PRU & Alternative Provision

The Octagon Music Hub supports children and young people in PRUs and alternative provision settings across Dorset & Somerset through targeted, flexible and creative music programmes.

We fund music activity that helps young people re-engage with learning, build confidence and develop positive relationships through group music-making. This includes project-based work, ensembles and creative workshops that are shaped around the needs, interests and experiences of learners in these settings.

Our programmes focus on providing safe, supportive musical spaces where young people can express themselves, develop skills and experience success. Music is used as a tool to support wellbeing, communication and motivation, as well as musical development.

We work with specialist delivery partners and settings to design provision that is trauma-informed, inclusive and responsive, ensuring that young people who have been excluded or face barriers to mainstream education can still access high-quality music opportunities.

Where possible, we also support progression routes into further music activity, helping young people move from alternative provision into community or Hub-supported music opportunities when they are ready.