Boost for Springwood's musical reputation
Budding music producers at one of the West Norfolk Academites Trust four secondary schools received a creative boost when Springwood High School became a Steinberg Certified Training Centre, linking it with one of the world’s largest manufacturers of audio software and hardware.
The school’s Director of Music, Robin Norman, said: “Springwood has a reputation that is second to none in terms of its ongoing music provision, with a vast range of bands, orchestras, choirs and ensembles that perform both in school and out in the wider community.
“This certification and accreditation shows that this is not the only area of music education in which we provide outstanding provision, with equal provision in music technology.
“In practical terms, the status of SCTC is a testament to the outstanding music provision that is available to students at Springwood High School (and throughout the WNAT).”
Mr Norman continued: “Steinberg produces some of the most important music software packages and, so, to be associated with them as a certified centre (and, hence, one of the highest quality) is a huge honour, and will give many benefits to not only the students but the staff as well.
“For the students, they will now be able to access free copies of some of Steinberg’s software packages, meaning they do not only have to work in school, but can now also be creative at home and work with industry standard all the time.
“For staff, we now have access to top level CPD for all Steinberg software, and swift technical support.
“This means that we can continue to offer a music technology provision of the highest quality, as well as support our students to be the music producers of the future.”
Steinberg lists only 34 certified centres in the UK on its website, of which just 10 are educational institutions, and four – including Springwood – are schools.
“Springwood is the only institution listed in Norfolk, or, indeed, the whole of the eastern counties of Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex and Cambridgeshire,” added Mr Norman.
“To be able to apply for SCTC, Springwood had to show a combination of outstanding provision not only in terms of equipment and facilities available, but also the quality of the teaching and music technology curriculum, so that all students experience and progress well in Music Technology – an important part of the modern, digital world.
“I am very excited about this new partnership that links us with one of the largest music technology corporations, and opens up a new insight into music and possible music careers.
“As the only centre in Norfolk, we look forward to working with Steinberg and other education organisations to give the young people of the county the best start in music we can.”
Steinberg’s UK Education Manager, Richard Llewellyn, commented: “I am delighted that Springwood High School have become a Steinberg Certified Training Centre.
“It is so important that music technology is embraced within schools, as it increases the accessible creative possibilities for students.”