"Absolute Clarity"
As part of a year-long development project on the use of iPads across a range of music education settings (instrumental, first access, primary and special schools and composer-in-residence), Phil provided an introductory training session for teachers and managers. The session was excellent, providing the time for everyone to explore within a safe and supportive environment, to learn some fundamental operating protocols across all apps, and to discuss amongst the team some core principles for the use of the iPads in a variety of contexts. As always, Phil provided absolute clarity on technical issues, great encouragement for exploration and creativity, and set lots of minds buzzing about the best way to use the equipment for music education. He was also able to provide sensible approaches to the vast market of apps, and ideas on how to find further self-help materials.
"Profound Impact"
You have such a profound impact on the children and the staff really look forward to seeing you too. The added value you give to everyone you work with and the wonderful contributions to the lives of our children cannot be under estimated. You leave a big hole behind you. I’m not confident that it can be filled Phil. Thank you for everything you have given us, it has all been very much appreciated and received with joy.
Penrose PMLD School Liz Hayward, Head Teacher
"Totally Reliable"
We know we are offering quality musical moments for our students and staff when Phil leads the sessions. Totally reliable and professional - I recommend him without reservation.
South Gloucestershire Music Service Christine Wright, Teaching and Learning Music Adviser
"Outstanding Teaching"
Phil has worked with numerous students who have a huge range of needs over many years at Critchill School. His work consistently challenges all of them to achieve. His outstanding teaching produces outstanding progress and outcomes. Students are always delighted to work with him and they are invariably thrilled with their accomplishments.
Critchill School Mark Armstrong, Head Teacher, Somerset
"Bring a Voice to Students"
Phil worked with a cohort of our students with more profound and multiple learning difficulties and enabled them to bring their creative energies into form though musical performance. It is abundantly clear that his way of working can bring a voice to those students who are non-verbal and offer them a huge boost in terms of self awareness and confidence. Rather than highlighting our students' challenges, Phil provided a platform from which their strengths and talents could be truly celebrated.
Three Ways School, Bath from Bath UK Ben Edwards, Creativity Coordinator, Music Coordinator
"Loads of Fun"
Phil's training workshop was relaxing and engaging. It was loads of fun and very useful. There was a careful selection of programs, especially ‘eJay’ and we were allowed to experiment with the programs and explore them in our own time. I really felt at ease.Thank you, really enjoyed the workshop and feel inspired. Loved the idea of children making an album from their work.
Bath Spa University Richard Hershman - Student Teacher from Bath UK
"Specialist Expertise"
The Dance E-Jay programme has offered our pupils the opportunity to create the kind of music they really want to hear. The software has developed their musical understanding and appreciation and they have learnt to evaluate each other's music precisely and skilfully. We have been proud to play the results in assembly, at our school disco and even as part of a church service! Phil Heeley delivers the lessons with an excellent balance of specialist expertise and clear, simple language. The result is that all abilities and ranges of musician can access the work which may then be differentiated by outcome. Phil blends superb teaching skills with a love of his subject which is infectious for pupils and staff alike. Every child's musical ability and understanding of pitch, rhythm and dynamics has developed since we began using Dance E-Jay and I would wholeheartedly recommend the programme and Phil Heeley to schools everywhere.
Piers Ranger Year 4 Teacher, St. Benedict's C of E Junior School, Glastonbury