Cardiff: Royal Welsh College plans to cut youth services

Sayan, whose daughter Rini attends the college every week, said the cuts would stop a generation of children being inspired and were a “major blow to Wales”.

She said pupils at her daughter’s school did not have access to a lot of instruments and the college allowed Rini to try out different ones.

“When she’s at the college she is seeing other people playing instruments, she’s seeing different kinds of instruments, and at that age she’s inspired, and that’s what you want from an institution.”

The college said it recognised the concern the announcement would cause for staff, students and parents.

It said it was “very conscious” of the need to make some difficult decisions, to ensure that it is “ready to meet the challenges of the coming years”.

“We recognise that we have a responsibility to offer vibrant experiences into professional training that reach young people from diverse backgrounds.

“Not just from the Cardiff area but throughout Wales, and to embrace the Welsh language.”

The Welsh government said it “fully recognises” the financial pressure higher education institutions in Wales are under.

“We also recognise the value and importance of music education.

“Our £13m National Music Service gives every three to 16-year-old the opportunity to play a musical instrument, sing, and make music.

“The Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama remains a key partner in the delivery of the National Plan for Music Education, in particular providing learners with opportunities to progress in playing a musical instrument or singing.”