Yorkshire Youth and Music has opportunities for nine musicians to learn how to work with children and young people in challenging circumstances during 2025/26 until January 2026.

Our work is with young people who experience multiple disadvantage; they may be looked after, be in contact with Youth Justice services, be connected to a Pupil Referral Unit, have a social worker, have a disability, have an unstable family and personal background, and suffer economic disadvantage. In some cases they are in secure care.

We’re looking for a number of musicians to join us as part of this new programme. If you’re an early-career musician interested in developing your skills in creative, inclusive music-making and passionate about working with vulnerable young people - this could be the opportunity for you! We will be recruiting trainees throughout the year, until January 2026 when the programme ends.

What are we looking for?
Good musicians who are willing to be flexible and adaptable to turn their hand to anything. You can be an instrumentalist, singer or tech producer, but you have to be willing to pick up a bass guitar and help a young person learn to use it, if that’s what they want. You can be working in any genre of music, but you have to be prepared to try your hand at others with young people. You don’t have to be able to read music – but you have to understand it and be able to explain how musical structures work.

What commitment is required?
17 days or 85 hours, including
• 40 hours delivery alongside an expert music leader
• 8 hours 1:1 time with your mentor
• Attendance specific training events which we will agree with you
• For work in secure settings, additional training or vetting may be required

Will I be paid?
Yes. We can offer a fee of £20 per hour for the training period. If you wish to offer additional hours voluntarily this is up to you. There is no additional funding for travel or expenses.

For more information and to apply visit www.yym.org.uk/News/ace-grant-to-support-training