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2025-08-31-accounts

Charity Number: 1189066

RICHARD SHEPHARD MUSIC FOUNDATION

(Charitable Incorporated Organisation)

REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

for the year ended

31 August 2025

RICHARD SHEPHARD MUSIC FOUNDATION Charity Number: 1189066

REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025

CONTENTS Page
Chair of Trustees' Report 1
Trustees' Report 2 - 6
Independent Examiner's Report 7
Statement of Financial Activities 8
Balance Sheet 9
Cash Flow Statement 10
Notes to the Accounts 11 - 19

Impact Report (not forming part of the Report and Financial Statements)

RICHARD SHEPHARD MUSIC FOUNDATION

CHAIR OF TRUSTEES' REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025

Chair of Trustees' Report for the year ended 31 August 2025

The Foundation was established to celebrate the life and works of Dr Richard Shephard, who died in 2021. Its main objective is to increase musical opportunities for young children, so they can experience the great many educational, health, and wellbeing benefits that music can bring.

This year marks a special milestone: many of the children on our Schools Programme have now enjoyed four years of weekly music lessons. We’re well on track to reach our goal of teaching 10,000 children every week by 2026, which would mean nearly 1 in 7 primary-aged children in our region will be making music with us.

Independent evaluations and teacher feedback from our 34 partner schools revealed transformative results:

“A massive thank you. The love of music you are instilling in children is wonderful and it's breathing life back into the curriculum. I have been very inspired by it!” Teacher, Crayke CofE Primary School

Half of the Foundation’s partner schools have over 30% of pupils eligible for Free School Meals, and twelve are based in Arts Council England’s ‘Priority Places.’ By focusing on these areas, RSMF is ensuring access to the social, emotional, and educational benefits of music for children who might otherwise miss out.

We’re encouraged by the Government’s recent curriculum review report which commits to ensuring ‘that the arts are an entitlement within the national curriculum for every pupil, not an optional extra’. We think our work in the region is a practical example of how this can be delivered.

To our funders, schools, communities, music specialists, volunteers, and staff, thank you for helping to make it all happen.

Richard Grosberg

Chair of Trustees

1

RICHARD SHEPHARD MUSIC FOUNDATION

TRUSTEES’ ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025

The Trustees present their annual report together with the financial statements of the Charitable Incorporated Organistation (CIO) for the year ended 31 August 2025. The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with statutory requirements, the CIO’s governing document and the Statement of Recommended Practice: Accounting and Reporting by Charities (SORP FRS 102).

Reference and Administrative Details of the Charity, its Trustees and Advisers

Charity Name and Number

Richard Shephard Music Foundation: registered charity number 1189066 (Charitable Incorporated Organisation)

Correspondence Address

29 Marygate, YORK, YO30 7DR

Trustees

Richard Grosberg (Chair) The Hon Michael Benson MBE (Chair – resigned 31 December 2024) Sir Ron Cooke (resigned 31 December 2024) Professor Lynne Dawson Edward Young Andrea Hayes David Pipe James Downey

Chief Executive Officer: Cathy Grant

Bankers: Lloyds Bank, 1 Legg Street, CHELMSFORD, Essex, CM1 1JS

Independent Examiner: Adrian Rodaway BA, BFP, FCA, DChA, HPH Chartered Accountants, 54 Bootham, YORK, YO30 7XZ

Structure, Governance and Management

Nature of governing document

Richard Shephard Music Foundation is a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) governed by a foundation model constitution. The Charity was registered on 15 April 2020.

Recruitment and appointment of trustees

The Foundation must have no fewer than three Trustees and no more than eleven Trustees. The Trustees are the Members of the Foundation. The composition and skill base of the Trustee body is reviewed at least annually, with the aim of ensuring the mix of skills and experience needed to run the Foundation effectively. Trustees are appointed by the Trustee body for a period of up to three years, and may be reappointed.

A trustee skills audit was conducted in September 2025 and the board was considered to have a good range of skills necessary to oversee the charity. When trustees leave or take up a position, an induction/off boarding process is followed. The induction and training of new trustees depends on each individual’s trustee experience but, as a minimum, includes: DBS check, ‘role of a trustee’ training, safeguarding training, and

2

RICHARD SHEPHARD MUSIC FOUNDATION

TRUSTEES’ ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025

Structure, Governance and Management (continued)

a general induction from CEO including: the charity’s finances and a high level introduction to the charity’s work and funders.

Remuneration of key management personnel

Pay and remuneration of key personnel is reviewed annually by the board of trustees. Remuneration is also bench-marked with charities of a similar size and activity to ensure that the remuneration set is fair and not out of line with that generally paid for similar roles.

Volunteers

The charity has a small number of volunteers (5 to 10) that are called on to assist with major events such as Make Music Day. Volunteers are all subject to DBS checks, receive training as necessary, and agree to adhere to the charity’s Volunteer Policy.

Decision making

The charity holds four board meetings a year plus an annual Strategy Day for trustees and staff. In between these meetings, the finance committee meet three times. The trustees review high level strategy, the financial reports, and significant risks of the charity’s operations. The day to day running of the organisation is delegated to the staff.

Objectives and Activities

The principal objects as stated in the governing document are to advance the musical education of children and young people in Yorkshire and such other areas as the Trustees shall from time to time determine, by enhancing the knowledge, experience, enjoyment, understanding and performance of music, including through some or all of tuition, master-classes, events, concerts and the use of assistive technology.

The charity’s work is delivered through two core strands:

The flagship Schools Programme , providing weekly music sessions in primary schools across North Yorkshire and the North East; and

The Engagement Programme , which complements the school delivery through extracurricular and community-based activity, broadening access and reaching some of the most disadvantaged and isolated children.

The Engagement Programme includes Music Explorers holiday clubs (free music-making sessions primarily for disadvantaged children); and the annual Make Music Day , bringing together children from across the region for workshops led by professional musicians. Through this work the Foundation supports improved mental and emotional wellbeing, increased confidence and aspirations, enhanced musical skills and knowledge, and stronger music provision within schools.

3

RICHARD SHEPHARD MUSIC FOUNDATION

TRUSTEES’ ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025

Objectives and Activities (continued)

The need for our work and the difference it makes

Music education has declined significantly over the past decade. Nationally, 93% of children are excluded from arts education due to funding pressures , and 42% of secondary schools no longer enter pupils for GCSE Music (1) . Teacher shortages have further reduced provision: prior to joining our programme, 18% of partner schools did not deliver weekly music , with one reporting no music at all. Following engagement with RSMF, average weekly music provision in these schools increased from 29 minutes to 56 minutes per pupil .

Extensive research demonstrates the benefits of participatory arts activity for wellbeing, confidence, resilience and aspiration (2). Our own experience reflects this impact, particularly in schools serving disadvantaged communities. Pupils report feeling calmer, happier and more confident, while teachers highlight improved engagement, inclusion and motivation - especially among pupils with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities.

The Foundation’s most recent teacher survey (July 2025) showed that following the music sessions:

Pupil feedback echoed these findings: 94% could identify something they had learned and felt proud of, and 89% said music made them feel more positive, describing sessions as joyful, empowering and safe.

Together, this evidence demonstrates the effectiveness of the model in improving access to high-quality music education, supporting wellbeing and confidence, and helping to reduce inequalities in cultural opportunity across our region.

(1) - N8 Research Partnership, Child of the North: An evidence-based approach to creating a culture of inclusive opportunity through arts and creativity , March 2025

(2) - APPG for Arts, Health & Wellbeing, Creative Health: The Arts for Health and Wellbeing , July 2017

The Trustees believe they have complied with the duty in section 17(5) of the Charities Act 2011 to have due regard to guidance published by the Charity Commission in regard to public benefit.

Key risks and uncertainties

The board of trustees review key risks and uncertainties in each board meeting. Key risks include:

4

RICHARD SHEPHARD MUSIC FOUNDATION

TRUSTEES’ ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025

Achievements and Performance

In the previous report the Foundation outlined plans for 2024/2025 – here is an update of what’s been achieved:

Objective from last year’s report Update
2024/25 target: delivering music to 8,500 children 8,685 children received weekly music lessons,
totalling 8,250 hours of high-quality music education.
34 partner schools participated – including new
additions in East Yorkshire, Saltburn, Darlington,
Richmond, and Selby.
We will continue to develop new services for our
current schools/communities via partners and work
with other providers as appropriate.		 1,943 children took part in Foundation-led events,
concerts, and community performances.
The Foundation is exploring partnerships that would
help support children taught on our programme in
their next steps with music.
We will develop a plan to expand our engagement
programme and events such as Make Music Day
and our holiday club provision – more clubs in the
most disadvantaged areas.		 450 children joined the Foundation’s biggest-ever
Make Music Day, celebrating creativity and
collaboration through live workshops and
performances.
10 free “Music Explorers” holiday clubs reached 263
children, with an average of 57% eligible for Free
School Meals – rising to 85% in Scarborough.
The Trustees decided generally that the emphasis
of the organisation should shift from a strategy
aimed primarily at growth to a focus on quality and
evaluation, while at the same time retaining the
balance of activities we undertake.		 A specialist independent evaluator was
commissioned to report on the impact of the
Foundation’s work. Evaluation will take place during
2025/2026, with a report available in July 2026.

Plans for Future Periods

Following a review of history and achievements to date, the trustees agreed to continue to develop the Schools Programme with the aim of reaching 10,000 children by school year 2026/2027. Overall, 10,000 children would equate to the charity teaching music to around 14% of children across the three local authority regions represented.

5

RICHARD SHEPHARD MUSIC FOUNDATION

TRUSTEES’ ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025

Financial Review

The charity maintained a balanced range of income sources during 2024/2025. The split of income was as follows:

Charitable Activities 43% Trusts & Foundations & Grants 29% Private Donors 22% Gift Aid, Royalties and Other Income 6%

A focus on shifting to multi-year grants has paid off with nine funders committing to giving across three years. This has allowed RSMF to take on one extra team member onto the office team and will support the growth and sustainability of the school programme.

The total funds held by the Charity at 31 August 2025 amounted to £256,145 of which £nil related to restricted reserves. Free reserves, being unrestricted, undesignated funds not tied up in fixed assets, amounted to £254,746.

Reserves policy

The Trustees reviewed the reserves policy in September 2025 and agreed to aim to have 3 to 6 months of net projected expenditure, held in unrestricted reserves. Free reserves, being unrestricted, undesignated funds not committed to fixed assets, amounted to £254,746. This is within the range of the reserves policy.

Statement of Trustees’ Responsibilities

Charity law requires the Trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the Charity’s financial activities during the year and of its financial position at the end of the year. In preparing the financial statements, the Trustees are required to:

The Trustees are responsible for keeping proper accounting records which disclose with reasonable accuracy the financial position of the charity and which enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Charities Act 2011. They are responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charity and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

Signed on behalf of the Trustees on 17 March 2026

Richard Grosberg Chair

6

INDEPENDENT EXAMINER’S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES OF

RICHARD SHEPHARD MUSIC FOUNDATION

I report to the trustees on my examination of the accounts of Richard Shephard Music Foundation for the year ended 31 August 2025.

This report is made solely to the Charity's Trustees, as a body, in accordance with Section 154 of the Charities Act 2011. My independent examination work has been undertaken so that I might state to the Charity's Trustees those matters I am required to state to them in an Independent Examiner's Report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, I do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the Charity and the Charity's Trustees as a body, for my independent examination work, for this report, or for the opinions I have formed.

Responsibilities and basis of report

As the charity trustees of the Charity you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 (‘the Act’).

I report in respect of my examination of the Charity’s accounts carried out under section 145 of the 2011 Act and in carrying out my examination I have followed all the applicable Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the Act.

Independent examiner’s statement

Since the Charity’s gross income exceeded £250,000 your examiner must be a member of a body listed in section 145 of the 2011 Act. I confirm that I am qualified to undertake the examination because I am a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales, which is one of the listed bodies.

I have completed my examination. I confirm that no material matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination giving me cause to believe that in any material respect:

  1. accounting records were not kept in respect of the Charity as required by section 130 of the Act; or

  2. the accounts do not accord with those records; or

  3. the accounts do not comply with the applicable requirements concerning the form and content of accounts set out in the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 other than any requirement that the accounts give a ‘true and fair view which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination.

I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.

Adrian Rodaway BA, BFP, FCA, DChA HPH, Chartered Accountants 54 Bootham YORK YO30 7XZ

17 March 2026

7

RICHARD SHEPHARD MUSIC FOUNDATION

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025

Notes
Income and endownments from
Donations and legacies
2
Charitable activities
3
Other income
Investment income
Total
Expenditure on:
Charitable activities
4
Raising funds
5
Total
Net income/(expenditure)
6
Transfers between funds
Net movement in funds
Total funds brought forward at 1
September 2024
Total funds carried forward at 31
August 2025		 Unrestricted
Funds
£
285,815
287,917
1,300
5,847
580,879
432,229
57,998
490,227
90,652
-
90,652
165,493
256,145
£		 Restricted
Funds
£
89,718
-
-
-
89,718
135,688
-
135,688
(45,970)
-
(45,970)
45,970
-
£		 2025
£
375,533
287,917
1,300
5,847
670,597
567,917
57,998
625,915
44,682
-
44,682
211,463
256,145
£		 2024
185,981
284,241
1,556
4,974
476,752
505,265
54,060
559,325
(82,573)
-
(82,573)
294,036
211,463
£

The notes on pages 11 to 19 form part of these accounts.

8

RICHARD SHEPHARD MUSIC FOUNDATION

BALANCE SHEET AT 31 AUGUST 2025 Charity Number: 1189066

Notes
Fixed assets:
Tangible assets
9
Current assets:
Cash at bank and in hand
Debtors
10
Total current assets
Liabilities:
11
Net current assets
Total assets less current liabilities
The funds of the charity:
Unrestricted funds:
General funds
12
Restricted funds
13
Total charity funds
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year		 31 August
2025
£
1,399
238,516
21,383
259,899
5,153
254,746
256,145
£
256,145
-
256,145
£		 31 August
2024
1,211
163,887
53,941
217,828
7,576
210,252
211,463
£
165,493
45,970
211,463
£

Approved by the Trustees on 17 March 2026 and signed on their behalf by:

Edward Young Trustee

The notes on pages 11 to 19 form part of these accounts.

9

RICHARD SHEPHARD MUSIC FOUNDATION

CASH FLOW STATEMENT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025

Note
£
£
16
69,784
(1,002)
Net cash provided by/(used in)
operating activities
Cash flow from investing activities:
Purchase of tangible fixed assets
Interest received
5,847
4,845
74,629
163,887
17
£238,516
Change in cash and cash equivalents in
the year
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning
of the year
Cash and cash equivalents at end of the
year
2025
Net cash used in investing activities		 £
£
(100,998)
(1,200)
4,974
3,774
(97,224)
261,111
£163,887
2024		 £
£
(100,998)
(1,200)
4,974
3,774
(97,224)
261,111
£163,887
2024
(97,224)
261,111
£163,887

The notes on pages 11 to 19 form part of these accounts.

10

RICHARD SHEPHARD MUSIC FOUNDATION

NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025

1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES

a) Basis of preparation

The Accounts have been prepared in accordance with Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic or Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019) - (Charites SORP (FRS 102)), the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS102).

Richard Shephard Music Foundation meets the definition of a public benefit entity under FRS 102. Assets and liabilities are initially recognised at historical cost or transaction value unless otherwise stated in the relevant accounting policy note(s).

The principal address of the Charity is: 29 Marygate, YORK, YO30 7DR

b) Preparation of accounts on a going concern basis

The Trustees have a reasonable expectation that the Charity has sufficient resources to be able to continue in existence for the foreseeable future. They believe that the going concern basis is appropriate in the preparing the financial statements.

c) Funds structure

Unrestricted funds are funds which can be used in accordance with the charitable objects at the discretion of the Trustees. Designated funds are funds which have been set aside by the Trustees for a specific purpose. Restricted funds represent funds received for purposes restricted by the wishes of the donor.

d) Income

Income is recognised when the Charity has entitlement to the funds, any performance conditions attached to the item(s) of income have been met, it is probable that the income will be received and the amount can be reliably measured.

e) Expenditure

Expenditure is recognised once there is a legal or constructive obligation to make a payment to a third party, it is probable that settlement will be required and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably. Expenditure is classified under the following activity headings:

Expenditure on charitable activities relates to activities undertaken to further the purposes of the charity and includes their associated support costs.

Support costs include central functions and governance costs, and have been allocated to activities on a basis consistent with the use of those resources, e.g. allocation of staff costs by time spent and other costs by their usage. Governance costs include those incurred in the governance of the charitable company and its assets and primarily associated with constitutional and statutory requirements.

Expenditure on raising funds relates to activities undertaken to raise funds for the Charity.

f) Taxation

As a registered charity, the Charity is exempt from the payment of Corporation tax in respect of its charitable activities.

11

RICHARD SHEPHARD MUSIC FOUNDATION

NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS - CONTINUED FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025

1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

g) Debtors

Trade and other debtors are recognised at the settlement amount due after any trade discount offered.

h) Creditors and provisions

Creditors and provisions are recognised where the Charity has a present obligation resulting from a past event that will probably result in a transfer of funds to a third party and the amount due to settle the obligation can be measured or estimated reliably. Creditors and provisions are normally recognised at their settlement amount after allowing for any trade discounts due.

i) Cash at bank and in hand

Cash at bank and cash in hand includes cash and short term highly liquid investments with a short maturity of twelve months or less from the date of acquisition or opening of the deposit or similar account.

j) Fixed assets

Tangible fixed assets are depreciated over their expected useful lives at the following annual rates: Computer equipment over 3 years Office furniture over 5 years

k) Pension scheme

The Charity pays defined contributions into personal pension plans for its employees. Pension costs are charged to the Statement of Financial Activities (SOFA) and represent the contributions payable by the Charity in the period.

2. DONATIONS AND LEGACIES

Donations and grants
Gift Aid		 Unrestricted
Funds
£
251,553
34,262
285,815
£		 Restricted
Funds
£
89,718
-		 2025
£
341,271
34,262
375,533
£		 2024
£
176,578
9,403
89,718
£		 185,981
£

In 2024, donations and legacies totalling £112,125 related to restricted funds.

3. CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES

Schools' fees
Other activities		 Unrestricted
Funds
287,917
-
287,917
£		 Restricted
Funds
-
-		 2025
287,917
-
287,917
£		 2024
271,941
12,300
-
£		 284,241
£

In 2024, income from charitable activites totalling £12,300 related to restricted funds.

12

RICHARD SHEPHARD MUSIC FOUNDATION

NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS - CONTINUED FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025

4. ANALYSIS OF EXPENDITURE ON CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES

Costs directly allocated to activities:
Cost of events
Freelance costs
Support for Schools Programme
Teaching fees
Wages and salaries
Support costs:
Wages and salaries
Trustees' expenses
Payroll costs
Staff training
Statutory accounts and Independent
Examination fees
Sundry expenses
Telephone and internet
Travel and subsistence
Total expenditure on charitable
activities
Miscellaneous equipment
Photography
Printing, postage and stationery
Rent and service charges
Subscriptions
Office costs - light, heat, cleaning etc
Accountancy fees
Advertising, marketing and branding
Legal costs
Bank charges
Depreciation
Hospitality and entertainment
Insurance
IT software and consumables
Consultancy		 Unrestricted
Funds
£
7,840
1,200
5,784
316,482
23,550
1,142
13,304
130
6,111
814
1,543
2,343
4,018
-
1,232
2,120
879
1,090
3,943
7,940

163
1,154
3,175
203
1,484
1,492
30
23,063		 Restricted
Funds
£
16,770
-
103,721
-
15,197
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-		 2025
£
24,610
1,200
109,505
316,482
38,747
1,142
13,304
130
6,111
814
1,543
2,343
4,018
-
1,232
2,120
879
1,090
3,943
7,940
163
1,154
3,175
203

1,484
1,492
30
23,063		 2024
£
34,682
900
96,756
266,771
38,299
1,990
8,397
113
-
1,116
367
1,988
3,682
180
2,811
3,377
1,230
-
1,467
8,090
440
559
2,970
2,879
1,444
996
371
23,390
432,229
£		 135,688
£		 567,917
£		 505,265
£

In 2024, expenditure on charitable activities totalling £81,518 related to restricted funds.

13

RICHARD SHEPHARD MUSIC FOUNDATION

NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS - CONTINUED FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025

5. ANALYSIS OF EXPENDITURE ON RAISING FUNDS

Wages and salaries
Banking fees
Fundraising costs		 Unrestricted
Funds
£
57,581
417
-
57,998
£		 Restricted
Funds
£
-
-
-
-
£		 2025
2024
£
£
57,581
53,486
417
294
-
280
57,998
£
54,060
£

In 2024, expenditure on raising funds totalling £117 related to restricted funds.

6. NET INCOME/EXPENDITURE FOR THE YEAR

The surplus (2024 - deficit) for the year is stated after charging:

2025 2024
£ £
Depreciation 814 1,116
Independent Examiner's remuneration 3,175 2,970
Other fees paid to Examiner 1,142 1,990

7. STAFF COSTS AND TRUSTEES' REMUNERATION

Gross salaries and wages
Employer's pension contributions
Employer's national insurance contributions		 2025
£
108,820
4,413
6,158
119,391
£		 2024
£
106,624
4,177
4,374
115,175
£

The average number of employees in the year was 3 (2024 - 3) . There were no employees with emoluments above £60,000 in the year (2024 - none).

Travel expenses totalling £30 were paid for 1 Trustee (2024 - £371 1 Trustee). No other remuneration, benefits or expenses were received by any of the Trustees who held posts during the year in respect of their services to the Charity.

The key management personnel of the Charity comprise the Trustees and the Chief Executive Officer. The total employee benefits of the key management personnel were £49,381 (2024 - £53,710).

8. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

Donations received from related parties in the year totalled £115,146 (2024 - £9,725). There were no other related party transactions.

14

RICHARD SHEPHARD MUSIC FOUNDATION

NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS - CONTINUED FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025

9. FIXED ASSETS

Cost:
At 1 September 2024
Additions
At 31 August 2025
Depreciation:
At 1 September 2024
Charge for the year
At 31 August 2025
Net book values
At 31 August 2025
At 31 August 2024		 Office
furniture
£
1,200
-
1,200
240
240
480
720
£
960
£		 Computer
equipment
£
2,636
1,002
3,638
2,385
574
2,959
679
£
251
£		 Total
£
3,836
1,002
4,838
2,625
814
3,439
1,399
£
1,211
£

All fixed assets relate to unrestricted funds.

10. DEBTORS

DEBTORS
Trade debtors
Prepayments
VAT
Gift Aid recoverable		 Unrestricted
Funds
£
1,056
892
19,233
202
21,383
£		 Restricted
Funds
£
-
-
-
-
-
£		 2025
£
1,056
892
19,233
202
21,383
£		 2024
£
6,457
26,101
21,326
57
53,941
£

In 2024, no amounts related to restricted funds.

11. CREDITORS: amounts falling due within one year

Accruals and deferred income
Trade creditors
Other creditors		 Unrestricted
Funds
£
3,603
753
797
5,153
£		 Restricted
Funds
£
-
-
-
-
£		 2025
£
3,603
753
797
5,153
£		 2024
£
3,228
3,727
621
7,576
£

In 2024, no amounts related to restricted funds.

15

RICHARD SHEPHARD MUSIC FOUNDATION NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS - CONTINUED FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025

12. UNRESTRICTED FUNDS

Current period

Current period
General funds
Comparative period
Designated funds
Schools Programme
General funds
Total unrestricted funds
Total unrestricted funds		 Balance b/f
01/09/2024
165,493		 Incoming
Resources
580,879		 Resources
Expended
(490,227)		 Transfers
-		 Balance c/f
31/08/2025
256,145
165,493
£		 580,879
£		 (490,227)
£		 -
£		 256,145
£
Balance b/f
01/09/2023
160,000
130,856		 Incoming
Resources
-
352,327		 Resources
Expended
(54,310)
(423,380)		 Transfers
(105,690)
105,690		 Balance c/f
31/08/2024
-
165,493
290,856
£		 352,327
£		 (477,690)
£		 -
£		 165,493
£

The Schools Programme represented the amount allocated towards the cost of supporting the work in schools. The Trustees have made the decision not to designate this going forward. The balance at the year end has, therefore, been transferred to general funds.

13. RESTRICTED FUNDS

Current period

Big Give Christmas Challenge
Hillards Trust
Holbeck Charitable Foundation
York Music Hub, York Schools Programme
North Yorkshire County Council - HAF
Make Music Day
Cash for Causes
Shears Foundation
The Ed De Nunzio Charitable Trust
The Purey Cust Trust
Tees Foundation
Didymus
The Feoffees of St Michael Spurriergate
Easingwold
District
Community
Care
Association
Drax
Hull & East Riding Charitable Trust
Noble Charitable Trust
Victoria Wood Foundation		 Balance b/f
01/09/2024
-
1,000
15,000
-
-
-
-
9,720
2,750
10,000
7,500
-		 Incoming
Resources
23,366
-
-
547
11,426
3,290
11,000
14,400
-
-
-
2,500
2,000
1,750
500
4,412
9,527

5,000		 Resources
Expended
(23,366)
(1,000)
(15,000)
(547)
(11,426)
(3,290)
(11,000)
(24,120)
(2,750)
(10,000)
(7,500)
(2,500)
(2,000)
(1,750)
(500)
(4,412)
(9,527)
(5,000)		 Balance c/f
31/08/2025
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
45,970 89,718
£		 (135,688)
£		 -
£

16

RICHARD SHEPHARD MUSIC FOUNDATION

NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS - CONTINUED FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025

13. RESTRICTED FUNDS (CONTINUED)

Comparative period

Comparative period
Big Give Christmas Challenge
Hillards Trust
Holbeck Charitable Foundation
Royal Birmingham Conservatoire
York Music Hub, York Schools
Programme
North Yorkshire County Council - HAF
Make Music Day
Cash for Causes
Shears Foundation
The Ed De Nunzio Charitable Trust
The Purey Cust Trust
The
Whitwam
Family
Charitable
Foundation		 Balance b/f
01/09/2023
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
3,180
-
-
-
-
3,180		 Incoming
Resources
10,000
1,000
30,000
12,300
22,931
3,974
4,000
9,720
5,500
10,000
7,500
7,500
124,425
£		 Resources
Expended
(10,000)
-
(15,000)
(12,300)
(22,931)
(3,974)
(4,000)
(3,180)
(2,750)
-
-
(7,500)
(81,635)
£		 Balance c/f
31/08/2024
-
1,000
15,000
-
-
-
-
9,720
2,750
10,000
7,500
-
45,970
£

Big Give Christmas Challenge - Funding towards the expansion of the Schools Programme.

Hillards Trust - Funding towards York-based work.

Holbeck Charitable Foundation - Funding towards the expansion of our Schools Programme in 2024/2025.

Easingwold District Community Care Association - Funding towards club at Crayke Primary School.

York Music Hub, York Schools Programme - Funding to subsidise and develop the Schools Programme in York.

North Yorkshire County Council - HAF (Holiday Activities and Food) - Funding towards holiday clubs.

Make Music Day - Funding towards Make Music Day.

Cash for Causes - Funding towards providing weekly music at Eastfield primary schools.

Shears Foundation - Funding restricted towards our programme in York during 2023/2024 and 2024/2025 including schools programme, York holiday clubs, Make Music Day and proportion of related salaries and overheads.

The Ed De Nunzio Charitable Trust - Funding towards York-based work.

17

RICHARD SHEPHARD MUSIC FOUNDATION

NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS - CONTINUED FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025

13. RESTRICTED FUNDS (CONTINUED)

The Purey Cust Trust - Funding towards York-based work.

Tees Foundation - Funding towards work in Tees Valley schools.

Drax - Funding towards work in schools in Selby.

Hull & East Riding Charitable Trust - Funding towards work in schools in East Riding of Yorkshire.

Noble Charitable Trust - Funding towards work in rural schools.

Victoria Wood Foundation - Funding towards our Schools Programme and holiday clubs in North Yorkshire.

Didymus - Funding towards work in rural schools.

The Feoffees of St Michael Spurriergate - Funding to subsidise and develop our Schools Programme in York.

The Whitwam Family Charitable Foundation - Funding towards York-based work.

14. ANALYSIS OF NET ASSETS BETWEEN FUNDS

Current period
Unrestricted Funds
Restricted funds
Comparative period
Unrestricted Funds
Restricted funds		 Fixed
Assets
£
1,399
-
1,399
£
Fixed
Assets
£
1,211
-
1,127
£		 Current
assets
£
259,899
-
259,899
£
Current
assets
£
171,858
45,970
217,828
£		 Current
liabilities
£
(5,153)
-
(5,153)
£
Current
liabilities
£
(7,576)
-
(7,576)
£		 Total
£
256,145
-
256,145
£
Total
£
165,493
45,970
211,463
£

15. PENSION SCHEMES

The Charity runs a defined contribution scheme. The pension charge for the year includes contributions payable to scheme of £4,413 (2024 - £4,177).

18

RICHARD SHEPHARD MUSIC FOUNDATION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025

16.RECONCILIATION OF NET INCOME TO NET CASH FLOW
FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Net income for the reporting period
Depreciation of tangible fixed assets
Interest received
(Increase)/Decrease in debtors
(Decrease)/Increase in creditors
Net cashprovided by/(used in) operating activities
17.ANALYSIS OF CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS
Cash at bank and in hand
Total cash and cash equivalents
ANALYSIS OF CHANGES IN NET DEBT
At
01-Sep-24
£
Cash at bank and in hand
163,887
163,887		 2025
£
44,682
814
(5,847)
32,558
(2,423)
£ 69,784
238,516
£ 238,516
Cash-flows
£
74,629
74,629		 2024
£
(82,573)
1,116
(4,974)
(15,111)
544
£ (100,998)
163,887
£ 163,887
At
31-Aug-25
£
238,516
238,516

19

The following pages do not form part of the Report and Financial Statements

RICHARD SHEPHARD tW4]E OUR IMPACT 2024- 2025

“I’ve worked at this school for 23 years and I can honestly say this has been the best music programme the children have taken part in.” Teacher, Clifton Green Primary School

Welcome

This year marks a special milestone: many of the children on our Schools Programme have now enjoyed four years of weekly music lessons.

We’re well on track to reach our goal of teaching 10,000 children every week by 2026, which would mean nearly 1 in 7 primary-aged children in our region will be making music with us.

In this report, we’ll take you inside the classrooms, choirs, clubs, and concerts to show the real impact music is having on young lives.

“A massive thank you. The love of music you are instilling in children is wonderful and it's breathing life back into the curriculum. I have been very inspired by it!”

And none of it would be possible without you . To our funders, schools, communities, music specialists, volunteers, and staff, thank you for helping to make it all happen.

Chair of Trustees Richard Grosberg and CEO Cathy Grant

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Our Partner Schools

We have worked with 34 schools this year - many have been on the programme from the beginning! We have welcomed new schools in East Yorkshire, Saltburn, Darlington, Richmond and Selby:

York

Acomb Primary School Badger Hill Primary Academy Hob Moor Community Primary Academy Clifton Green Primary School Rufforth Primary School Heworth CE Primary School St Barnabas CE Primary School Carr Junior School Poppleton Road Primary School

East Yorkshire

Warter CE Primary School

North Yorkshire Pickering Community Junior School St George’s VC Academy, Scarborough Slingsby Community Primary School St Mary’s Catholic Primary School Middleham And Spennithorne Primary Schools Croft CE Primary School Middleton Tyas CE Primary School Barwic Parade Community Primary School Crayke CE Primary School Overdale Community Primary School Braeburn Primary Academy Camblesforth Community Primary Academy Richmond Methodist Primary School NEW

Tees Valley
Easterside Academy
Abingdon Primary School
St Francis of Assisi CE Primary School
Breckon Hill Primary School
Newham Bridge Primary School
Fairfeld Primary School
South Bank Primary School NEW
St John's CE Academy NEW
Handale Primary School NEW
Marton Manor Primary School NEW

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The difference we make

Celebrating a year of music, creativity and community

SCHOOLS & LESSONS

🎒 🎺 🎹 Partnered with Delivered weekly We delivered 8,250 34 schools music lessons to over hours of music 8,685 children education over the year

ENGAGEMENT PROGRAMME

🎻 Provided 34 events reaching 1,943 children

🎼

Welcomed 450 Delivered 10 Music children to our Explorers holiday biggest-ever clubs, involving Make Music Day 263 children

Why we’re needed

The need for our work is evident. Research shows that children in our country lack opportunities to access music education, with significant inequality of access between children from lower- and higher-income households. The most recent Child of the North report found that 93% of children are being excluded from arts and cultural education due to a lack of funding in state schools , with almost half (42%) of secondary schools no longer entering pupils for GCSE Music; and the same report said that children from the most affluent backgrounds were three times more likely to sing in a choir or play in an

orchestra than those in deprived areas. Our work directly addresses these inequalities, aiming to level the playing field for children across our region – reflecting our vision statement:

For all children to gain happiness from a lifelong love of music and to receive the social, emotional & educational benefits music can bring.

  1. N8 Research Partnership, Child of the North : An evidence-based approach to creating a culture of inclusive opportunity through arts and creativity, March 2025

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Each year, we have our lessons independently evaluated – feedback from our lesson observers included: “[The teacher’s] Our Our communication with pupils was very good – so important for nursery age – and it was a lovely lesson for the age group. If these nursery children continue having this programme they will be Impact Impact AMAZING musicians by the time they reach year 6!”

“[The teacher] is very

Feedback from our schools shows that our approach has powerful impact. Our most recent survey of staff at our partner schools found that, following our sessions:

A 97% felt their pupils’ musical knowledge was improved A 99% felt their pupils were more confident A 92% felt their pupils’ wellbeing was improved A 79% felt their pupils’ aspirations were increased A 94% felt their school’s standard of music teaching was improved

knowledgeable of the syllabus and adept at the technical side, and good at keeping pupils engaged.”

Feedback from other parties included:

“It is obvious that the Richard Shephard Music Foundation are having an impact at Barwic Parade Primary School as we had two sisters who came to our holiday club at Selby Abbey who were enthusiastic about the singing and so proud that they are part of the school's choir. They were really keen and able singers and it was a joy to hear them talk so enthusiastically about music and singing in school.”

Feedback from another holiday club provider

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Our Approach Consistent, accessible, hands on, primary music lessons for EVERY pupil EVERY week for as many years as possible.

What children learn on our Schools Programme

Our weekly music lessons, delivered with our partner Sing Education, start from nursery and reception with activities to build confidence then use active music making and plenty of singing to take children through a progressive programme throughout their primary years.

The lessons support schools to deliver the music curriculum and allow children to gain the following skills:

Musicianship: Pulse and Rhythm — read and perform rhythms and maintain timing.

Musicianship: Pitch — read and perform pitch notation, perform music with dynamics.

Singing & Performing — sing with confidence and perform rounds and partner songs.

Instrumental Performance — using keyboards, tuned percussion or melodic instruments to accompany and play complex melodies.

Composition and Improvisation — planning and composing melodies.

Working in the communities that need it most

“Without the national curriculum acting as a constant musical thread, available in school, a young person may only experience music education through one-off or short-term opportunities, or may not be able to access music at all. This makes long-term sustained progression allbut impossible for some young people.”*

The children we work with face specific barriers to music:

* Steps to improve the quality and quantity of music education in state schools, June 2025 Dr Adam Whittaker (Royal Birmingham Conservatoire), Dr Anthony Anderson (Birmingham City University), Birmingham Music Education Research Group)

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Case Study Music is a Key

We asked the children that featured in our Music is a Key film, what having more music in school means to them…

Jessica and Ivy have had classes at their school in Selby since September 2023. They’ve attended our Music Explorers holiday clubs and Make Music Day too!

"This year we've been learning composition skills - we've made our own music. … It surprised me how people can play Ode to Joy at different speeds - it amazed me how fast some people can play! … Sometimes people get stage fright, but I don't really anymore. I feel much more confident. I loved playing the ukulele this year."

"This year we've learnt about legato, rhythm names and music keywords - like forte and piano, that means loud and quiet. … It surprised me in choir when we did the World War 2 songs, I was not expecting that! … (When I'm performing) I sometimes get a bit nervous, but sometimes I don't - and then I like to help other people if they feel nervous. I feel much more confident now than I used to. … Music makes me feel safe, alive and overjoyed! … My favourite thing in music this year has been learning all the songs."

youtube Watch the film here: rb.gy/w6f585

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Clubs & Events

57%

of participants were eligible for Free School Meals on average

85%

of participants were eligible for Free School Meals in our Scarborough club

Our Engagement Programme:

Growing Stronger Every Year

Music Explorers Holiday Clubs

This year, our engagement work has continued to thrive, deepening connections with schools, communities, and musicians.

We were thrilled to run ten free music holiday clubs across York and North Yorkshire, welcoming over 260 children!

These clubs are delivered in partnership with the Government’s Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) Programme.

On average, 57% of participants were eligible for Free School Meals. Rising to 85% at our Scarborough club (against a national average of 26%).

From singing and drumming to DJ skills, ceilidhs, ‘build a band’ sessions, and visits to York Minster, children enjoyed a wide range of musical experiences - plus plenty of food and fun!

8

----- Start of picture text -----
CAMERA Gabrieli Roar and Frances Marshall Photographer
----- End of picture text -----

Bringing Music to Schools & Communities

Beyond the holiday clubs, we’ve created exciting opportunities for children in our partner schools to get involved in music:

Gabrieli Roar at York Minster

60 children from Barwic Parade (Selby) and Clifton Green (York) took part in choral workshops and a spectacular, soldout Christmas performance.

Eastfield Christmas Celebration

Children from Overdale and St George’s VC Academy performed festive songs for the community as part of the Eastfield Cash for Causes initiative, which has generously supported our work in three schools across the Eastfield estate.

Big Give Christmas Busking

Pupils from St Barnabas, Clifton Green, and Acomb Primary Schools busked to support our Big Give Christmas campaign – helping to raise an incredible £26,271.49!

Live Music in Schools

We brought talented musicians into schools to inspire the next generation and gave 200 children from rural schools a full day of music at Deer Shed Festival’s Spark Schools Day.

Make Music Day

And of course, we celebrated with 450 children at our fourth Make Music Day - more on that next!

CAMERA Gabrieli Roar and Frances Marshall Photographer

9

Make Music Day

We welcomed 14 partner schools and 450 children to our fourth annual Make Music Day — and what a day it was!

From beatboxing and brass to a stunning orchestra from the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, the workshops were bursting with energy, talent, and inspiration.

Huge thanks to the incredible musicians who led the sessions, and to our brilliant supporters and partner organisations who joined us to see the joy music brings. And of course – thank you to the schools, staff, and volunteers who make the music happen, every single day. Here are some comments from children that took part in the day…

“You guys are the best and very talented!”

“The orchestra was the best part of the day.”

“Back Chat Brass was my favourite – the games were really fun!”

Our trustee Andrea summed it up beautifully:

“Music inspires, unites and empowers. The Foundation brings that power into classrooms – ensuring every child, whatever their background, can access highquality music teaching.”

“It was the best day of my life!”

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----- Start of picture text -----
“Music should not be an enrichment only activity or framework; it is a fundamental part of
a young person’s creative development.”
----- End of picture text -----*

SUPPORT US

In 2025-26, we expect the full cost of our programme to be in the region of £750,000.

That’s just £75 per child to receive a weekly music lesson throughout their whole school year, plus access to our other events!

Around half of our income will be raised through our Schools Programme – but the remainder must be raised through grants or charitable donations from individuals, trusts & foundations, and corporate partners.

If you’d like to support our work, there are several ways you can help:

Become a Friend of the Foundation

Friends of the Foundation benefit from newsletters keeping you updated about our work, key successes, and our events calendar. We also plan a few exclusive concerts and networking events each year to which Friends are invited.

To become a friend, we ask you to provide a regular monthly or annual donation to the charity. We leave you the flexibility to set the amount you want to give – the average monthly donation made by Friends of the Foundation is £26. Additionally, if you are a UK taxpayer, by saying yes to Gift Aid on your monthly donation, the Foundation can claim an extra 25p for every £1 you give at no additional cost to you.

Visit www.rsmf.org.uk/support for more details.

Make a one-off donation

Every penny we receive makes a difference. There are several ways you can make a one-off donation:

Online: Visit donate.rsmf.org.uk/donate to make an online donation of any amount of your choosing.

Bank transfer:

Richard Shephard Music Foundation, Lloyds Bank, Sort code: 30-96-26, Account number: 72571268

Cheque: Cheques can be sent by post to our office at 29 Marygate, York YO30 7DR – if you’d like to Gift Aid a donation by cheque, please do request a donation form (email info@rsmf.org.uk or phone 07845 878642 ).

Spread the word

Raising the profile of the Richard Shephard Music Foundation is so valuable – if you’d like to see our sessions running in your local school, or know somebody who would love the work we do, please do let them know about us!

You can direct potential supporters or schools to an online copy of this Impact Report at:

www.rsmf.org.uk/our-impact

*Steps to improve the quality and quantity of music education in state schools, June 2025 Dr Adam Whittaker (Royal Birmingham Conservatoire), Dr Anthony Anderson (Birmingham City University), Birmingham Music Education Research Group

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RICHARD SHEPHARD tygu¢ www.rsmf.org.uk