Hi, I’m Richard Littler — a freelance creative music educator, DJ and project lead based in South London.

I deliver commissioned music mentoring and re-engagement provision for schools, colleges and services, using DJing, music production and creative technology as tools for confidence, regulation and learning.

My work is particularly relevant for:

• Students who are disengaged or at risk of exclusion
• Neurodivergent young people and those with SEND
• Learners who struggle with traditional classroom approaches

Over the last 15+ years, I’ve delivered provision across state schools, specialist settings, community projects and international programmes — alongside running Grooveschool CIO.

If you’ve received an email about music mentoring or re-engagement provision, this page explains how the work is delivered and how it is typically commissioned.

How this work is usually funded

Provision is typically commissioned through:

• School budgets (SEND, inclusion, pastoral, AP or enrichment)
• Colleges or alternative provision settings
• Families (where appropriate and agreed)
• External or matched funding (limited availability)

I’m always happy to discuss realistic options. However, delivery is not automatically funded.

1. DJ Mentoring & Re-Engagement

Targeted 1:1 and small-group DJ mentoring designed to support re-engagement, confidence and wellbeing.

• In-school, college or studio-based
• Suitable for KS3 / KS4 / Post-16 / SEND
• Supports attendance, behaviour and emotional regulation

Ideal for:
Students on reduced timetables, at risk of exclusion, or needing a relational, creative approach.

2. Music Production & Technology Pathways

Hands-on music production using Ableton, Logic, Maschine and DJ software.

• Whole-class, small-group or 1:1 delivery
• Supports GCSE / BTEC coursework
• Enrichment, AP or after-school formats

Ideal for:
Schools modernising their music offer or engaging learners who don’t connect with traditional instruments.

3. School Workshops & Projects

Bespoke projects for schools, hubs and youth organisations, including:

• DJ & music-tech taster days
• Term-long programmes with outcomes
• Learning Outside the Classroom (LOTC) studio visits

Ideal for:
Headteachers, SENCOs, music leads and AP providers seeking visible, measurable impact.

4. Consultancy & Project Management

Strategic support for organisations developing creative provision.

Includes work with:

• Grooveschool CIO
• Music4Children
• Last Night a DJ Saved My Life Foundation (Tanzania & Sierra Leone)
• Deaf Rave (world’s first DJ sessions for deaf adults)

What’s different about my approach

• Mentoring first, music second — technology is a tool for relationship, confidence and expression
• Trauma-aware & neurodivergent-friendly — extensive SEND and specialist provision experience
• Real-world music practice — clubs, studios, international projects
• Clear outcomes — engagement, attendance, confidence, progression

Who I work with

• Schools & Colleges — mainstream, SEND, AP
• Charities & Community Organisations
• Music Services & Hubs
• Individuals & Families (commissioned or private)

For schools & organisations

Email richie@grooveschool.org with:

• A brief outline of your learners
• What you’re hoping to achieve
• Any known funding route (if applicable)

For parents & individuals

Get in touch to discuss 1:1 mentoring, private lessons or commissioned packages.

Referral or enquiry does not imply funded provision.