Tiered Fees: Support That Matches Your Circumstances

This year marks the first time NYPBS is introducing participation fees. It’s a necessary step to help ensure the long-term sustainability of the programme—but just as importantly, it reflects a shift in how we support our community: from equality to equity.

In the past, everyone contributed the same. Now, we recognise that not everyone starts from the same place. Our tiered fees system is designed to reflect individual financial circumstances, so support goes where it’s needed most.

Thanks to generous funding from Creative Scotland, every place in NYPBS is already subsidised. This means all participants benefit from reduced costs, and we’re able to offer real value—through high-quality tuition, creative workshops, and major national performance opportunities. That funding also helps us build the financial resilience we need to keep NYPBS strong, stable, and accessible for future generations.

Free Places

You may be eligible for a fully funded place if your total household income before tax is £25,000 or less, or if you are:

  • In foster care or under the care of a local authority

  • Receiving Universal Credit, Income Support, or Income-based Job Seeker’s Allowance

  • Receiving Income-based Employment and Support Allowance

  • Supported under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999

  • A recipient of the Young Carer Grant

  • Receiving Child Tax Credit (but not Working Tax Credit) with a household income below £16,105

  • Receiving both Child Tax Credit and Working Tax Credit, with a household income up to £7,500

Reduced Fees

If your total household income before tax is £55,000 or less, you may qualify for a reduced fee:

  • £25,000–£35,000: 80% bursary

  • £35,000–£45,000: 60% bursary

  • £45,000–£55,000: 30% bursary

No One Left Behind

We know this is a new model, and everyone’s circumstances are different. If you're unsure where you fit or need support, don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re here to help.

Our goal is simple: to make sure that every young piper and drummer with the passion and potential to take part in NYPBS can do so, regardless of financial background.