A DJ school in Newquay that transforms lives of neurodivergent and non-traditional learners is in need of a funding boost to secure its future.

Amplify SW based in Trencreek is at risk of closure due to rising costs, increasing demand and the complex needs of the young people as its current funding is no longer enough.

The Community Interest Company is seeking investment, sponsorship and long-term partnerships from businesses, social investors, philanthropists and events partners to sustain and grow its DJ school. The future plans include securing alternative provision settings across Cornwall, providing bursaries and free places for the young people who need it most and investing in equipment, staff and safeguarding to keep programmes safe, inclusive and high quality.

Amplify SW delivers music education to SEND alternative provisions, academy trusts, youth clubs and community groups across Cornwall.

The organisation, which is supported by the National Lottery and the Boardmasters Foundation, has curated stage takeovers and workshops at festivals including Rock Oyster Festival, Golowan Festival and Kernowtopia.

Amplify SW was founded by mum of two Natalie Nicholas, who is a festival producer, DJ and music educator. She said: “The students are young people who don’t always fit the mould of traditional education. A mix of neurodivergent, creative, passionate and fiercely talented, we give them the technical skills, the confidence and the platform to be heard.

“The stage has always belonged to the few. We’re levelling the playing field to provide opportunities for talented young people, and to inspire future generations.

“We know our approach works. We see anxious, withdrawn young people grow into confident performers, collaborators and leaders. But we can’t do it on passion alone. We need partners who believe in Cornwall’s young people as much as we do.

“Amplify SW is keen to connect with local businesses looking for meaningful, visible community impact, social investors and philanthropists who believe in inclusion, education and the arts and festival and events partners seeking authentic grassroots talent to help secure the future of the school and its young people.

“Opportunities to get involved include programme sponsorship and naming rights, long-term strategic partnerships, corporate social responsibility collaborations and one-off or recurring donations to Save Our School and fund bursaries.”

Amplify SW’s students are set to take over a stage at Boardmasters.

Natalie said: “For many of these young people, stepping onto this stage will be the biggest thing they’ve ever done.

“This isn’t just a performance slot. This is a moment. It’s proof that grassroots music education creates real pathways not just into music, but into confidence, community and a sense of belonging.

“This takeover with Boardmasters brings partnership and community connection to life in the most visible way possible. On the stage, in front of thousands of people, at a festival that puts Cornwall on the global map.

“We’re building the next generation of Cornwall’s music scene. Young people who might never have found their place without this space. With the right backing, we can make sure this isn’t a one-off moment at Boardmasters, but the start of something much bigger.”