At a time when pursuing a career in the arts can seem financially daunting, The Mayflower Higher Education Bursary Scheme offers vital support to young individuals aiming to develop their talent within the creative industries. Whether you dream of becoming a performer, technician, or arts administrator, this scheme is designed to help bridge the financial gap and provide access to the necessary education and training.
This bursary is not just about funding; it’s about supporting passion and dedication. Mayflower recognises the challenges faced by young people today and is committed to giving back to the local community through this initiative. For individuals between 16 and 25 years old who live in Hampshire and are passionate about building a future in the arts, this bursary is a lifeline. In particular, it prioritises those attending courses or auditions run by members of the Federation of Drama Schools (FDS) or the Council for Dance, Drama & Musical Theatre (CDMT), as well as individuals facing financial difficulties or those who have shown exceptional dedication to their craft.
Bursary options available
The Mayflower Higher Education Bursary Scheme provides two primary forms of support:
Higher Education Tuition Fee Grant
This grant offers up to £3,000 to assist with tuition fees at an educational institution. The fund is open from August to October, and applications are welcome from those who have secured a place at a recognised higher education institution.
Support Grants
Support Grants provide up to £500 to help cover ongoing costs associated with studying, such as purchasing equipment, books, or covering audition fees and travel costs. This grant is available throughout the year and applications are assessed on a monthly basis.
Support Grants are designed to assist those who may need extra financial support during their studies or while auditioning for various courses. This grant helps cover some of the hidden costs associated with pursuing a career in the arts, such as purchasing equipment essential for creative practice or travelling to important auditions.
Courses supported by the scheme
While the bursary scheme supports a range of university courses, priority is given to students attending courses offered by members of the Federation of Drama Schools (FDS) or the Council for Dance, Drama & Musical Theatre (CDMT). These institutions are recognised for their high standards of training in performing arts, ensuring students receive the best possible education to prepare for their future careers.
Whether you are applying for a one-year training programme or continuing your education in the second or third year of a course, you are eligible to apply. For a comprehensive list of supported institutions, you can refer to the websites of the Federation of Drama Schools and the Council for Dance, Drama & Musical Theatre.
Additional awards
In addition to the standard Tuition Fee Grant of £3,000, there are several additional awards that may be offered at the discretion of Mayflower, including:
- The Edward, Lord Montagu Award: Up to £9,000
- The Isobel Gatward Award: Up to £6,000
- The Off Stage Award: Up to £6,000
- The Malcolm Le Bas Award: Up to £6,000
Awards are made directly to the education provider to cover the cost of student fees.
Why the bursary scheme matters
The arts are a vital part of culture and community, and investing in young people’s artistic education is an investment in the future. Many students face financial barriers that prevent them from accessing the training they need to succeed in this competitive industry. The Mayflower Higher Education Bursary Scheme not only acknowledges these challenges but actively works to remove them.
By prioritising students from lower-income households, the scheme ensures that talented individuals are not held back by financial constraints. Whether it’s helping with tuition fees, audition costs, or the day-to-day expenses of arts education, the bursary provides a platform for young people to thrive.
Additionally, the emphasis on supporting those attending courses accredited by the Federation of Drama Schools and the Council for Dance, Drama & Musical Theatre ensures that recipients are accessing high-quality education and training.
Applications for the Mayflower Higher Education Tuition Fee Grant are currently open for the 2024/25 academic year and will close on 25 October 2024. This grant is aimed at students who have already secured a place at a recognised institution and need financial assistance to cover part of their tuition fees.
Applications for the Mayflower Support Grant are open year-round and assessed at the end of each calendar month. This flexibility allows students to apply when they need support most, whether they are facing unexpected costs or preparing for important auditions.
The Mayflower Higher Education Bursary Scheme is more than just a funding opportunity; it’s a commitment to nurturing the next generation of artists, performers, technicians, and arts administrators. The scheme ensures that no young person’s ambition is limited by financial constraints, enabling local talent to flourish in the creative industries.
By providing both the Tuition Fee Grant and the Support Grant, the scheme offers comprehensive assistance tailored to the specific needs of students in Hampshire. Whether you are starting your journey in higher education or in need of support during the course of your studies, Mayflower is here to help you achieve your artistic goals.
Don’t let financial barriers stand in the way of your dreams – apply now and take the next step towards a successful career in the arts.
Mayflower Theatre’s Higher Education Bursary Scheme awards £36,500 to nine local rising stars
Our Higher Education Bursary Scheme is open to individuals between the ages of 18 – 25 who reside in Hampshire. Support is prioritised to those who are either attending a degree course or audition run by a member of The Federation of Drama and Dance Schools; experiencing financial or other hardship or who demonstrate outstanding commitment and achievement in their art form.