Question to the Department for Education:

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, if her Department will take steps to increase funding of post-16 performing arts education and training.

We believe that post-16 education plays a crucial role in helping young people realise their potential. That’s why we announced as part of the Spending Review that we will protect the national base rate of £4,000 per student for the duration of the parliament. In addition vocational performing arts programmes receive a 20% uplift reflecting the extra costs of delivering these courses.

The government also remains committed to supporting talented students through the Dance and Drama Awards scheme. Around 1,300 young people and adults each year receive financial help through the scheme to gain high level vocational training in dance, drama and musical theatre.

In addition, the Department for Education provides means-tested support through the Music and Dance Scheme to ensure that talented children from all backgrounds are able to receive the world-class training they need to succeed in careers in music and dance.