Tearful kids hand their instruments back after music cuts

Critics blast ‘ middle class agenda’ on tuition fees

Hard- hearted council chiefs have refused to back down over cuts to free school music lessons.

Officials were told their “middle class agenda” would hurt the poorest pupils.

But despite tearful pleas from parents, councillors stood firm in their bid to save £ 46,000- per- year.

Former South Ayrshire l e g a l c h i e f, Ralph Riddiough, presented a petition to former colleagues last Wednesday boasting thousands of names.

Classical star Nicola Benedetti is among those to support the view that charging parents up to £ 200 for instrumental tuition is “prejudiced”.

Mr Riddiough said: “The council’s money is tight but this is about principles.

“Children should not be made to pay in state schools.

“Life is not fair but school is where they are entitled to equality.

“This is a middle class agenda with a middle class solution.”

Euan Terras, chair of Prestwick Academy’s parent council, claimed 24 per cent of pupils receiving tuition had “handed back” instruments since charges were introduced.

“You cannot tell me that is coincidence,” he said.

“I have heard cases of pupils in tears handing back those instruments.

“They could be talented but are not being given the chance to achieve.

“There is a stigma attached to saying you cannot afford anything and many parents will find themselves in this position.”

Council bosses were asked why they were shaving £ 46,000 from the music budget when a whopping £ 10.9million lies unspent in the coffers.

Education boss, Douglas Hutchison, admitted: “All cuts will have a detrimental impact on someone.”

And Mr Hutchison challenged the idea that huge numbers had dropped out, insisting the figure was much nearer 12 per cent.

Mum Alison Osborne, who broke down in tears in front of councillors, said: “This money is not a drop in the ocean to people.

“To some it could be a month’s rent for children at university.

“It is important to a lot of people in this community.”

The council’s schools spokesman William Grant – who arrived late to the meeting after a dentist appointment – said he “totally supported music tuition”.

He added: “Consultation took place here and letters were sent to parents.

“We are continuing to carry out our statutory requirements.”

But councillors insisted they would not be prepared to reverse the decision.

Labour councillor, Ian Cavana, said: “As a councillor in one of the more deprived areas, I do have worries about this.

“But I would find it hard to take action given the figures put forward to us by officers.”