In November 2024, the Harold King Community Centre in Western Australia was alive with energy, innovation and music as three local primary schools—Grovelands, Orelia, and Westfield Park—came together for The Song Room’s Big Day of Learning. The event, focused on arts learning and sustainability, showcased the magic that happens when creativity meets environmental awareness.

Led by the inspiring team of Teaching Artists, students participated in a hands-on workshop where discarded offcuts from businesses and industries were transformed into unique musical instruments. These materials, often destined for landfill, found new purpose as drums, shakers, and stringed instruments. It was a powerful lesson in creativity and sustainability, teaching students to think outside the box while minimizing waste.

The workshop was not just about making instruments—it was about inspiring confidence and collaboration. Watching one student rise to conduct their entire class during the final group performance was a truly heart-warming moment.

A Full Day of Arts and Learning

The day began with a warm welcome and Acknowledgement of Country before the students dove into their instrument-making activities. The excitement was palpable as they explored the potential of “junk” materials, experimenting with sound and structure. After crafting their instruments, the students came together to create songs, beats, and rhythms, culminating in a vibrant group performance that brought the entire venue to life.

Community and Connection

With over 80 students, teachers, and staff bustling around the Harold King Community Centre, the day was a whirlwind of learning and laughter. The enthusiasm and collaboration shown by the schools working together highlighted the importance of community in fostering creativity and sustainability.

This incredible day would not have been possible without the generous support of the Australian Federal Office for the Arts. Their commitment to arts education is deeply appreciated and instrumental in making events like this a success.

Thank you also to the incredibly talented facilitators from REmida.

Reflecting on the Day

This Big Day of Learning was more than an arts and music workshop—it was an opportunity to inspire a new generation to embrace their creative potential, to develop collaboration skills, and to see the value re-imaging the concept of waste. Events like these bring the arts into the classroom while empowering students with the skills and confidence to express themselves and make a difference in their communities.

Here’s to many more days like this, where creativity and sustainability come together to shape a brighter future.

Read about the Big Day of Learning in Bankstown, NSW, Limestone Coast, SA, and Geelong, VIC.