Charges, remissions and subsidy policy 2023-2024

Introduction

A key objective of the Music Education Hub grant provided by the DfE is to assist in the removal of barriers to learning and making progress for young musicians. As such, this policy has been created to help support engagement and progress in music across a range of activities delivered by the hub lead organisation, Shropshire Music Service. 

Ensemble activities

To support children and young people with their ensemble skills, foster collaborative learning, and promote positive mental health and well-being all weekly ensemble activities are fully subsidised. These are delivered at a range of locations across the county to promote easy access. All ensemble activities are structured to support continuation and musical progress, in addition to supporting schools in delivery of their music development plan.

Instrumental and vocal tuition

We deliver instrumental and vocal tuition in schools and at our music centre. Tuition of this nature is predominantly parent-billed, but school-billed can also be arranged upon request through the SLA process. Schools can charge parents for a contribution but cannot make a surplus on those charges. Schools also receive funding that acknowledges their pupil intake and can make their own judgements on whether to subsidise activities. 

Shropshire Music Service currently offer the following subsidies:

• 50% up to a maximum of £50.00 per term, plus a free instrument, for those in receipt of Free School Meals
  
• 25% up to a maximum of £25.00 per term, plus a free instrument, for low-income families.

Full criteria can be found on our application for instrumental lessons form.

School activities

We deliver a range of activities in schools including curriculum, whole class ensemble tuition, and school ensembles. Our schools’ brochure outlines all related charges (where applicable). Schools know their pupils best and a range of options provides music leads and headteachers with the ability to structure a programme of activity which supports their music development plan. On receipt of an order form, a service level agreement will be provided detailing costs and delivery for the full academic year, outlining billing information.

The following school-related activities are subsidised in full:

• Curriculum audit
• Technology audits
• Audition preparation sessions
• Teacher Network CPD
  

Instrumental loan

Shropshire Music Service provides instruments for a range of purposes. If required, all instruments for first delivery of whole class ensemble tuition are provided free of charge. 

Pupils in receipt of instrumental tuition at a subsidised rate receive an instrument free of charge. Pupils in receipt of instrumental tuition at full cost or enrolled in an ensemble can hire an instrument from Shropshire Music Service who will subsidise 65% of the cost. 

Instruments are maintained and insured against accidental damage and loss, but parents are expected to agree to terms and conditions relating to proper use.

VAT relief on instruments

As a local authority service, Shropshire Music Service benefits from the Assisted Purchase Instrument Scheme. This offers parents the opportunity to purchase an instrument without paying 20% VAT. The Music Service handle all administration relating to this purchase. Further details can be obtained from 
admin@shropshiremusicservice.org.uk

Virtual School

Shropshire Virtual School awards 100% remission for all looked-after children engaging with weekly instrumental tuition. Additional workshop activities are also fully subsidised by the Virtual School.

Pupil Premium

We work in partnership with schools to allow students to access pupil premium funding to subsidise their instrumental tuition. Schools may choose to cover either the remaining balance or full cost, after the Shropshire Music Service subsidy has been applied.

Early years

Initial five-week delivery packages are fully subsidised by the local authority. Subsequent packages can be purchased by EYFS providers. 

Examinations

Shropshire Music Service act as an examination centre for both Trinity College London and ABRSM on a termly basis. Shropshire based students can apply to take an exam at our centre in Shrewsbury. Shropshire Music Service students can access a subsidised accompanist for the duration of the exam at a rate of £8.50. 

Workshops, events, residentials, and concerts

Shropshire Music Service works with local community partners to endeavour to reduce or remove costs of workshops and events. Where costs are passed to parents and families, affordable payment plan options are available. Assistance with costs is available to those experiencing financial hardship: funding to support this endeavour is raised with the support of SYMPHO. Applications for support are managed confidentially by the Head of Shropshire Music Service and the Chair of SYMPHO.

Review and changes to this policy

All charges are subject to annual review. All changes are only made where necessary. Any questions or concerns regarding this policy should be sent to admin@shropshiremusicservice.org.uk