WANT2DJ
An easier way to learn DJing 🎶
How We Help
DJ learning that meets you where you are
Calm, supportive and personalised DJ learning for adults, young people and children.
No pressure. No jargon. Just a straightforward way to learn, create and enjoy music at your own pace.
Suitable for complete beginners, returning learners, neurodivergent learners and anyone who prefers a calmer way to learn.
Trusted by families, schools and community organisations across South Yorkshire.
Including
• Delta Academies Trust
• Sheffield City Trust
Available Across
Rotherham, Bassetlaw, Doncaster, Barnsley, Sheffield and the wider South Yorkshire region.
Discover → Develop → Practice → Apply
Session Availability
🎧 Tuesday evenings (7:00pm–9:00pm)
🎧 Friday evenings (6:00pm–8:00pm)
🎧 Saturday mornings (10:30am–12:00pm)
🎧 Saturday afternoons (1:00pm–3:00pm)
By appointment and subject to availability.
Want2DJ has delivered DJ sessions and school events for organisations including Delta Academies Trust and Sheffield City Trust, helping create safe, engaging music experiences for young people.
Curious About DJing?
No experience required. Tell us a little about yourself.
We'll help you find the best next step.
Not sure what you need?
Start with a callback request.
Ready to Get Started?
Ready to experience DJing for yourself?
Start Your DJ Journey with a 1-hour Introductory session
Music. Confidence. Creativity.
One conversation at a time.
A Different Approach to Learning
While many training providers focus on performance, results and speed, Want2DJ focuses on the person behind the learner.
What Makes Want2DJ Different?
✓ Learn at your own pace
✓ No pressure to perform
✓ Personalised support
✓ Practical, hands-on learning
✓ Confidence before complexity
✓ Sessions shaped around the individual
We recognise that everyone arrives with different experiences, strengths, challenges and starting points. Some learners already have equipment and experience. Others are starting from scratch. Both are equally welcome.
Our approach is built around confidence, understanding and sustainable progress. We help learners develop skills at a pace that feels right for them, so they can enjoy the process, build genuine competence and achieve things they may never have thought possible.
Learning is shaped around real life — your strengths, interests, support needs, confidence levels and capacity on any given day. Progress is measured against your own journey, not somebody else's timeline.
You do not need previous experience, equipment or technical knowledge.
We simply begin where you are and take the next step together.
Learners Often Leave With More Than DJ Skills
Alongside practical DJ and music skills, learners often develop:
• confidence and self-belief
• focus, concentration and attention to detail
• communication and social skills
• problem-solving and decision-making abilities
• organisation, planning and time management
• resilience when things don't go to plan
• independence and personal responsibility
• creativity and self-expression
• structure, routine and achievable goals
These are transferable life skills that can support young people and adults in education, employment, volunteering and greater independence.
There is no pressure to perform.
No expectation to "keep up".
No judgment if learning takes longer.
No assumption that one approach works for everyone.
Instead, we focus on creating the conditions that help each learner succeed.
Because DJing is not the destination.
DJing is the vehicle.
The real outcomes are confidence, independence, self-expression, agency and the belief that growth is possible.
Learning to DJ isn't just about playing music. It's about developing confidence, creativity, communication, leadership and life skills that can open doors far beyond the DJ booth.
Every learner is different.
There is no fixed pathway and no single destination.
We simply help you discover what works for you.
Choose the Environment That Works Best For You
🎧 I want private lessons: Calm, personalised 1:1 support focused on confidence, skills and practical learning.
🏠 I want support at home: Learn in a familiar environment and build confidence using your own equipment.
🏫 I want something for my school or organisation: Creative participation, enrichment and confidence-building programmes.
🎤 I want real-world experience: Develop communication, teamwork and presentation skills through community opportunities.
💻 I need support between sessions: Additional guidance, troubleshooting and encouragement between sessions.
🎧 STUDIO
Private experience, technical skill development and confidence
A structured 1:1 learning environment where learners can develop practical DJ skills, gain hands-on experience with equipment and software, build confidence at their own pace, and develop the responsibility, professionalism and technical understanding needed to manage their own equipment and creative projects.
🏫 SCHOOL
Discovery, engagement and participation
Small-group experiences that introduce learners to music, DJing, teamwork and creative expression through shared participation, exploration and contribution.
Learners are encouraged to try different roles, develop confidence, work collaboratively and discover new interests, strengths and abilities within a supportive environment.
🏠 HOME
Real-world practice and independence
Opportunities to develop confidence using personal equipment, build routines, practise independently and apply learning within everyday life.
Home-based learning helps learners develop greater independence, ownership and confidence by using their skills in real-world situations.
🎤 COMMUNITY
Application, contribution and performance
Supported opportunities to host, present, perform, engage audiences and contribute to community activities.
These experiences help learners build confidence, communication skills, responsibility and real-world experience while applying their learning in meaningful ways.
Want2DJ has worked alongside schools, families and organisations to provide inclusive, engaging and confidence-building opportunities through music, creativity and technology.
Want2DJ is continuing to build partnerships with schools, organisations and community groups across South Yorkshire to expand access to inclusive music and DJ learning opportunities.
DJ learning that meets you where you are
Discover → Develop → Practice → Apply
About Michelle
Michelle Shaw (previously Leverick) is a DJ tutor, creative mentor and founder of Want2DJ, with more than 30 years of professional DJ experience performing across the UK and internationally, including work on cruise ships.
For over 15 years, Michelle has helped children, young people and adults build confidence, develop practical skills and discover their own capabilities through music, creativity, technology and participation.
Known for breaking complex skills and technology into manageable steps, Michelle combines professional industry experience with patient, personalised support, creating a learning environment where learners can explore, learn and grow at their own pace.
Whether someone is completely new to DJing, finds technology overwhelming or is rebuilding confidence after a difficult chapter, sessions are designed to help learners feel capable, supported and successful.
Alongside DJ skills, learners are encouraged to develop confidence, independence, responsibility and real-world skills that can support success in education, employment and everyday life.
Alongside her work as a DJ tutor, Michelle is an author, speaker and creative mentor who helps people build confidence, reconnect with their authentic voice and discover new possibilities through creativity, learning and self-expression.
Why DJing?
DJing combines creativity, technology, problem-solving and self-expression in a way that few activities can.
It gives learners opportunities to make decisions, take responsibility, solve problems, work towards goals and experience success through something they genuinely enjoy.
Through music and DJing, learners naturally develop confidence, focus, communication, organisation and digital skills while working on something meaningful to them.
For many learners, DJing becomes more than a hobby. It becomes a vehicle for confidence, independence, structure and personal growth.
There is no single destination in DJing.
Some people want to play at parties.
Some want a creative hobby.
Some want to build confidence, skills or independence.
Others go on to perform, create original music, release tracks or become producers in their own right.
Whatever your reason for starting, DJing offers opportunities to create, explore and grow.
Every journey starts somewhere, and often all it takes is the confidence to take that first step.
Because learning to become the DJ of your own party can sometimes be the first step towards becoming the DJ of your own life.
When Sessions Take Place
To help maintain a high-quality, personalised service, sessions are currently available by appointment during the following times:
🎧 Tuesday Evenings – 7:00pm to 9:00pm
🎧 Friday Evenings – 6:00pm to 8:00pm
🎧 Saturday Mornings – 10:00am to 12:00pm
🎧 Saturday Afternoons – 1:00pm to 3:00pm
Sessions are arranged in advance and are subject to availability.
If these times don't work for you, please get in touch. Alternative arrangements may occasionally be available depending on circumstances.
There is no pressure to commit to ongoing sessions. Many learners begin with a single introductory session to explore whether Want2DJ feels like the right fit.
Start With a Simple Enquiry
How it works
Neurodivergent-Friendly Learning
Want2DJ welcomes learners with a wide range of learning styles, support needs and ways of processing information, including many people who are diagnosed as or identify as autistic, ADHD, dyslexic or otherwise neurodivergent.
Sessions may be particularly helpful for people who:
• struggle with concentration or maintaining focus
• feel overwhelmed by technology, equipment or too much information at once
• find fast-paced learning environments difficult
• benefit from practical, hands-on learning
• need time to process new information
• learn best through repetition and experience
• have lots of creative ideas but find it difficult to know where to start
• want support building confidence, structure and routine around a new skill
Sessions are adapted to the individual, not the label.
Skills That Grow Along the Way
While learning DJ skills, many learners also develop valuable life skills that support confidence in school, college, employment and everyday life.
These often include:
• focus and attention
• problem-solving and independent thinking
• patience and perseverance
• listening and timing
• confidence using technology
• organisation and routine-building
• accountability and personal responsibility
• making decisions and trusting your judgement
• expressing creativity and personal taste
For many learners, these skills develop naturally through music, helping them feel more confident not just behind the decks, but in everyday life.
Sometimes, the most important thing people gain from DJing isn't just the skill.
It's the confidence to try.
What to Expect
What Happens During a Session?
Before the session, we'll discuss what you're hoping to achieve and where sessions may take place.
The first session is often about getting comfortable, getting to know each other and exploring the equipment, music or technology together.
Every learner is different, so sessions are adapted to the individual, their interests, confidence levels, goals and support needs.
There is no pressure to perform, learn specific techniques or achieve particular outcomes.
The aim is simply to create a positive first experience, explore what interests you and identify what might be most helpful moving forward.
Session Lengths
Sessions can be arranged to suit the learner, their goals and the type of support required.
• 30 minutes – Suitable for introductions, focused support, mentoring check-ins or learners who benefit from shorter sessions.
• 60 minutes – A popular starting point, providing time to explore, learn and build confidence without feeling overwhelming.
• 90 minutes – Ideal for learners who prefer a slower pace, need more time to settle in or would like to explore skills in greater depth.
• 2 hours – Suitable for extended practical learning, equipment setup, project work or learners who benefit from longer periods of focused support.
These are simply guidelines. The most appropriate session length will depend on the individual learner, their confidence, interests, support needs and circumstances.
Session Frequency
There is no fixed schedule.
Studio and home sessions are often delivered monthly or fortnightly, giving learners time to practice and build confidence between sessions.
School and community programmes are typically delivered weekly to support consistency, participation and ongoing development.
Session frequency is always shaped around the learner, organisation and goals involved.
What Happens Next?
For some people, a single session is enough to try something new and enjoy the experience.
For others, it becomes the beginning of a wider journey involving music, technology, creativity, confidence-building and personal growth.
There is no fixed pathway and no expectation to continue.
We simply start where you are and explore what might be possible from there.
DJ Gift Vouchers
A unique music experience
Gift Vouchers
Looking for a unique gift for someone who loves music, creativity or trying new experiences?
Want2DJ gift vouchers provide an opportunity to explore DJing, music and technology in a relaxed, supportive and personalised environment.
Perfect for:
• birthdays and celebrations
• Christmas gifts
• young people interested in music or technology
• adults looking for a new hobby
• anyone curious about DJing but unsure where to start
Gift vouchers can be used towards introductory sessions, studio experiences or learning packages.
No experience or equipment is required — just curiosity and a willingness to give it a go.
Sometimes the best gifts aren't things. They're opportunities to discover new interests, build confidence and create lasting memories.
Gift vouchers are available in a range of values and can be personalised on request.
To arrange a gift voucher, simply get in touch and we'll help you choose the option that's right for them.
DJ Education & Programme Development
Supporting schools, organisations and community groups to develop sustainable music, DJ and creative participation opportunities.
From learner engagement and enrichment activities to progression pathways, equipment advice and student-led events, support is designed to help organisations create opportunities that learners can eventually take ownership of themselves.
Helping Learners To Gain the Skills and Confidence to Run It Themselves
Want2DJ helps learners develop confidence, skills and experience through creative projects, participation and real-world opportunities.
By exploring different roles, learners can discover their strengths, build confidence, develop leadership skills and gain experience that supports them both inside and outside the classroom.
Flexible Delivery
Programmes may be delivered through:
• small-group creative workshops
• enrichment activities
• alternative provision support
• confidence-building programmes
• learner-led DJ and participation projects
Progression Opportunities
For some learners, school-based sessions are the beginning of a wider journey.
As confidence grows, learners may progress towards studio-based learning, student-led projects, community activities and real-world opportunities involving participation, presentation, audience engagement and event support.
Inclusive and Safeguarding-Led
All programmes are safeguarding-led, inclusive, adaptable and delivered in collaboration with school or organisational staff.
Starting the Conversation
Schools, trusts, organisations and community groups are welcome to explore how music, DJing and creative participation could support their learners.
Get in touch
email: info@want2dj.co.uk
Student-Led Events & DJ Development
For some learners, DJing becomes more than a lesson.
As confidence and skills develop, learners may have opportunities to apply what they have learned through real-world projects, events and community activities.
Rather than simply watching someone else DJ, learners can explore roles such as:
• DJing and music selection
• event planning and preparation
• presenting and hosting
• audience engagement
• teamwork and collaboration
• equipment setup and organisation
These experiences help learners develop confidence, responsibility, communication skills and real-world experience in a safe and supported environment.
The focus is not simply on running an event, but on helping learners discover what they are capable of achieving when given the opportunity to participate, contribute and take ownership of their learning.
What children and teachers say about their school discos
2025 Feedback
"Everything went really well and the children absolutely loved the session. I asked a number of teachers for feedback and they all said it was fantastic."
The children also shared their thoughts after the event:
🎧 Get Inspired By Our Young Learners (Click on videos below)
Amelia started aged 11, first gig aged 12 shared a stage with DJ Trevor Nelson & Paloma Faith (2019)
DJ Esme started aged 8, first gig aged 9 and here performing at BPM Play Stage aged 15 (2021)
Niall started aged 15 enjoying creating mixes for his own enjoyment on USB media players. (2016)
⭐CREATE ⭐ PLAY ⭐ INSPIRE⭐
⭐ What People Say
Feedback from learners, parents, and professionals consistently highlights the same themes:
• calm, supportive sessions that don’t feel rushed
• clear, patient explanations that make DJing feel accessible
• confidence growing naturally — even for complete beginners
• learning shaped around the individual, not a fixed system
From Adult Learners
“I had zero experience and really no clue how to start. Michelle is patient, encouraging, and makes learning fun. I left feeling confident to try new ideas.”
“Very friendly, enthusiastic, and knowledgeable. Everything was explained in a way that felt comfortable and easy to follow.”
“The lesson was based around what I wanted. I learned so much and can’t wait for the next session.”
“Excellent service for anyone at any level. Learning was enjoyable, clear, and unpressured.”
“Really enjoyable first session. I learned more than I expected in just 90 minutes.”
From Parents & Carers
“I chose Want2DJ for my son, who was completely new to DJing and had just received some equipment. It was a perfect introduction — fun, enjoyable, and with the technical side explained in a way that really made sense. We’ll definitely be back.”
“My child absolutely loved it. He learned so much and is now asking for DJ equipment at home.”
From Professionals
“I’ve had the pleasure of collaborating with Michelle to support a young person with communication difficulties. Her sessions create a fun, engaging space where music becomes a natural way to build skills and confidence.
I’ve seen clear development in turn-taking, listening to cues, understanding what’s coming next, and making choices. Michelle adapts her approach exceptionally well, and her flexibility has made a real difference.
I would highly recommend her sessions — they’re not only enjoyable, but a powerful way to build confidence and essential life skills.”
— Professional collaborator / support worker
📺 Want to hear DJ sets from the academy?
Visit our Watch & Listen page.
Prefer to stay in touch for updates about DJ sessions, workshops, or events?
Join our mailing list.
⭐CREATE ⭐ PLAY ⭐ INSPIRE⭐