Star supporting Gary Barlow visits Kibble kids in Paisley for music session

Rising music star and Channel 4's The Piano winner Brad Kella visited Kibble's Goudie Academy to meet with care-experienced young people, share his story and inspire the next generation of musicians.

Article Source: Kibble
Last Updated: 11 June 2025 9:57

Brad, who himself is foster care-experienced, is currently touring with Gary Barlow who appeared at the SEC Armadillo on 27 – 28 May.

After receiving a letter from one of the school’s teachers, Brad jumped at the opportunity to spend his time off stage visiting young people with similar backgrounds to his own, and who share his passion for creating music.

The champion pianist spent time at Kibble – a specialist care and education provider – performing and connecting with young people who are working towards their Arts Award qualifications using his music and journey as direct inspiration.

“While I was up in Glasgow, I visited Kibble, and it was the most I've smiled in a long time,” said Brad. “The love and passion for music streamed throughout the classroom. I shared my story with kids and let them know anything was possible in life. It doesn’t matter if you’re care-experienced or come from a family with not a lot of money, you can still achieve anything. The children listened so intently to what I had to say and were a credit to their school with the way they behaved. Kibble will always hold a special place in my heart.”

Kibble supports care-experienced young people from across Scotland through a therapeutic, trauma-informed approach that places creativity and expression at the heart of learning and wellbeing. Today’s visit shines a spotlight on the transformative power of the arts in helping young people build confidence, identity and aspiration.

Jackie Swan, Director of Education, Kibble said: “Brad is living proof that care-experienced young people can achieve incredible things with the right support.
“His story resonates deeply with our young people and shows them what’s possible when you have ambition, the right tuition, and a supportive network around you.”

Through programmes in music, drama, visual art and film – including unique partnerships with organisations such as Scottish Ballet and the Royal Scottish National Orchestra – Kibble offers a range of opportunities for young people to develop their talents, express emotion and support wellbeing.

Laura Cairns, Education Manager at Kibble, shared how Brad’s session complements existing projects at Kibble.

She explained: “From our in-house band ‘The Kosmonauts’ to our Halloween parade float and film curriculum, the expressive arts are a vital part of our educational offering. Brad’s visit reinforces for our young people that their voices, creativity, and stories matter.”

Kibble’s holistic approach includes residential care, therapeutic services and education tailored to meet the needs of young people with complex backgrounds. All young people are supported by a team of professionals including psychologists, counsellors, teachers, and care workers.

Brad’s visit is also a timely reminder of the need for more foster carers in Scotland. The talented young musician won The Piano with an emotive composition created in tribute to his foster carers’ unwavering love and support.

Jackie added: “Hearing Brad’s journey through music, and his ambition to make his foster carers and family proud highlight the importance of positive role models for young people.”

For more information about fostering with Kibble or to learn about their expressive arts programmes, visit www.kibble.org

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