Date of 2027 Course

Sunday 1st August – Sunday 8th August 2027

Opening Date for Applications

Applications for the 2027 course will open in September.

Closing Date for Applications

9am on Sunday 29th November 2026 . (Please note that we are very strict about this time and date). However any instruments that we still have spaces available for will stay open until we have sufficient instruments. Applications received after the closing date will be considered in date order.

Course Attendance

Please note that the course starts at 2pm on Sunday 1st August. Members can arrive on site from 12.30pm to allow time to settle in. All new members start with an introductory session at 2pm, followed by ice-breaker activities for everyone at 2.30pm.

Please be aware that late arrival is only permitted in limited circumstances, but you must always be on site in time for the first rehearsal at 6pm. New members must not arrive any later than 2pm under any circumstances, so please be aware of this when you apply. If you are a returning member you need permission prior to offer if you need to be late. This are considered on a case by case basis. Please email Jill Bowman directly or email [email protected] before you apply if this is the case.

Notification of Applications

You will be informed during December 2026 if you have been successful or not with your application,

A deposit of £95 is required to secure your place if you are successful.

Cost for 2027 Course

£TBC This is inclusive of all food and accommodation, tuition, music, social activities and transport during the course.

Location

The course is based at Old Swinford Hospital Boarding School in Stourbridge. We can pick you up from Stourbridge Junction Station

Concerts

Concerts will be held in the West Midlands area on Friday 6th August and Saturday 7th August.

Family and friends are encouraged to attend all concerts.

Minimum Music Standards

Grade 5 for the Symphony Orchestra and grade 5 for the Concert Band (with very occasional differences – see instruments page) However sometimes after the closing date higher grades are stated by required instruments.

Ages

You must be between the ages of 13-25 by 31st August 2027 to apply. Applicants between the ages of 26-30 may be considered in the event that a section is undersubscribed.

Scout or Guide

You must be a member of the UK Scout Association or Girlguiding. If you are a student and suddenly find yourself living in different parts of the country to where you have been a member, there are a number of options available to you to stay involved. Speak to your current leader, a new local group, unit or Network, or still attend your previous group when you are at home during the holidays. Being a member only of SSAGO does not qualify you to attend. Please contact us to discuss if required.

Uniform and Clothing

You must provide your own smart uniform. You play in uniform for the concerts.

Scouts: Uniform shirt for your section navy trousers or skirt (not black)

Guides – formal uniform:

  • Leaders Over 18 – Pale blue uniform blouse with pink inner collar with navy trousers or skirt (not black)
  • Young Leaders and Inspire – Pale blue uniform blouse with grey inner collar with navy trousers or skirt (not black)
  • Rangers – Pale blue uniform blouse with aqua inner collar with navy trousers or skirt (not black)
  • Guides: Royal blue/red uniform polo shirt with navy trousers or skirt (not black)
  • Badge tabs can be worn if they don’t interfere with playing your instrument.

Everyone: Smart black shoes

You are provided with either an NSGSO (blue and white) necker or NSGCB (grape and white) necker and also a polo top if this is your first course. You will be asked your size after you have been accepted onto the course.

Questions

See the FAQ page, or for specific help email [email protected] and a leader will email or phone to discuss your query.

Date of 2028 Course

30th July – 6th August