Support for Young Musicians
There are many reasons why children may not be able to take part in lessons or activity. The Music Service has several support schemes and bursary options to help children and families in more challenging circumstances access provision.
FOSYM Awards
The Music Service works closely with local charity, ‘Friends of Staffordshire’s Young Musicians’ (FOSYM). Every year, FOSYM awards are made to pupils in need of financial support to continue with their musical learning. There is no means testing, awards are granted if the school and instrumental teacher are happy to support the application from the family.
You can find out more about FOSYM by visiting their website.
Supporting Talent
Our partnership with Young Sounds for the past decade has enabled places to be available through the Connect Programme each year for young musicians.
The Connect Programme is designed to help musical young people from low-income families from the moment the first sparks of potential appear. We support their instrumental learning far beyond initial state-funded lessons, so they can keep on playing music well into their teens and beyond. With Youth Music’s help we’re now supporting upwards of 500 young people across England.
You can find out more about Young Sounds and the Connect Programme by visiting the Young Sounds UK website Young Sounds Connect – Young Sounds
To apply for Support through the Connect Programme please contact us.
Children in Care
Working closely with the ‘Virtual School’ in Staffordshire, all children who are looked after or in care can access music lessons at no charge. Sessions can take place individually or as part of an established group depending on the preferences of the child, carer, and school.
You can read more about the Virtual School in Staffordshire here – About the Virtual School – Staffordshire County Council
OHMI
Our partnership with OHMI helps to support pupils with physical impairment to play musical instruments. OHMI’s objective is to remove the barriers to music-making so as to enable full and undifferentiated participation in musical life.
To find out more about OHMI please visit their website.
Further Support and Guidance
Beyond these three strands of support, the Music Service will always support any individual where additional need exists. If you are unsure how to access music lessons or need help finding the right support scheme, then please contact us.