south west music school
South West Music School is a charity working with talented young
instrumentalists, singers and composers aged 8 – 19 years in the South West of
England. Due to the geographical nature of the South West, we are not building
based but are a ‘virtual’ school working with young people on an individual
basis in their local area. In addition, our students come together on a regular
basis to collaborate, create, learn new skills and perform together. South West
Music School is part of a national network of Centres of Advanced Training
supported by the Department for Education Music and Dance Scheme for
exceptionally talented young musicians. Funding provided by the DfE can ensure
that each student has adequate resources to undertake involvement with SWMS and
that all costs are met according to need (there is an optional section within
our application form to help us determine your grant eligibility). South West
Music School (SWMS) provides students with the same standard of music education
as specialist music schools and junior conservatoires. The additional benefit of
SWMS is that it allows students to stay in their existing education and continue
to take part in other current musical (and non-musical) activities in their
local communities. South West Music School covers each county in the South West
region: Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, Somerset, Bristol, Gloucestershire, BaNES and
Wiltshire. How much does it cost? The cost of a place at SWMS depends on the
specific programme and tailored package of activities provided for each student.
We work with families to ensure we place students on the right programme and
with the right level of support for ability level, age, musical interest, and
budget. SWMS students have access to means-tested grants from the Department of
Education’s Music & Dance Scheme. A full grant will cover the entire costs of a
place with South West Music School, as well as providing additional financial
support for activities such as instrumental tuition. For more information about
our fees, and applying for a grant, click here. How can I apply? We have a
formal application process from March through to the end of May, however if you
are interested in joining SWMS during an academic year please get in touch with
Tracy Hill t.hill@swms.org.uk. All information on the application process can be
found on our How to Apply page.
