The ethos of the School is that any young person offered a place should be able to benefit from this opportunity, irrespective of their family’s financial circumstances. Some of these children receive financial assistance under the Government’s Music and Dance Scheme (MDS) but unfortunately the demand for MDS-aided places outstrips the limited number available. Therefore the School offers means-tested bursaries to ensure that those in need of financial support are able to attend.

We are reliant on support from private individuals, charitable bodies and corporate giving to maintain a sustainable Bursary Fund, aiming to raise over £500,000 a year. However, whilst the School is fortunate in receiving a raft of support, demand for bursary funding is such that, each year, the School is forced to turn away three talented young musicians due to a lack of funds.