Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama is ‘refocusing’ in promise to become more ‘diverse’

Approaching its 75th birthday in 2024, the school has launched a five-year plan and Promise initiative to become a ‘different kind’ of educational institution, supported by a ‘sustainable investment strategy’ that the college had previously put in place, and a £5 million fundraising campaign. 

The new initiative centres around providing opportunities to young people, regardless of their economic or social background. The institution has promised to double the number of scholarships on offer and will establish a new bursary, as well as increase routes into the arts for young people across Wales. 

Principal of RWCMD Helena Gaunt said: ‘Over the next five years, while excellence and performance will always remain at the heart of everything we do, we will become a different kind of conservatoire, one that is more relevant, diverse, accessible, connected and engaged. 

Through broader and deeper opportunities to engage in the arts, we promise to be part of the nation’s recovery from Covid-19 and to focus on long-term means of improving well-being and social inclusion and delivering economic impact for Wales.’

The school has said it is ‘refocusing’ training for young people under 18, supporting the new expressive arts curriculum in Wales and promoting the training of its own students to become teachers and mentors. Student touring in Wales will also be put at the forefront. 

Other ambitions include setting up a residency programme in Cardiff city centre, which would take over unused space for new courses, public performances and participation, particularly for school-age children, it said.

Gaunt encourages businesses in Wales to consider sponsoring productions or providing bursaries, as well as appealing for members of the public to donate.

www.rwcmd.ac.uk