tracks at Punch Studios and create their music videos with a professional videographer.
Supported by Britten Pears Arts, Eastern Angles, and Outloud Music, this ambitious project will leave a lasting legacy for SSK, as the participants gain new skills and create something bold, memorable, and uniquely their own that they can be proud of for years to come.
This one-year project aims to engage young people, aged 7-12, through a dynamic blend of music, media, and creative arts. Based in Westgate—Suffolk’s most diverse ward and one of the UK’s top 10% most deprived areas—this initiative offers young people the chance to explore their potential and express their creativity in ways they may not have experienced before.
Breaking Barriers Through Music and Media
The songs, written and performed by the young people, will be a powerful celebration of culture, difference, and diversity—bold anthems of what it means to be young, alive, and unapologetically authentic.
Alongside the EP, the children will work with a filmmaker to create music videos released on YouTube, bringing their creative ideas to life on screen. These exciting projects will culminate in performances at prestigious venues Snape Maltings and Eastern Angles, giving the young participants the chance to showcase their talents to a wider audience.
Through these experiences, SSK will not only gain artistic skills but also build confidence, learn to work as a team, and develop communication skills—all while having a load of fun and expressing themselves creatively. The project provides them with a rare opportunity to explore music and media in a professional setting, opening doors to future possibilities.
Photo credit: John Ferguson
More Than Creativity: Wellbeing and Personal Growth
SSK places a strong emphasis on the wellbeing of its participants, offering pastoral support alongside creative activities. With mental health challenges affecting 1 in 6 children aged 5-16, the project’s integration of wellbeing is vital. Through creative expression, children can process their emotions, reduce stress, and improve their overall mood, creating a positive and supportive environment.
Co-Creation at the Heart
What sets SSK apart is its co-created approach. The young participants are central to the design and delivery of the project. Through ICM’s Youth Board, the “Youth Squad,” the voices and values of the young people shape every aspect of the programme.
Photo credit: John Ferguson
Get involved
If you know any young people who would benefit from this incredible opportunity, particularly those living in or around Norwich Road, we are especially keen to reach out to young people who might otherwise miss out on an experience like this.
We’re especially looking to support looked after young people, young carers, those from minority ethnic communities, and/or those struggling at school and in need of a safe, creative space to be themselves.
Our dedicated youth workers, trained and supported through our partner Community Praxis, are here to help.
The project kicks off on 12th October 2024 and runs termly for one year. Best of all, South Street Kids is completely free.
When: Saturdays 11am - 12.30pm
Where: Eastern Angles Centre, Gatacre Road, Ipswich, IP1 2LQ
For more information, or to get involved, please contact Kristin at hello@ipswichcm.org.uk.
If you are a local business and would like to sponsor one of the music videos, we'd love to hear from you. Contact laura@ipswichcm.org.uk for a chat.
Huge thanks to our partners and funders: Britten Pears, Eastern Angles, Outloud Music and Community Praxis. Arts Council, England and People's Health Trust.
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