introduction to School Music Space

An old bus, previously part of the Johnson's Coaches fleet in Henley-in-Arden, has found new life as an outdoor School Music Spacel for pupils at Evergreen School in Warwick. The bus, generously donated by Johnson's Coaches, has been creatively repurposed for the students' use, offering a vibrant and functional space dedicated to music education.

The transformation process began with stripping the bus's interior of its seats and fittings. The exterior received a fresh coat of paint, adorned with vibrant flowers and butterflies to create an inviting atmosphere. Inside, the bus was refurbished to accommodate various musical instruments and equipment, ensuring a conducive environment for learning and creativity. Outside, a wooden deck was constructed to provide an open stage where students can perform and practice.

Headteacher Nick Evans expressed his gratitude and excitement over the project. "It's been a real team effort; we haven't spent a penny from our budget, so we've been relying on contributions and donations," he said. "To see it suddenly all come together is a brilliant moment for everyone involved."

Evergreen School caters to children and young people with special educational needs (SEND), and the new music room aligns perfectly with the inclusive and School Music Space supportive ethos. The project, which took approximately two years to complete, culminated in an official opening ceremony on Wednesday. During the event, a student band had the honor of being the first to perform on the new decking, marking a memorable beginning for the new facility.

"Vibrant Music Room for School a huge part of the curriculum, and it's often not prioritized as much as it should be. We're really pleased to have a music provision that's accessible all day, every day," Mr. Evans remarked. "We use School Music Space in every single aspect of our school day, especially in SEND. It helps with transitions, regulation, and overall engagement."

Peter Johnson from Johnson's Coaches shared his satisfaction with the project's outcome. "I'm so pleased to see it like it is. It’s such a lovely way to use a bus," he commented. Reflecting on the broader significance, he added, "Just imagine, there's been thousands of these things built, all of them have gone to the scrap heap. We'll have one that'll be just building on Nick's team's sense of community."

The innovative use of the old bus underscores the power of community collaboration and creative thinking in enhancing educational experiences. The new outdoor School Music Space for School is set to become a cherished space at Evergreen School, fostering musical talent and providing a joyful outlet for students for years to come.