Bursaries for Young People

We keep workshop fees as low as possible, but we know some young people may not be able to afford to attend. We have a limited number of bursaries for young people for whom personal and family circumstances mean they would otherwise be unable to attend . Anyone wishing to apply for a bursary must apply for the workshop in the normal way and in addition complete the separate bursary application form.

We can’t guarantee that everyone who applies for a bursary will be successful. Our funding is limited and there is competition, but we will try to help as many applicants as we can. Bursaries are normally for 50% of the fees however higher levels may be given in exceptional circumstances.

We do not wish to be unnecessarily intrusive but bursaries are awarded based on need, so we will have to ask for information about your circumstances, family income and expenditure (including tax credits and other benefits). Any supporting documents you are able to supply will help us reach a quicker and fairer decision. All information received will be treated in strictest confidence. 

We will try to make decisions on bursaries within two weeks of receiving the application, or keep you updated as to when a decision will be made and try to do that in good time before the  workshop. Any decision on bursaries awarded is final and there is no right of appeal.

To be eligible for a bursary you or your carers/household need to be in receipt of one of the following:

• In full or part-time education and eligible for Pupil Premium and/or Free School Meals.
• Young people in care,  recent care leavers or receiving benefits in their own right.
• Income Support, Universal Credit Working Families Tax Credit or equivalent credits.
• Receiving support from your school or music service for reduced music lesson fees.
• Families who may not be in the receipt of any of the above may also be eligible in exceptional circumstances. Please contact us on the details below.
• Young people not in education, employment or training age 16-18 receiving  state benefits in their own right or as family support.
• Receiving a disability allowance (PIP/ DSA)/ - Families where a parent/guardian is living with a long-term or serious health condition

Providing information

You will be asked to provide some additional information to support your application. These may include some of the following:

• A letter from your school ( confirming FSM or Pupil premium)
• A letter from your music service or school ( confirming music lesson support)
• Copies of documents  showing  government benefits, tax credits, income, proof of address.
• A reference - from a class teacher, head teacher, instrument teacher, social worker or support worker or other professional adult who knows the young person through education, care or music activity.

Not all of the above may be needed depending on circumstances and the amount of bursary.  If you have difficulty providing any of the evidence requested or have  any questions  please contact us at education@stables.org  for further advice.

Otherwise please download and complete the application form below and post or email it back to: Learning & Participation Dept, The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, Milton Keynes, MK17 8LU or email it to education@stables.org