Making Space to Create: Amped at the Creatively Healthy Schools Conference

10 April 2026 | News & Updates

Amped was delighted to be part of the Creatively Healthy Schools Conference on 10 April 2026, where founder Darren Holleywell was invited to deliver a guest talk exploring the relationship between music, creativity and wellbeing.

The session, titled “Making Space to Create: Experiencing Creative Health through Music”, explored the importance of giving young people opportunities to express themselves creatively, build confidence and connect with others through music.

Drawing on his experience as a former music teacher at Berwick Academy, Darren shared practical exercises and approaches used in the classroom to encourage creativity, participation and collaboration. Attendees, including school staff and members of the wider creative community, were invited to explore how simple, accessible musical activities can support wellbeing without requiring specialist musical knowledge or experience.

The session reinforced a message at the heart of Amped's work: music isn't just about learning an instrument or becoming a performer. It's about creating spaces where people feel confident to participate, experiment and express themselves.

It was a valuable opportunity to contribute to the wider conversation around creative health and highlight the role music can play in education and community wellbeing.

At Amped, we're committed to making these opportunities more accessible to young people and communities across Berwick-upon-Tweed and the surrounding area.

Watch the conference video: View on YouTube