Refugee Education Programme

A LOCAL PATHWAY TO A FUTURE IN MUSIC FOR TALENTED CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE WHO ARE REFUGEES AND VICTIMS OF TORURE AND TRAUMA AND ARE REBUILDING THEIR LIVES IN WESTERN SYDNEY.

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Through the generous support of the James N. Kirby Foundation, WestPhil has partnered with the NSW Service for the Treatment and Rehabilitation of Torture and Trauma Survivors (STARTTS) and the Music Teachers' Association of NSW (MTANSW) to pilot a 6-month programme in 2024 aimed at a community approach to music training – predominantly orchestral instruments – for primary school children in the STARTTs and possibly other refugee communities in Western Sydney.

As part of the programme, STARTTs would train participating teachers and the MTA in an effective pedagogical approach for the participating students and their communities. Participating students would receive either free or heavily discounted tuition and instruments, and participating teachers assured payment and support, while being part of a vibrant community focused and engaged programme.

The programme will be documented over the 6 months by a prominent film maker.