Our Tuition
The two main strands of our tuition offer are First Access (Whole Class Ensemble Teaching), and Individual/Small Group Tuition.
First Access
First Access is a cornerstone of the government’s National Plan for Music Education, designed to introduce pupils at Key Stages 1 to 3 to instrumental learning through weekly, whole-class music lessons. Plymouth Youth Music Service (PYMS) supports the delivery of First Access in primary and junior schools in Plymouth, offering a comprehensive range of high-quality, diverse 15-hour courses.
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Each course includes built-in planning and Continuing Professional Development (CPD) for staff. Schools can choose which year group within Key Stage 2 will participate in the First Access programme, with each class in the chosen year entitled to two 15-hour courses per academic year.
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An annual contribution of £720 per year (instruments hire included), representing just 30% of the actual delivery cost, with the remaining 70% covered by direct investment from the Department for Education.
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New for the 2025-26 Academic Year
Schools receiving first access will now also receive complimentary specialist support, including music curriculum advice, co-curricular music guidance, + 1 free training for both music specialists and classroom teachers – a valuable benefit typically priced at £300 for a full day, now included at no extra charge.

Individual & Small Group Tuition

Learning to play a musical instrument is a valuable skill that can spark a lifelong passion. Plymouth Youth Music Service (PYMS) provides experienced tutors to deliver lessons across the city.
Lessons can be arranged for individuals or small groups of up to four students. We recommend sessions lasting 20 to 30 minutes, tailored to the age and ability of the learners.
Individual and small group tuition is available for a minimum of one hour per week.
For the 2025/26 academic year, the cost has been reduced to just £30 per hour, with the remaining amount subsidised by the music service. In most cases, this fee also covers the provision of instruments.
Children eligible for free school meals are entitled to further reduced rates, ensuring access for all. Please do get in touch for more information.
We offer tuition in a wide range of instruments, including:
Brass, Woodwind, Strings, Percussion (Drum Kit) Voice (Singing)
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We have also introduced DJ Skills as part of our ISG offer due to pupils demand.