Creative Futures report

“The creative industries are central to this.”

 

Lewisham Council’s Programme Lead for Jobs & Skills said: “Lewisham Music has a special place in Lewisham, a community pillar in the south of our borough. I know first-hand what an impact Lewisham Music has had on young people we are currently working with. The Council’s 2022-26 Corporate Plan prioritises ensuring more young Lewisham residents seize the wider opportunities in London’s growth sectors – the creative industries are central to this”.

Registration/referrals to the programme were open, however we prioritised applicants that are living in Lewisham; economically inactive; unemployed; identify as having a disability; have caring responsibilities; care experienced; and/or those from underrepresented groups within the creative industries (i.e. people from ethnic minority backgrounds and women).

Melody to Market 

Music Production for Film & TV  

Melody to Market was a co-created 5-week course with industry partner organisation Plus Trbe Productions. The course has been designed to equip participants with the essential skills and knowledge to work within music production for library music and the sync industry. Through a combination of theory, practical activities, and guest talks with industry professionals, participants built a portfolio of work and established valuable industry connections whist gaining the confidence needed to pursue paid experience in the field. 

Sync Lab is a 6-session course tailored for individuals aged 18-30, providing the essential skills and knowledge needed to excel in creating music for the sync and library music industries. This course marks our second collaboration with Plus Trbe Productions, following the success of Melody to Market. Based on participant feedback, we developed SyncLab as a shorter, more focused crash course, designed to streamline learning while maintaining the high-quality content and industry insight of the original program.

Designed to foster an inclusive and supportive learning environment, the course celebrates diversity and encourages both collaboration and creativity. Through a blend of theoretical lessons, hands-on exercises, and sessions with guest facilitators, participants will finish the course with a professional portfolio, key industry connections, and the confidence to pursue their career ambitions in music production.

The Sound to Glastonbury training consisted of three in-depth sessions held at The Albany, following a work experience day at The Cause in collaboration with DI Audio. The course was attended by 12 young people from the Lewisham area. The course provided participants with essential knowledge of the sound tech industry, covering both technical skills and the cultural landscape of live events. The training was complemented by work experience at Glastonbury, where 4 participants had hands-on exposure to event setup and sound engineering.

The project was delivered in collaboration with key partners, including Show Pony Productions, DI Audio, Glastonbury on Sea, Lewisham Music, and The Albany. These partners provided valuable industry insights and practical experience to support the participants’ development. Key topics included industry insights, technical team dynamics, embracing diversity, health and safety, DJ and sound desk setups, and practical exercises in lifting, stacking, and connecting audio equipment.

Behind the scenes of working in live sound 

Josette has collaborated with artists like Lex Amor, Ego Ella May, Swindle, Brother Portrait, Emmavie, and many others in the UK music scene. She shared her journey and experiences in the industry during the panel event.

Josette has collaborated with artists like Lex Amor, Ego Ella May, Swindle, Brother Portrait, Emmavie, and many others in the UK music scene. She shared her journey and experiences in the industry during the panel event.

Unlock the world of Music for Gaming

A collaboration event with PRS Foundation and PCAM for an event that explored the creative and lucrative opportunities in the dynamic games industry. The event included panel discussions, guest speakers and networking opportunities. 

102

young people aged 18-30 supported through Creative Futures Lewisham

139

hours of Creative Futures Lewisham activity

386

attendances across all Creative Futures Lewisham activity

2

creative industry panel events delivered

70

young people aged 18-30 engaged in creative industry panel events

22

creative industry workshops delivered

32

young people aged 18-30 engaged in creative industry training courses

110

advice, guidance and mentoring sessions delivered 

35

young people engaged in mentoring 

30

young people aged 18-30 achieving a skills certificate (RSA Badge Nation Awards)

17

young people aged 18-30 supported into paid employment opportunities 

10

young people aged 18-30 supported into creative industry work 

50

young people aged 18-30 supported onto further training and networking opportunities

94%

of participants report increased confidence in their occupation specific skills

100%

of participants report increased confidence in their occupation specific knowledge

88%

of participants report enhanced confidence to apply for a job 

Creative Futures Lewisham has demonstrated significant progress in addressing barriers faced by young people aspiring to enter the creative industries. The programme’s tailored approach, combining technical training, mentoring, and access to industry networks has resulted in tangible outcomes, including job placements and enhanced confidence among participants. The success of individual journeys underlines the programme’s ability to cultivate talent and inclusivity, paving the way for sustained impact in the sector. Going forward, continuing to expand industry partnerships and refining support mechanisms will be key to amplifying Creative Future’s impact and reach.