Over 1,000 local school pupils have been provided with 100% subsidised transport to see theatre shows thanks to the partnership between Mayflower and Xelabus.
Since Mayflower launched their new Transport Subsidy Scheme in partnership with Xelabus in January, over 1,000 students have been able to experience live theatre, many for the first time. The subsidy scheme helps to fulfil Mayflower’s aim that every person has the right to attend live theatre and experience the joy and opportunity this can bring. The Transport Subsidy Scheme supports schools as well as community groups funding their transport to both Mayflower venues. In 2023, UK Theatre’s Theatre for Every Child campaign was introduced to amplify national voice about the importance of theatre visits for schools and the subsidy scheme is just one way in which Mayflower supports this national campaign.
Mayflower recognises that for many schools, lack of finances acts as a barrier to children attending live theatre and already have schemes in place to help the most disadvantaged schools. Nationwide, whilst schools may be able to afford the discounted ticket prices, they cannot afford the transportation costs to get to the venues. These costs are usually redirected to parents, and result in many disadvantaged children not being able to participate, which results in schools deciding not to commit.
A recent report from the Sutton Trust states that since last year “reports of cuts to trips and outings have more than doubled, now standing at 50%, up from 21% – a proportion that is even higher in schools with the most disadvantaged intakes, at 68%, compared to 44% in the least deprived schools”
The Transport Subsidy Scheme was created to alleviate some of the financial pressures that schools and community groups face to enable more people to attend theatre and experience live arts. The subsidy covers 100% of the transport costs. It is awarded on an application basis to schools that meet the following criteria:
- A state-funded primary, secondary school, or further education college.
- Above 15% Free School Meal percentage of a given year or located in a designated Levelling Up for Culture Place.
- Can demonstrate how the theatre trip will benefit their school.
- Are applying for a show that is not already discounted lower than the school rate.
A school can be funded a maximum of twice per academic year. Schools that are interested in applying should email participation@mayflower.org.uk
Mayflower recognises that many community groups also face similar barriers to accessing live theatre and also offers the Transport Subsidy Scheme to community groups that they already engage with through their participation department. This falls under one of Mayflower’s guiding principles to create an inspired, valued and connected community.
Since launching the Transport Subsidy Scheme at the beginning of this year, Mayflower has had 1,042 young people from 19 different schools attend, of which 58% were first time theatre goers, and the feedback has been positive with comments including:
“It was lovely to see children who are often disengaged at school, be so excited about the whole experience. Their laughter, the smiles on their faces and the questions throughout, showed their engagement in the production.”
“The trip had an amazing impact on a child with additional needs who had never been to the theatre before. She was so excited and in awe through the whole show. Despite her having speech and language difficulties, she was able to talk animatedly about her favourite part of the show the next day which was a great achievement for her.”
Michael Ockwell, Chief Executive of Mayflower, said “Reaching over 1,000 students in just the first year of our Transport Subsidy Scheme is a milestone we are immensely proud of. Our mission is to ensure that as many people in our community as possible can enjoy the transformative power of live theatre, and this partnership with Xelabus helps us remove one of the biggest barriers – the cost of travel. As a charity, it is vital for us to make theatre accessible to all, and this scheme is already making a tangible difference.”
Partick O’Sullivan, Head of Participation at Mayflower, said “It is inspiring to see more than 1,000 young people benefit from this scheme already, many experiencing live theatre for the very first time. For too long, the cost of coach hire has prevented schools and community groups from attending, but our work with Xelabus means those barriers are being lifted. This milestone shows what’s possible when we work together to ensure that live arts are open to everyone.”
Phil Blair, Commercial Manager of Xela Group, said “Over 1,000 students have now travelled with the support of this scheme – that’s over 1,000 opportunities to be inspired by live theatre. At Xelabus, we’re proud to be a part of this journey with Mayflower, helping schools and community groups access experiences that will stay with them for years. Seeing Mayflower’s-themed bus out in the community not only raises awareness of the scheme but also celebrates the rich programme of shows on offer across both venues.”
The Transport Subsidy Scheme is provided in partnership with Xelabus, which is one of the longest running independent passenger transport providers within Hampshire, with over 15 years’ experience.
