In Tune at Kangaroo Inn

A Day of Connection and Creativity

With approximately 370 students and 35 staff and parents in attendance, In Tune at Kangaroo Inn was more than just a celebration of music; it was a testament to the power of arts education to build confidence, foster collaboration, and connect communities. Through their performances and interactions, students showcased not only their musical growth but also their ability to work together as a large ensemble, transcending school boundaries.

In Tune at Kangaroo Inn provided a unique opportunity for students of all ages—from three-year-olds to teenagers—to engage with music in a collaborative setting. The event encouraged older students to take on mentorship roles, creating a supportive environment for younger participants.

Throughout the day, students explored music through listening games, rhythm exercises, pitch work, and percussion activities. They sang, tapped, and played their way to deeper creativity and connection, showcasing the transformative power of music.

Teachers who attended reported that the day was a great success. They saw amazing engagement from all the students and were thrilled to see the older kids embrace a ‘big brother or sister’ role.

Guests included representatives from the SA Education Department, The Song Room staff, and local school principals.

Growing Popularity Across the Region

The Song Room program has become a cornerstone of the district’s music education, now reaching 13 schools, kindergartens, and childcare centres across the Limestone Coast. All but two of these schools were able to attend this year’s event, highlighting the program’s impact across the region.

Scott Maxwell, the lead Teaching Artist for The Song Room, is the driving force behind the program. Travelling weekly across the district, Scott works with students and teachers to foster confidence, improve skills, and build connection through music.

“I work with generalist teachers and early years educators to help improve their music teaching skills and increase the delivery of high-quality music into their classrooms. The programs have a strong skills focus but also bring the significant benefits of music education in terms of self-esteem, social awareness, and connectivity.” Scott Maxwell, Teaching Artist

Empowering Teachers, Enriching Classrooms

A key aspect of The Song Room’s music program is its focus on teacher development. Kangaroo Inn Area School Reception and Year One teacher, Kayley Irvine, reflected on how the program has equipped educators with new tools and confidence.

“Working with Scott during the term has given teachers the confidence to apply concepts and skills to their own pedagogy, including in areas like literacy and numeracy, This event was a shared celebration of student achievement across school levels. It consolidated music learning through fun and interactive sessions.” Kayley Irvine, Year One Teacher

As the program continues to thrive, it serves as a reminder of the profound impact that music and movement can have on young minds. With dedicated educators like Scott Maxwell and enthusiastic support from the community, The Song Room program is creating a legacy of creativity and connection across the Limestone Coast.

This year’s program brought together a diverse group of participants, including:

• Kangaroo Inn Area School
• Glencoe Central Primary School
• Mulga Street Primary School
• Mt Gambier Children’s Centre
• Penola High School
• Penola Primary School
• Kalangadoo Kindergarten
• Millicent North Primary School
• Millicent North Kindergarten
• Glencoe & District Kindergarten
• McKay Children’s Centre
• Kingston Early Learning Centre
• Robe Memorial Soldiers Kindergarten

The Song Room’s programs in South Australia are funded by the Australian Government’s Department of Education with co-invest from  South Australian Government’s Music Innovation Fund.

Read about the Big Days of Learning in WA, Bankstown, NSW, and Geelong, VIC.