Question to the Department for Education:

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, what assessment she has made of the long-term sustainability of specialist schools arising from future plans for the Music and Dance Scheme.

The government has committed £37.8 million in the 2026/27 academic year for the Music and Dance Scheme.

The department recognises the financial pressures facing some providers. The £1.3 million increase for the 2026/27 academic year builds on the additional funding provided in 2025/26. This additional investment reflects the government’s continued commitment to maintaining access for students from lower income households.

The intention remains to confirm funding for the 2027/28 academic year before the end of this calendar year. Future funding from the 2028/29 academic year onwards will be subject to the forthcoming Spending Review.