What is the Assisted Instrument Purchase Scheme ?
The Assisted Instrument Purchase Scheme enables pupils at Local Education Authority Schools, who receive musical tuition as part of their curriculum, to purchase instruments without paying VAT. Coupled with discounted prices, this can lead to large savings on most student instruments.This procedure has the approval of H.M. Customs & Excise and was reviewed in September 1994 by the VAT Office. We have many years of experience in the repair of instruments, and offer a complete sales and back up service, not always available with other suppliers.

What is the choice ?
You have a huge choice of quality, new, workshop tested instruments of all Woodwind and Brass types, and, if required, all the independent advice you could possible need from experienced players and technicians.

How the Scheme works
The majority of counties have found that the scheme works most effectively if the school orders direct. The school officially orders the instrument, once selected by the parent, teacher and/or pupil, from us. Normally the parent pays the ex VAT price to the school when the order is raised. We then invoice the school and deliver the instrument. Our invoice includes VAT which the school then reclaims in the normal way.

What if the School is Private or Grant Maintained ?
H.M. Customs & Excise do not extend the same VAT exemption to these quarters. However, we can offer significantly discounted prices even in these circumstances. These savings are of course combined with a complete back up service.

How long will it take ?
All instruments will be delivered by ourselves or by courier. Should we not have the instrument in stock the order will be processed with the manufacturer as soon as is possible.

What are the rules ?
In order to comply with the regulations imposed by H.M. Customs & Excise, the following rules must be applied:
1. The student must be in full time education at an L.E.A School.
2. The student must be either a) receiving tuition at the school as part of their curriculum or b) receiving private tuition in support of a curricular activity such as GCSE music.
3. The instrument must be appropriate for the pupil's needs.
4. The instrument must be handed over from the school to the pupil in a designated teaching room.
5. The instrument must be charged to the pupil/pupil's parents either at, or below the schools cost (Ex VAT).