Widening access

Conservatoires benefit immeasurably from encouraging both musical and cultural diversity, and so welcome a diverse population of staff, students and visiting artists from different communities and countries around the world. Conservatoires recognise that every student possesses a unique set of abilities and applications are encouraged from all musicians who meet the stated entry requirements. Relevant support is available to students with physical, learning or hidden disabilities on an individual and (if desired) confidential basis.xylophone

At the most fundamental level, conservatoires are committed to promoting equality in all activities, and all aim to provide performing, learning, teaching, working and research environments free from discrimination. Each conservatoire maintains its own Widening Access and Equal Opportunities policies. Visit the conservatoires' websites to view their policies.

Applying these principles within a broader context, conservatoires work actively to widen access to the performing arts and conservatoire education, in many cases working in partnership with education departments, schools, music services and community groups.

A key part of this work involves providing those who may not have had the opportunity to engage with the performing arts to do so, either by participating in workshops and events or by attending performances. Reflecting the importance of this work, many conservatoires have their own education and outreach programmes, whose work helps to promote the benefits and possibilities of a conservatoire education to the widest possible audience, and to encourage a more diverse applicant base.