THE MUSIC & DANCE SCHEME (MDS) DCSF

“The aim of the scheme is to help identify, and assist, children with exceptional potential, regardless of their personal circumstances, to benefit from world-class specialist training as part of a broad and balanced education, which will enable them, if they choose, to proceed towards self-sustaining careers in music and dance.”

The MDS is funded by the Government Department for Children, Schools and Families. It provides financial support for almost 1600 pupils at nine specialist music and dance schools across the country, which includes the Royal Ballet School - a MDS designated “centre of excellence”.

The scheme enables pupils to receive the best training available to develop their talent, along with a good academic education, whatever their background may be.

Assistance is determined on a sliding scale depending on parental income. The lower parental income the greater contribution the Music and Dance Scheme provides.

No potential pupil or student should be discouraged by lack of financial means from making an application to The Royal Ballet School.

For further information on The Music and Dance Scheme go to the website of the Department for Children, Schools and Families at www.dcsf.gov.uk/mds/ and to www.made-schools.org.uk