In 2008, Krissy — a DJ and youth worker — built a mobile outreach unit and drove music sessions straight into the neighbourhoods that needed them most. The work later featured on Dragons' Den.
Eighteen years on, the academy, a Community Interest Company — still runs on the same principle: that the quickest way to reach a young person is to bring the music to their door.
Free music education and industry opportunities for young people across London.
Music reaches across every background. We use it to connect with some of the most deprived parts of the city — and to open a door that stays open.
A large team, and a crew of youth ambassadors who help shape what we do. Many of our tutors first walked in as participants.
Then they came back to teach. That alumni-to-tutor pathway is at the heart of our success with young people.
Alumni have gone on to record deals, MOBO nominations, Sony ATV contracts and millions of streams — under the academy's own music label.
Schools, colleges, councils, funders, housing providers and community organisations we have delivered with over 18 years.









































































































Just a few of the young people who have come through the Academy and are now inspiring artists, industry leaders and tutors alike.

Bellah, the prodigious talent nurtured under our wings for seven transformative years, now stands as a beacon of contemporary UK R&B. Nominated for a coveted MOBO award and hailed as the artist to watch in 2023, her journey epitomizes the fusion of soulful melodies and candid lyricism. Drawing inspiration from luminaries like Summer Walker, Kehlani, and SZA, Bellah infuses her British Nigerian heritage into her music, crafting a sound that resonates deeply with audiences.
With her debut EP, Adultsville, she solidified her status as the UK's new princess of R&B, offering a nostalgic nod to the genre's golden era while carving out her unique space in today's musical landscape. Her ability to effortlessly blend raw emotion with infectious hooks has earned her accolades from industry titans and critical acclaim from platforms like Complex and BBC 1Xtra. As she continues to ascend, Bellah's trajectory symbolizes the resurgence of authentic storytelling in music, captivating hearts and minds with every soul-stirring note.

NorthsFinest, DJ EDOTT, is a dynamic force in the international music scene, hailing from North London. With two prestigious awards under his belt, DJ EDOTT is celebrated for his electrifying stage presence, commanding vocal ability, and impeccable song selections that guarantee to get any crowd on their feet. A true polymath of his craft, DJ EDOTT discovered his passion for music at the tender age of 12 and has since dedicated himself to honing his skills, amassing over 10,000 hours of experience behind the decks. Boasting over 3 million plays and having performed in over 30 countries, DJ EDOTT is recognized as the ultimate party DJ.
His roots in the vibrant sounds of African music, coupled with his father's influence as the renowned DJ ANDRE TOKYO, have shaped his eclectic musical palette, making him a sought-after talent in the Afrobeat scene. From headlining AfroNation to gracing prestigious venues like The Royal Albert Hall and the O2 Arena, DJ EDOTT's electrifying performances transcend genres and captivate audiences worldwide. With an impressive resume that includes live mixes on BBC 1XTRA and guest appearances on Capital Xtra, DJ EDOTT continues to push boundaries and redefine the art of DJing, earning him support credits alongside industry heavyweights like Wizkid, Lil Simz, and Tinie Tempah.

Tahliah Debrett Barnett, known by her stage name FKA Twigs, is a multifaceted British artist renowned for her groundbreaking contributions to music, dance, and fashion. Before captivating global audiences with her genre-bending soundscapes and avant-garde performances, Twigs honed her craft as a dance tutor at The DJMC Academy in 2011.
From those formative years, she emerged as a trailblazing singer-songwriter, dancer, and visual artist, captivating audiences worldwide with her unique blend of electronic music, trip hop, R&B, and avant-garde influences. Twigs' meteoric rise to prominence includes critically acclaimed albums such as LP1 and Magdalene, along with her recent mix-tape, Caprisongs, released under Atlantic Records. With a Grammy nomination, numerous accolades, and a groundbreaking NME Godlike Genius award to her name, FKA Twigs continues to push artistic boundaries and inspire generations with her unparalleled creativity and visionary approach to artistry.

Kenny Barber also known as BXRBER embodies the transformative power of music, having begun his journey as a young adult assisting on workshops before blossoming into a celebrated artist and industry leader. With a background as a singer-songwriter signed to Sony ATV, BXRBER's evolution from grass roots involvement to professional success is a testament to his unwavering dedication and passion for music.
Currently serving as the Relationship Manager at PRS for Music, BXRBER plays a pivotal role in supporting and promoting high-profile songwriters, producers, and music publishers. Additionally, as the Managing Director of Sonitus Music Group, he oversees a talented roster including R&B sensation Bellah and a diverse array of tour management projects. BXRBER's journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring artists and industry professionals alike, highlighting the boundless possibilities within the realm of music.

Christian, a visionary talent who began his journey at The DJMC Academy in 2011, has ascended to become a prominent figure in the music industry. From his humble beginnings, Christian has navigated the complex landscape of the music business with unparalleled expertise and determination. As a seasoned music manager, he has forged partnerships with some of the biggest labels in the industry, overseeing major publishing and distribution deals, and signing artists with top live agencies.
Christian's prowess extends to A&R'ing EPs and albums, orchestrating successful radio campaigns with esteemed platforms like BBC and Capital Xtra, and masterfully managing live shows and tours. His innate ability to cultivate new relationships with labels, publishers, artists, and producers on a global scale has solidified his reputation as a true industry maven.
Notably, Christian's impressive portfolio includes liaising artists with brands, a testament to his unique approach to artist development and brand integration. Christian manages Bellah, exemplifying his unwavering dedication to nurturing talent and shaping the future of the music industry.

Glenn Sonko, a seasoned professional with roots in education and mentorship, initially taught on a course at Barnet College before extending his expertise to mentoring with the DJMC Academy. His journey has led him to manage renowned artists such as Tion Wayne and Potter Payper, showcasing his exceptional talent in artist management.
Additionally, Glenn holds a pivotal role as an A&R representative for Def Jam, contributing his keen insights and industry experience to the renowned record label. With his remarkable track record and dedication to nurturing talent, Glenn Sonko continues to shape the landscape of the music industry, earning him widespread recognition and admiration.

Dre is currently one of our youth ambassadors and a dedicated participant who has grown significantly through his involvement with DJMC Academy. He first engaged with our programme by attending sessions delivered at the NYCC youth centre, supported by youth music funding.
Dre has always had a deep passion for music, beginning to write lyrics as early as the age of 5. His talent and commitment became evident early on, and he went on to win Borough United at the age of 13. Since then, he has remained consistently involved with our sessions and activities.
He has performed at City Hall as part of the VRU (Violence Reduction Unit), showcasing his development as an artist and performer. In addition, Dre has achieved his AQA qualification in Music Production and Lyric Writing, further strengthening his creative and technical abilities.
Dre's journey demonstrates long-term commitment, natural talent, and the positive impact of sustained support within youth music programmes.

Emmanuel is one of our current youth ambassadors and has become an active and inspiring member of our programme. He was first introduced to DJMC Academy by Terence, who encouraged him to attend sessions and explore his interest in music.
Since joining, Emmanuel has actively participated in a range of workshops and projects, including the Sound of Edmonton initiative. Through these opportunities, he has developed both his musical ability and collaborative skills.
Emmanuel has also achieved notable success, including winning at Borough United at the age of 16. He has performed at City Hall as part of the VRU (Violence Reduction Unit) programme and taken part in live jam sessions at the Pavilion alongside other musicians. His involvement extends beyond his local area, as he has collaborated across different boroughs, working with like-minded individuals who share a passion for music.
His journey reflects the importance of peer support, creative collaboration, and access to structured opportunities.

Kiki's journey at DJMC Academy showcases the impact that creative opportunities can have on a young person's confidence, talent and future.
As one of our Youth Ambassadors, Kiki has gone on to achieve incredible milestones, including winning Borough United 2026, speaking on the Spotify x Youth Music Open Panel, and performing at major community events including Finsbury Park Festival and Enfield Youth Day.
Through her dedication and passion for music, Kiki has grown into a confident performer and inspiring role model, representing DJMC Academy while encouraging other young people to pursue their creative ambitions.
Her achievements are a testament to what can be accomplished when young people are given the opportunity, support and platform to thrive.

Grace, a dedicated member of our community, first joined us at the tender age of 13. Now at 20, she has blossomed into an exceptional singer, showcasing remarkable growth and talent. Continuously contributing to our mission, Grace now serves as an assistant tutor, leveraging her experience and passion to inspire others. Her journey has been marked by notable TV appearances, further solidifying her presence as a rising star in the music industry. Grace is undeniably one to watch as she continues to make waves with her undeniable talent and unwavering dedication.
Feedback from schools, colleges, councils, housing providers, football clubs, youth clubs, corporate partners and young people themselves.
A long overdue and huge thank you for the set you did at the prom in July. The kids were so delighted with the party. The vast majority never get to experience anything like this and rarely socialise outside of school, so thank you for playing a massive part in the celebrations and taking the karaoke mob in your stride!
Haringey Council's High Road West team has been collaborating with the British DJ Academy for the past 18 months to enhance the community engagement offer for the area.
Krissy and her dedicated team have supported children and young people who are not in education, training, or employment. Through their uplifting and inspiring programme, they have created avenues where young people can thrive. The DJ Academy mentorship has brought opportunities and joy to many young people in Tottenham, and we are thrilled to have formed such a solid partnership that will continue to support many more young people.
It has been a pleasure to work in partnership with The DJ and MC Academy over the last couple of years. They have shown dedication and commitment to the projects at our youth centre and the young people have responded with great enthusiasm for the DJ'ing and MC'ing projects. A young person who attended a DJ course in June said – ‘More people know me and I feel more confident speaking on the mic to them. Over the summer I DJ'ed more and spoke on the mic and taught other people. I also showed older people how to use the decks.’
The work the academy does with children and young adults has a significant positive impact on their lives and self-esteem. The Academy has always been very flexible with our needs. We would definitely recommend the DJ & MC Experience for corporate and team building events – it is very different, extremely energising and great fun!
What a wonderful addition to a really brilliant panel! We're so grateful to you for coming along and offering such crucial insight on such an important topic. The feedback from the room has been really wonderful - I think the message was super strong, particularly the emphasis on needing spaces for young people to not only express creativity but to develop essential social skills. I hope you were able to make a few connections too! It would be great to do something in the future again.
The DJ'ing at the LFA opening party was a great success, thanks for working with them to make it happen. It was great to have part of the Barnet programme represented live at the event. It was wonderful to see some of the college students engaging.
The DJ Academy brought an incredible energy to the Black History Haringey 365 launch event. Their music created a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere that reflected the spirit of the event. It was inspiring to see local talent engaging the community and showcasing the cultural richness of Haringey. We’re grateful for their professionalism and creativity, and we look forward to working with them again on future events.
Thank you for supplying the music for last night's launch event, the service was fantastic and really added that extra touch to the event!
I am told that the footage of yesterday’s event does not do justice to what happened yesterday. Your staff and performer brought the mobile youth hub into a new level of excellence. Jordan will be reaching out to follow up with you about the impact yesterday’s performance had and would like to explore more opportunities to promote your work and empower our young people.
DJMC Academy has delivered outstanding workshops at Boundary Court, helping young people gain confidence, learn new skills, and enjoy music in a fun, inclusive setting. These sessions have fostered local friendships, supported community events on the estate, and strengthened neighbourhood connections. We greatly value their professionalism and positive impact.
We wanted to say a huge thank you for being part of the Pavilion Summer Programme! Your participation helped make it a real success, and we appreciate your support in it.
Fred did a great job, there was a really great atmosphere up on L37 every evening.
I loved, LOVED the DJ workshop. We would like to try get you guys to a tournament this summer!
The students thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to create and perform alongside the professionals. They really blossomed in confidence as the weeks went on. All students, irrespective of their needs, were able to participate and all of the DJ & MC Academy team were very gentle, calm and understanding with the students.
The British DJ & MC Academy sessions were a fantastic experience for our class. The DJs were incredibly understanding of the children's varied needs and patient when focus was difficult. They created a calm, fun, and supportive atmosphere where every child could shine. Writing a song together and dancing to our own music was an unforgettable highlight!
DJMC has been absolutely incredible in their work with our special needs learners at West Lea School. Their passion, patience, and talent create a truly inclusive and engaging musical experience for everyone involved. Through music, they bring joy, confidence, and creativity to our learners, helping them express themselves in ways words often can't.
The energy and enthusiasm DJMC brings to each session are infectious, and the impact they have on our learners is profound. Whether it's through interactive DJing, beat-making, or simply creating a space where everyone feels heard and valued, DJMC makes a real difference.
We are so grateful for their dedication and the positive impact they have on our community. Thank you, DJMC, for your brilliant work!
We have loved every second of working with the DJMC Academy. It has been great for us to see our pupils so engaged and willing to learn about something they have probably never considered doing before. Staff took the time to get to know our pupils and build relationships with them using music and art as a hook to capture their imaginations. We hope to be able to work with DJMC Academy again in the future to produce more amazing work together.
I enjoyed the workshop as it helped me to express my emotions by playing music. It was so much fun. I really do hope we can work with them again. The staff were really welcoming and didn't make us feel bad for making mistakes. They taught us several times and were very patient with us.
The DJ Workshop was fun and exciting! We got to learn new things as well as how a radio show would operate. We had fun and are grateful to have had them come in.
We were excited to welcome the DJ and MC Academy to Chipping Barnet Library on Wednesday 14 February for Superstar DJs!
22 children had the opportunity to learn how to mix and match rhythms using professional DJ equipment under the guidance of teachers from the Academy at this fun, hands-on Creative Communities event. They took turns using the decks and selecting and mixing songs, using volume and other effects like reverb and delay.
The children also had the chance to create their own radio show and there was a group presentation at the end of the event, where they welcomed the audience to their radio show while music played in the background. Superstar DJs was a fantastic event with a diverse and fun selection of music and everyone really enjoyed it, and the event also demonstrated the power of music to connect with and unite everyone in our community.
At the end of the 90 minute session, there was a lot of positive feedback – including the parents, who wanted to join in, too!
We appreciate you working with us. Hopefully, we will work together again in the near future.
The DJ & MC Academy have provided a lively and young person led programme of work. The tutors are able to relate to the young people they are working with enabling all to take part. The way in which the team are able to adapt ensures that young people participate and create pieces of work that reflect their achievements. The relaxed and flowing style of the workers allows the project to be fluid allowing for spontaneous learning to occur at all stages.
Turning Words Into Dreams was one of the most popular courses making up GLYPT's Summer Arts College in 2010. I was really impressed with the quality and skill of the artists delivering the programme.
The workshop was great. The tutors showed the young people how to set up the decks, they had time on the mic, beat matching, and brainstorming for their radio station. Time went really quick and the young people were really engaged!
The British DJ and MC Academy are a great organisation to work with, delivering the highest standard of workshops in a fun and exciting manner for all that take part. Across all the Nike Five Legacy events they delivered a fantastic atmosphere and kept the energy levels high. It was a real privilege to work with such a passionate group of people and I look forward to working with them in the future.
It was a really fabulous afternoon and the groups and staff had a great time so thank you so much!
Just a few notes on the good work that you and your team have done on these estates with the youth.
The tutors have been really welcoming and have developed an excellent rapport with the students. Even when the singers were behaving like 'divas', their patience, professionalism and pedagogy was apt for the students. I look forward to working with the DJ & MC Academy again...
The British DJMC Academy have been warmly received by our students, who have loved the opportunity to experience writing lyrics and then getting the chance to perform them on a microphone. Their staff are extremely friendly and seem to have a lot of experience working with and supporting students.
Once again a big thank you to you and your team. The kids really loved it!!!!
After speaking with colleagues they have mentioned that sessions are going really well.
DJing was great! The students had a fantastic time, even played a couple for us old teachers, which went down well.
Working with the DJMC Academy has been an absolute pleasure. They are really professional; promote good values among students and really know how to have fun when doing so! I was so impressed with how flexible they were in creating our individual programme and the willingness to keep going until it was perfect. And, it was perfect! There is no doubt that this day and the important message about safety will not be forgotten. Great energy – hope to see you for more inspiration soon!
The Academy was enjoyed by all those who attended, with many young people demonstrating a natural ability in mixing and making music.
The academy has been a huge success, we have seen some real talent and potential in the young people who have taken part, as well as increased confidence and self-esteem. The academy has given them the chance to try something new and has equipped them with valuable skills...
A big thank you to you and your team for Saturday, should we decide to hold any other events in the future and would be more than happy to use the Bass Station once again.
For almost a year, the DJ Academy has been running very successful DJing and MCing sessions in the Carnsbourne area including Colorado and Danube apartments.
The British DJ & MC Academy delivered an excellent specialised course to young people as part of the Greenwich Summer University that was both lively and focused. I was particularly impressed by how the tutors and guest speakers not only provided expert advice and guidance in music and DJ skills but also provided an insight into future careers and improving aspirations that was delivered with enthusiasm and passion…I was also massively impressed by the resources and in particular the 4×4! Very cool!
From my records, I have worked out that DJ Academy have delivered 131 sessions in total, Many Thanks! :)
Great team to work with, everyone is both extremely professional and friendly. The workshops have been fun and interactive. The young people at our projects have developed both their confidence and skills.
British DJ & MC Academy ran a brilliant workshop on using music to tackle street crime at an event we put on in November 08. The facilitators related really well to the young people. The workshop itself was really engaging and fun and the young people absolutely loved it!
The DJ & MC Academy are a breath of fresh air…with high energy, total commitment and breathtaking enthusiasm their work with young people never fails to producing far reaching positive results. To discover your talents and creativity is a gift and the academy provide thy gift for young people everyday.
The British DJ academy is an organisation that is very forward thinking and very driven by what the community wants in particular young people... it has a very good understanding of partnership work and is very happy to listen to new ideas... but most importantly it has a real passion for the arts and teaching young people how to be the best in this field.
The British DJ & MC Academy have been contracted by London Action Trust to deliver diversionary programmes to young people from high crime gang affected estates on the Waltham Forest gangs intervention project. Activities included open music workshops and accredited courses over a period of 12 weeks. They have successfully engaged young people in positive activity teaching techniques, lyric writing and radio presenting skills.
The young people have learned how to create and perform demonstrating a transition in their thought processes, thinking about their aspirations and directions in life. British DJ & MC Academy have remained professional, enthusiastic and have made every effort to develop the young people using minimal resources. I am willing to support this organisation because I sincerely believe the team have great motivation and a proven track record to make a change in the communities by offering young people alternative paths.
Barnet Homes have worked with British DJ and MC Academy for over four years now and they have delivered on a number of successful events and projects. The young people that they have work with enjoy the interaction and opportunity to have real hands-on support to learn how to DJ, MC or write music. Great organisation with a real personalised family feel.
I appreciate the opportunity the youth club at TAB has given me. I look forward to visiting the studio, learning to use the equipment and getting the chance to create my own sound. No matter which member of staff is at the studio they are always willing to share their knowledge and encourage my passion for music. See you back in the studio soon!
I'd just like to say a big thank you to you and the team as they were spectacular. They really livened things up and I would definitely recommend The DJ and MC Academy to others.
I just want to say a massive thank you for supporting the event, the DJ workshop got rave reviews.
The London DJ&MC Academy were great, they engaged with all our customers and ensured that each young person understood everything. The kids had nothing but positive feedback to give on the friendliness of staff. We definitely would recommend using them.
We found The British DJ & MC Academy really fascinating and thought that it was a very engaging and interactive activity for children and young people within the community.
Krissy and the team at The DJ and MC Academy have supported the College at numerous events over the past few years, they have always been a delight to work with from event conception through to event day. Whilst providing fun and engaging sessions for our students they also inspire them to learn and discover new skills. We would happily recommend the team to anyone looking to book their services.
We deliver social-impact programmes that tackle anti-bullying, knife crime and exclusion — through radio presenting, recording, music production and literacy. Music gives young people a reason to engage and a way to be heard.
Sessions run inside the school day or after it, and can lead to accredited qualifications.
So many youth clubs have a studio gathering dust. We train your staff and youth leaders to run it — turning a redundant room back into a space young people actually want to be in.
And our core youth crew showcase their talent on outreach alongside yours — peer to peer, the way it lands best.
Outreach and signposting is what we specialise in. The solar DJ van takes music into parks, estates and high streets — and we connect young people to the partner services they need.
Joint funding applications welcome — 18 years of delivery makes us a strong bid partner.
Workshops can be one-off, a half-term block, or a full year — shaped around your group and your goals.
Sessions are free for young people. Fees from schools and organisations keep the studios open.
We charge schools and organisations a fee that covers running costs — staff, equipment and studio time — so that every session can stay free at the point a young person walks in.
With an 18-year track record, we're a strong delivery partner for funding bids — and we welcome organisations approaching us to apply for joint grants.
Free weekly sessions across our centres — just turn up, or register first.
Every session runs at no cost. Fill in the membership form below — or scan the code to register from your phone.
Every donation keeps sessions free, fuels the solar van and puts kit in young people's hands.
Every purchase puts kit in young people's hands and keeps sessions free.
Articles from the DJ & MC Academy blog on youth music projects, schools outreach, community radio and creative workshops.
See 7 school music outreach success examples that build confidence, attendance, skills and community trust through youth-led creative programmes.
Learn how to build community radio projects that engage young people, grow local voices, and create lasting impact through music and media.
Why do schools need enrichment activities? They build confidence, attendance, belonging and real-world skills classrooms alone cannot always provide.
Can music projects reduce youth violence? See how DJing, MCing and production workshops build trust, skills and safer futures for young people.
Schools music partnerships help young people build confidence, skills and belonging through creative programmes that support learning and inclusion.
Anti gang youth workshops give young people safer outlets, trusted mentors and real skills through music, creativity and community-led engagement.