Case studies › St Mary's
Drum Circle: a rhythm that sets the tone for the week
A weekly drumming group for pupils chosen by the school. Held early in the week, it helps the children settle, and the sound of it lifts the mood across the school.
Small-group wellbeing · RhythmSt Mary the Virgin CE Primary School, Hartfield · 2025 to 2026
What we did
We met St Mary's in September 2025. It is a small village school of about 80 pupils where music is already valued, and around 30% of pupils receive SEND support, mainly for autism, speech and language needs, and ADHD. We proposed starting with a Drum Circle and with Music Boost classroom support; a lunchtime choir followed. The Drum Circle is a weekly session early in the week for about 10 pupils chosen by the school, led by Drum Together and fully funded by Beautiful Noise. Sessions are game-based: the group works towards a shared result, and the drumming gives children a physical outlet for energy and feelings.
Why
Group rhythm work can help children with physical regulation, concentration and motor skills, and it builds a sense of belonging without the pressure of performing alone. With so many pupils receiving SEND support, it was the clearest place to start.
Impact
In a review in October 2026 the headteacher said the school was very grateful for all the funded work over the year and would like all of it to continue. Holding it early in the week helps the children taking part to settle and regulate before the week gets going. It also lifts the mood of the whole school, because the drumming can be heard well beyond the room where it happens.