Students at Australian Christian College (ACC) Singleton have struck a chord on their new musical equipment, thanks to a $3,700 donation from Ashton Coal.

The funding has purchased new musical instruments including 28 classical guitars and 28 ukelele’s to enhance the junior school music program.

Melissa Goodworth at Australian Christian College Singleton was delighted with the boost to the college’s music gear.

“As a school we have experienced considerable growth in student enrolments over the past five years, therefore we recognised the need to expand our musical equipment.

“The new guitars and ukeleles are helping engage and encourage our junior school children to play a musical instrument. The ukelele’s are specifically great for our 5 to 8 year-olds as they do not generally possess the dexterity to handle a guitar so the ukelele is a great option.

“Playing a musical instrument as a child is great for brain growth, memory, attention and concentration, creativity, coordination and can help to reduce stress.

“We are already seeing our students embrace the new guitars and ukelele’s, expressing themselves and have fun while playing them.

“Ashton Coal have provided financial assistance to us in the past to help improve our school and we are thankful again for their donation,” said Melissa.

Ashton Coal Operations Manager, Aaron McGuigan, was pleased to help improve resources at the college.

“Schools are an essential part of our community, helping our local children grow and develop. We are proud to contribute to enhancing the resources and equipment at Australian Christian College Singleton.

“Our Community Support Program is designed to help make a positive difference to the people that live in our local community, and this is an educational project with the potential to be enjoyed by hundreds of students in the years ahead,” said Aaron.