Call for music tuition in schools to be free for all
Across Scotland, pupils pay almost £3 million to councils each year for music lessons, according to figures obtained by teaching union the Educational Institue for Scotland.
In a debate at Holyrood, Education Secretary Mike Russell said fees for musical instrument tuition in schools were “undesirable” but difficult to avoid during a squeeze on public finances.
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Hide AdMs Johnstone said: “The teaching of music should be free to all students, allowing them to achieve their full potential, regardless of financial circumstances.”
Edinburgh, East Lothian and West Lothian councils do not charge for music tuition. Midlothian charges £150 a year, but pupils receiving free school meals or clothing grants are exempt.