Platform Theatre Arts believes that every young person should have the opportunity to participate in youth theatre regardless of financial circumstances. Our bursary programme helps remove financial barriers so that young people can access our youth theatre.

 

Thanks to funding we have received, we are able to offer a limited number of bursaries for a one-year period. These bursaries aim to support young people who may otherwise be unable to take part due to financial or personal circumstances.

​

Bursaries Available

Each term we offer:

• 5 × 100% bursaries (full fee support)

• 5 × 50% bursaries

• 5 × 25% bursaries

Bursaries apply to youth theatre participation fees only.

​

Funding Period

The bursary programme is funded for one year. Bursaries will be awarded on a termly basis, and families may reapply each term if support is still required.

​

Who Can Apply

Bursaries are open to:

• Current Platform Theatre Arts participants

• New young people wishing to join our youth theatre

​

Priority Criteria

(Applicants do not need to meet all of these criteria to apply.)

​

When reviewing applications, priority may be given to young people who meet one or more of the following circumstances:

• Families in receipt of Universal Credit

• Young people eligible for Free School Meals

• Young people who are young carers

• Young people who are in care or care-experienced

• Young people who consider themselves disabled or have additional needs

• Young people experiencing specific personal or family circumstances where access to creative activities would provide particular benefit.

​

Assessment Criteria

Applications will be assessed based on:

• Financial need

• The young person's enthusiasm and interest in theatre

• The potential benefit to the young person's confidence, wellbeing or development

• Commitment to attending sessions

• Supporting access for young people who may otherwise not have opportunities to participate in the arts

​

Application Process

Applicants must complete a bursary application form before the published deadline.

Applications will be reviewed by a small panel of Platform Theatre Arts staff or trustees.

Applicants may request a specific level of support (100%, 50%, or 25%), but the panel may offer a different level depending on demand and available funds.

​

Confidentiality

All bursary applications will be treated confidentially. Information provided will only be used to assess the application.

​

Expectations

Young people receiving bursaries are expected to:

• Attend sessions regularly

• Participate fully in rehearsals and performances

• Communicate with staff if they are unable to attend

​​

We understand that circumstances change and aim to approach this with flexibility and understanding.