GOLD DUST ACADEMY
The Gold Dust Academy aims to offer interactive DJ and broadcast workshops designed to inspire and empower young people. Our sessions provide hands-on training using various formats in music selection, mixing, basic radio broadcasting, nurturing creativity and confidence in a supportive environment for mainly 10– 19-year-olds from all backgrounds. In the UK, involvement in music and creative arts has shown significant benefits for children and young people, including those classified as NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training). Funding is being sought to deliver these sessions with more regularity in a permanent facility.
Our Ethos:
We believe in breaking barriers and creating opportunities. By fostering inclusivity, innovation and collaboration, the Gold Dust Academy aims to equip the next generation with the skills and confidence to thrive in the music industry while celebrating the transformative power of music.
Our workshops can be held on your premises or suitable facilities that can be hired and tailored to suit your needs. Participants will receive mentorship from industry professionals and have opportunities to showcase their skills on any relevant platforms, such as Gold Dust Radio or at community events. Private tuition can also be arranged.
Contact us if you are a community group, school or academy looking to utilise this service. For individuals, please check out our events page by clicking the button below to sign up for the free academy sessions!
Testimonials
““Our son has always been interested in music, but the Gold Dust Academy has opened his eyes and ears to new ways of appreciating it.
He likes sharing that appreciation with others and creating his own mixes and productions.
He has often struggled at school and with friendships, but is gaining new confidence skills and friends through music, and the sessions are now the highlight of his week.””
“Just wanted to let you know that Rohan came to thank me for sharing the Gold Dust Academy Sessions at The Angel Bar.
He attended a session recently and couldn’t praise it enough. He said the equipment was amazing, very high level and he also said that he managed to DJ to his A Level music work.
He’s already booked for the next one!”
“SB has thoroughly enjoyed attending your sessions. She always looks forward to going and is always giving positive feedback after each session.
SB is very passionate about music and the classes have helped her to further express herself and what she is feeling. As she is approaching her teenage years, it is even more important that she has access to gain the tools to enable her to express herself in a safe and impactful manner.
Outside of school, this has been the only thing she has shown keen interest in since starting secondary school. She now counts down the days until the next session.
SB is generally a quiet child but since attending the classes she has grown in confidence and is more vocal and forthcoming with giving her opinions and having her voice heard.
SB is looking forward to learning and developing skills in podcasting and radio hosting following the sessions she has experienced.
It would be great if the group could grow into a weekly session as I believe SB would really benefit from the regularity.
I always find the staff to be helpful, welcoming and child centred in the approach to learning personal development through music. ”
“
Just wanted to say a big thank you for today’s workshop. It was such a welcoming and professional space. My daughter felt safe, comfortable, and really enjoyed herself.
She picked up a few new skills and had the chance to connect with other young people from different backgrounds – all sharing a love for music and broadcasting.
I actually came across your workshop while looking for age-appropriate activities for her over the Easter break. As you probably know, most holiday clubs are aimed at much younger kids, and there’s not much creative stuff around for older ones – especially in Reading – and what is available can be pretty pricey.
Really hope you’re able to keep running these much-needed workshops for local young people. We’re already signed up for the next one!”
“They encourage us to meet new people, and enjoy DJing!”
“Just wanted to let you know that Olivia was buzzing when I picked her up and she talked non-stop all the way home about how much she enjoyed that session today. Thank you so much for making it so fun and making her feel so comfortable. Safe to say she wants to come back for more. I’m happy to bring her to every session going forward! ”
*Registrations only to be completed by adults - places are limited to 8 participants per session.
