For our Alumna of the Month interview, we spoke to Amelia Clapham, Founder Ace Music Therapy.
Can you briefly describe your current role and what you do day-to-day?
I am the founder of Ace Music Therapy CIC, a social enterprise based in Chelmsford supporting individuals of all ages and abilities to express themselves and develop vital communication skills through music therapy. My day to day work varies, sometimes I may be leading a mum and baby group, supporting mums to bond with their babies and enhance their postnatal wellbeing through musical interactions. Other days I may be assessing individuals in their homes and schools to see whether they would benefit from music therapy.
I also manage the team and deal with the day to day and operational management of the organisation. I spend a lot of time sourcing funding and seeking opportunities for growth and sponsorship to enable us to support as many individuals as possible.
What was your path after leaving Bromley High School, and how did you get to where you are now?
After leaving Bromley High School and a fun filled summer, I went straight to Lancaster University to study Music and German studies. I spent four years studying, including a year in Germany teaching English as a foreign language in a school. I graduated with a 2.1 in 2012 and then went on to work as a Graduate Assistant at Benenden Boarding School in Kent. Whilst there I supported the boarders, planned and managed the weekend extra-curricular programme and did some teaching. In 2013, I went to Anglia Ruskin University in Cambridge to follow my dream and study Music Therapy. I qualified in 2015 with an MA and then went on to work for an organisation for two years before deciding I wanted to set up my own non profit, with my vision to enable music therapy to be as accessible to all similar to talking therapies.
What skills or experiences from Bromley High School have helped you the most in your career?
Bromley High School gave me multiple opportunities to develop my confidence, from performing music in prestigious venues to public speaking opportunities. Still to this day I enjoy public speaking and remember giving a speech in French at Prize Giving to report on the French Homestay visit. Bromley High School opened my eyes to the wider world through wonderful trips across Europe and also the amazing World Challenge experience to Zambia.
What was one challenge you faced in your career, and how did you overcome it?
Covid was probably the biggest challenge I faced in my career, as Ace was still in its infancy and suddenly we could not deliver the vital work we were used to delivering. However, this taught us new skills, how to deliver music therapy online and enabled us to set up a new music therapy service within the NHS supporting individuals who were suffering from Long Covid. Covid required thinking outside of the box and being creative with ideas and plans, but creativity is where I thrive so for me out of this challenge came opportunity.
What advice would you give to current Sixth Formers who are thinking about their future?
Get involved in voluntary work, supporting others in your local community not only enables you to meet people who will shape your world with their thoughts and ideas but also is great for your CV. Take advantage of extra curricular activities, not only at school but beyond. I was very active in many clubs and societies at university and this shaped who I am today, and I am still an active member of a local wind band. Extra curricular activities are so good for your mental wellbeing and giving you a space to express yourself and discover yourself outside of your school and working world.
Is there anything you wish you’d known about work or university when you were at school?
That it’s ok to ask for help and to let people help you. There are so many people out there who are open to supporting you and shaping your journey, don’t be afraid to use them. I’ve got a board of directors, volunteers, who help me with so many different aspects of Ace and all it took was an initial introduction and asking them if they’d like to help support a non- profit organisation. I’ve also had various mentors and coaches and also therapy in my professional life all of which has shaped who I am and continues to do so. Growth is so important, keep growing and enjoying every moment of this beautiful life.