Centre for Young Musicians Primary Years Programme
This progressive four-year programme is the perfect introduction to music for children entering the centre in school year 1.
Key information:
- Course dates:
- Saturday term time
- Course times:
- 9:00am-4:30pm (dependant on year group)
- Age:
- School Y1-4 (age 5-9) - must be school year 1 at the time of joining
- Art form:
- Music
- Fees:
- Fees for 2025/26 will be confirmed in Spring 2025
- Deadline:
- 2 March 2026
- Level of study:
- Short Courses & Summer Schools, Workshops & Saturday Centres (under 18)
- Mode of study:
- Saturday Courses
- Venue:
- Notre Dame RC Girls’ School, SE1 6EX
- When:
- Saturdays
- Contact details:
- emma.faherty@gsmd.ac.uk
About the Primary Years Programme
This progressive four-year programme provides the perfect introduction to music-making for children joining the centre in school year 1.
At the core of the programme are group musicianship classes, which provide the foundation for every child’s musical journey and build progressively each year. In their first year, children take part in a full year of musicianship training before choosing an instrument to study in future years. In Years 2-4, children attend a variety of classes, including instrumental lessons and ensembles, bringing together musicianship and performance as they move through the programme.
CYM provides a supportive and nurturing environment where all children can explore and express themselves, developing communication, creativity, and confidence.
On completing the Primary Years Programme, students will be able to progress to the centre’s Full Programme, subject to satisfactory progress.
Year 1
A rich year of musicianship training, where children attend two complementary 30-minute classes each week. In small groups, they develop foundational musical skills that prepare them for a lifelong love of joyful music-making and future instrumental learning.
Classes are fun and supportive, using games and creative activities to spark imagination, nurture confidence, and encourage self-expression. Children learn through singing and movement, following a carefully sequenced approach led by experienced tutors who are passionate about working with this age group.
Towards the end of the year, children are supported in selecting an instrumental pathway for Year 2 through engaging demonstrations and live workshops.
Years 2-4
Children continue with weekly musicianship classes, building on the foundations established in Year 1 and complementing their instrumental learning. They also have lessons with specialist instrumental tutors who focus on developing a strong technical foundation and instrument-specific skills.
Children also participate in an ensemble, coming together to make music collaboratively, developing teamwork and communication skills, and preparing for informal performances and an annual concert. Throughout the programme, children build friendships, grow in confidence, and strengthen their ability to express themselves both musically and personally, laying strong foundations for the years ahead.
Students in Years 2-4 currently choose to follow a wind, strings, or guitar pathway.
No experience is required to join our Primary Years Programme. Students must be in school Year 1 in the September of entry.
Number of Places
There are a limited number of places available on the Primary Years Programme each year. We aim to provide a welcoming environment that supports all children in their musical education.
Selection Process
Where applications exceed available places, a random selection ("out of the hat") will be used.
Waiting List
We will keep a waiting list running until the autumn half-term in case any spaces become available. These will also be chosen using random selection.
Fees
Fees for 2026/27 can be found here. Fees for 2027/28 will be confirmed in Spring 2027
Payment schedule
For our Saturday Centre courses we ask you to pay termly or by 10 monthly standing order instalments. Pleaser refer to the Parent/Carer agreement for details of the notice period.
Bursaries
GYA Bursaries, provided by the two associated registered charities, are primarily for students enrolled on the Full Programme. They are means tested and can be applied for if your household income falls under £50,000. Some bursaries are also available for other programmes.
Autumn Term Dates 2026
Saturday 12 September - Activities and Induction Day
Saturday 19 September - First Teaching Day
Saturday 26 September
Saturday 3 October
Saturday 10 October
Saturday 17 October
Half-term (no session on 24 & 31 October )
Saturday 7 November
Saturday 14 November
Saturday 21 November
Saturday 28 November
Saturday 5 December
Spring Term Dates 2027
Saturday 9 January
Saturday 16 January
Saturday 23 January
Saturday 30 January
Saturday 6 February
Saturday 13 February
Half-term (no session on 20 February)
Saturday 27 February
Saturday 6 March
Saturday 13 March
Saturday 20 March
Sunday 21 March - Annual Concert
Summer Term Dates 2027
Saturday 17 April
Saturday 24 April
Saturday 1 May
Saturday 8 May
Saturday 15 May
Saturday 22 May
Half-term (no session on 29 May & 5 June)
Saturday 12 June
Saturday 19 June
Saturday 26 June
Saturday 3 July
We regret it is not possible to give refunds in the event of absence as the Centre has to continue paying professional tutors and overheads. CYM expects as close to 100% attendance as possible, to ensure you get the most out of your studies.
Pleaser refer to the Parent/Carer agreement for details of the notice period.
Keep up to date with our news and stories
Join our mailing list
