Date of 2023 Course

Sunday 30 July – Sunday 6th August 2023

Opening Date for Applications

Please watch this website and social media for further information. Applications will open mid September 2022.

Closing Date for Applications

9AM on Sunday 11th December 2022. (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.

Notification of Applications

You will be informed by 31 December 2022 if you have been successful or not with your application.

Cost for 2023 Course

£580 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 Birmingham Airport or Stourbridge Junction Station

Concerts

Concerts are usually held in venues in Birmingham. In 2023 some concerts will be at the Ruddock Hall

Family and friends are encouraged to attend all concerts.

Minimum Music Standards

Grade 5 for the Symphony Orchestra and grade 4 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 12-25 by 31st August 2023 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 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 or alternatively you could join SSAGO, a new local group, unit or Network, or still attend your previous group when you are at home during the holidays. Please contact us to discuss if required.

Uniform

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)

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.

Interested in applying? Fill in the form here

Questions See the FAQ page, or for specific help email [email protected] and one of us will email or phone to discuss

Date of 2024 Course

Sunday 28th July- Sunday 4th August 2024