Music Therapy
Inspiring connection, communication and creativity through music
At Craighalbert, music therapy is delivered in partnership with Nordoff and Robbins, the UK’s largest music therapy charity. Their highly trained therapist works closely with our team to support the emotional, social and communication development of children and young people with complex communication, learning, health, and care needs.
Music therapy provides a creative outlet for pupils to express themselves, build relationships and experience a sense of confidence and control in a safe, supportive space. Working one-to-one or in small groups, the therapist uses live music-making — including singing, instruments, rhythm, and movement — to create moments of shared attention, emotional connection and joy.
The therapist follows the child’s lead, responding musically in real time to their sounds, movements or actions. For many pupils, especially those who require AAC or have significant communication challenges, this is a rare chance to connect and be heard on their own terms.
Each session is carefully tailored to the individual, with goals that might include supporting emotional regulation, encouraging interaction, or fostering early communication. The therapist works closely with teachers, families and the wider multidisciplinary team to ensure a joined-up approach.
Through our partnership with Nordoff and Robbins, music becomes more than just an activity, it becomes a vital therapeutic tool that supports wellbeing, builds confidence, and creates meaningful learning opportunities for connection and growth.
Occupational Therapy
Occupational Therapy aspires to ensure that all the children we work with led full and happy lives.
We focus on helping them participate in meaningful activities (occupations) they need and want to do at school, at home and at play.
We work with children and young people, families, school staff, and the wider team to help overcome challenges relating to daily life activities.
About Nordoff & Robbins Music Therapy
Nordoff & Robbins Music Therapy are the UK’s largest independent music therapy charity, reaching across England, Scotland and Wales.
With over 60 years of experience delivering music therapy sessions to some of the most vulnerable people in
our society, their purpose is to break through any barriers created from illness, disability or life circumstance
with the power of music, creating space for people to express themselves and find connection in society.
They have a threefold mission in the way we carry out our music therapy: they deliver music therapy sessions
all over the UK to change the lives of vulnerable children and adults, they educate the next generation of music
therapists through their Master of Music Therapy and PhD programmes; and conduct research into the impact
of their work. Through their delivery, they support people of all ages and backgrounds from children and adults
with special education needs and autism spectrum disorder, to barriers with mental health, physical
impairment, dementia, homelessness, loneliness, domestic abuse, terminal illness and many more.
Their music therapists are registered health professionals with the Health and Care Professions Council. Their
vision is to live in a world where people’s true potential is realised through music, regardless of disability,
illness or social exclusion. Therefore, their goal is to provide high quality music therapy and increase
accessibility for vulnerable people across the UK, so that these barriers can be broken down.
Enquire about a placement
If you feel Craighalbert is the right place to support both your child and you, click the link below to submit an enquiry.
or you can call us on 01236 456 100 or email us admin@craighalbert.org.uk