BIMM University launch The IDLES Future Talent Scholarship

We’re excited to announce that we’ve partnered with rock legends IDLES for a brand-new scholarship.

IDLES, formed in Bristol in 2009 and is comprised of five members: Adam Devonshire, Joe Talbot, Mark Bowen, BIMM Music Institute Bristol lecturer Lee Kiernan on guitar and graduate Jon Beavis on drums. After spending eight years honing their live performances, IDLES released their debut album, Brutalism, in 2017. Since then, the group have released four albums, each one receiving critical acclaim. Now GRAMMY-nominated and multi-award-winning, the band have proven to be hugely influential in the punk rock world. We are truly honoured that they are joining us to launch this scholarship at BIMM University.

“We’re thrilled to be a part of this scholarship. Music has given us so much, and being able to help someone pursue their passion in music is incredibly rewarding. A degree can open the doors to creativity and self-expression, and can be the start of a lifetime in music. We hope this scholarship allows someone to truly focus on honing their craft. Investing in the next generation of artists is important.”

Jon Beavis, IDLES

Applicable to students starting their course in September 2024, The IDLES Future Talent Scholarship will provide full three-year tuition fees for a candidate who is from a low-income household and/or a group that is under-represented in higher education. The scholarship is designed to assist individuals who demonstrate talent in their chosen discipline, strong creative potential, and a desire to pursue a career in the creative industries.

The scholarship will support eligible undergraduate students across all our music courses at BIMM Music Institute Bristol.

“BIMM are honored to partner with IDLES, artists that speak to and for Bristol’s social conscience. Our scholarship aims to foster creativity and promote access for under-represented groups. In doing so, it will transform one talented student’s chances to build a career in music.”

David Rowe, Pro Vice Chancellor for Music, BIMM University

We understand that studying at university can be financially challenging, so in order to help you achieve your goals, we offer a number of scholarships and bursaries.

Who can apply

You can apply for The IDLES Future Talent Scholarship if you meet all the following criteria:

• You are applying for undergraduate degree at BIMM Music Institute Bristol that starts in September 2024
• You are a UK national with a home fee status
• You are from a low-income household* and/or an under-represented group in higher education. This includes:
• Students from a global majority background
• Students who have experience in care or are estranged
• Mature students
• Students who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community or are from a gender-diverse background
• Disabled students

* Student Finance England (SFE) offers a full maintenance grant to students with a household income of £25,000 or less.

How to apply

First, you must apply for an undergraduate degree course at BIMM Music Institute Bristol starting in September 2024. Once you have applied, you will be sent a scholarship application form.

The IDLES Future Talent Scholarship applications close on 28th June 2024. Scholarships will only be awarded to those who go on to accept an offer from BIMM Music Institute Bristol and complete the enrolment process.

What happens next

A panel will assess your application, and we will contact you as soon as possible regarding the outcome.

As this is a competitive process and there are a limited number of scholarships available, we strongly recommend that all applicants follow the usual processes to secure student funding. Where appropriate, successful applicants will be able to amend or cancel their request for financial support from Student Finance England once their scholarship has been awarded.

Applying to The IDLES Future Talent Scholarship will not exclude you from accessing university hardship funds or The Fair Access Fund.

If you have any questions, please email us at [email protected]

Cover image by Aris Chatman