Testimonies

*****  “During her placement with the SCO, Nikki assisted on a number of our education and outreach projects. Nikki was a pleasure to work with and actively engaged with all aspects of the work, from the managing side of things to the musical content and delivery. As a result, we are delighted to have invited Nikki back to assist with both our Open Rehearsal and Explore Day projects this March. ” - Julie Aitken, Connect Officer, Scottish Chamber Orchestra

 

 

***** 'Nikki first met pupils and staff at Balnacraig School, December 2014, when she volunteered to run a live Christmas Music workshop and performance for pupils and staff. This was a challenging event and Nikki demonstrated from the outset that she not only had the skills and confidence to communicate and perform to a diverse audience she had a natural empathy and unique talents working with the pupils at Balnacraig School.Since then Nikki has been developing Singing and Music programmes in the school on a weekly volunteer basis. Throughout this period she has been totally well organised and prepared – to the point whereby Nikki will email the lesson plan in advance of the session.

 

Nikki’s work with all the pupils that have chosen to attend sessions is playing a significant and important role in delivering and developing the School’s Expressive Arts Programme within the Curriculum for Excellence Framework, as well as improving individual’s music skills and self-confidence.

 

Nikki has worked collaboratively with other teachers and staff – they have found Nikki to be a calm and polite individual who is perceptive, practical and efficient. 

 

Nikki understands the school’s nurturing ethos and has adapted her lesson plans to include a therapeutic approach in teaching and learning to better manage the social and emotional behaviour of pupils. Nikki can turn her creative ideas into actions and organise her class sessions to meet the individual needs of the pupil. She has the drive and courage to overcome obstacles and can work inclusively within a music and media environment.

 

Nikki has worked in partnership with the media teacher and other school staff to meet pupils’ Additional Support Needs.   

 

We were delighted to be invited to watch Nikki performing on 26th March at the Goodlyburn theatre – it gave pupils the opportunity to further respect and resonate with Nikki as a true performer. 

 

Throughout her work at Balnacraig School, Nikki has been consistently reliable and trustworthy and I have no hesitation in recommending Nikki for any position working with people and community groups at all levels of abilities.' - Jo West, Head of Education at Balnacraig School.