Page 13 - 2024 The Song Room Year in Review

Arts Learning | Strengthening cultural safety, pride and understanding
The Song Room deepened our commitment to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander self-determination in 2024, partnering with 10 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Artists and community liaison officers across 40 programs, from remote Northern Territory to Bankstown in Western Sydney. This year we piloted Deadly Arts programs in Victoria and in early years settings in Western Australia.
At the heart of our work is a consultative, place-based approach, ensuring cultural arts programs are led by local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists and educators.
We were especially proud to see Bulman School, who we have worked with in remote Northern Territory since 2018, receive multiple awards in 2024 for the cultural and educational impact being made through their music program including at the National Indigenous Music Awards (NIMA) and in the Caring for Country Music Competition. We thank Mimal Land Management for their guidance and support
in Northern Territory.
We also acknowledge the passing of Uncle Wes Marne (Bigamul) in 2024, whose vision and leadership shaped The Song Room’s first Deadly Arts program in Bankstown, NSW, 2014. His legacy continues to inspire and guide our work.
Arts Learning | Building Student Wellbeing Through the Arts
Through place-based, sequential arts programs, we nurture inclusive, connected, and positive school communities while explicitly teaching social and emotional skills that enhance student wellbeing and learning. Led by arts educators and music and art therapists, these programs make a tangible difference in students’ lives.
In 2024, we delivered 54 wellbeing-focused programs in 38 schools, reaching over 2,500 students in diverse learning environments, including special development schools. The programs empowered students with essential life skills including self-awareness, self-management, motivation, social awareness, and relationship-building to support students to come to school ready to learn.
As the only arts education organisation re-appointed to the Victorian Government’s Schools Mental Health Menu, The Song Room continues to be recognised for its evidence-based approach to improving student wellbeing. Since the menu’s launch in 2022, we have proudly partnered with over 50 Victorian schools, supporting them towards improved
mental health and wellbeing for their students.
A special development school in regional Victoria positively impacted the school culture through
a dynamic and inclusive dance program as
part of their Victorian Schools Mental Health program. Students discovered new ways
to express themselves, improve their physical coordination, and deepen their sense of belonging at school. The vibrant performances brought students, teachers and families together to develop a strengthened sense of school pride and community connection.
The Song Room | 2024 Year in Review
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