Company registration number: 00751458 Charity registration number: 306231
DORSET RURAL MUSIC SCHOOL LIMITED KNOWN AS
DORSET RURAL MUSIC SCHOOL
(A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
Chartered Accountants
DORSET RURAL MUSIC SCHOOL LIMITED
KNOWN AS DORSET RURAL MUSIC SCHOOL
CONTENTS
| Reference and Administrative Details | 1 |
|---|---|
| Trustees' Report | 2 to 7 |
| Independent Examiner's Report | 8 |
| Statement of Financial Activities | 9 |
| Balance Sheet | 10 |
| Notes to the Financial Statements | 11 to 25 |
DORSET RURAL MUSIC SCHOOL LIMITED
KNOWN AS DORSET RURAL MUSIC SCHOOL
REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS
Chairman Mrs J Newall Trustees: Mrs J Newall Mr J Goodman Mr G Jones Dr R C Hall Miss A Ecclestone Miss L J Martin Mr M W M Warren Senior Management / Ms E Marsden, Musical Director Leadership Team Charity Registration Number 306231 Company Registration Number 00751458
The charity is incorporated in England and Wales. Registered Office The Music School The Close Blandford Forum Dorset DT11 7HA Independent Examiner Edwards and Keeping Limited Unity Chambers 34 High East Street Dorchester Dorset DT1 1HA
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DORSET RURAL MUSIC SCHOOL LIMITED
KNOWN AS DORSET RURAL MUSIC SCHOOL
TRUSTEES' REPORT
The trustees, who are directors for the purposes of company law, present the annual report together with the financial statements and auditors' report of the charitable company for the year ended 31 August 2025.
Objectives and activities
Objects and aims
The purposes of the Charity are:
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to provide an organisation for the teaching of music;
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to provide a music centre for students of all ages living in the villages and towns of Dorset, and - to promote the study and practice of music, especially in its social and co-operative forms among such students.
We aim to promote and encourage musical education and facilities for students of all ages and abilities at our own premises, in local schools, colleges and venues.
Objectives, strategies and activities
The strategies employed to achieve the charity's aims and objectives are to:
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offer tuition in all standard instruments, singing and in the theory of music;
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to teach students at all levels and of all ages;
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to teach a wide variety of musical styles;
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to prepare candidates for exams or play for pleasure;
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to offer the use of a music library and shop, and- to offer a range of musical instruments for short or long-term hire.
Public benefit
Teaching is our core activity where we offer flexibility to meet your musical needs. We are able, to provide group or individual tuition, at the Music School, in your home or via Zoom and we welcome all ages and abilities. In our ever, changing society our School continues to evolve offering Music Therapy and reaching out through community projects.
The trustees confirm that they have complied with the requirements of section 17 of the Charities Act 2011 to have due regard to the public benefit guidance published by the Charity Commission for England and Wales.
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DORSET RURAL MUSIC SCHOOL LIMITED
KNOWN AS DORSET RURAL MUSIC SCHOOL
TRUSTEES' REPORT
Achievements and Performance
The Financial Year began very positively, with secure funding in place to continue developing our groundbreaking Educational Health and Wellbeing Initiative for schools.
1. The Rhythm of Life Project
Outreach & Geographical Expansion
School bookings commenced at the beginning of the Autumn term 2024. We effectively advanced our strategy to extend our reach to pupils in state schools across Dorset and beyond, expanding our geographical outreach into Wiltshire and Somerset.
During the Autumn term, we provided intensive workshops for 18 schools, including three senior schools and two Special Educational Needs (SEN) schools. Within this 12-week period, we reached 2,460 pupils through full-school workshops. We also successfully delivered our first week-long residency to Year 5 pupils at Milldown School, our beacon school for the Discovery Programme.
Funding & Leadership
Our work was initially facilitated by the steadfast and pivotal support of our Benefactor. We also received significant and crucial funding from two additional charitable trusts: The Mansell Pleydell Trust and The Semma Fund. This exceptional support has been foundational to the establishment of the Rhythm of Life Project, which is created, coordinated, and delivered by our Director, Ellen Marsden, in close partnership with our Head of Percussion, Felix Gibbons.
Key Collaborations & High-Impact Events
• The Larmer Tree Project (Spring 2025): We were invited to collaborate on this innovative six-month initiative, working with both familiar and new schools. This culminated in a Pageant Day of celebration at Larmer Tree and a spectacular final-day drumming performance featuring 500 children under the age of eleven-a fantastic finale to a highly successful year of inclusive outreach development.
• Patronage & Fundraising (May 2025): We were deeply honoured to have the project officially adopted by our new patrons, the Grammy-winning Brazilian ensemble, Trio Corrente. They performed generously at our fundraising event held at The Sherborne. Our long-standing Patron, Tim Laycock, also performed alongside violinist Emma-Marie Kabanova to an enthusiastic audience of supporters. Additionally, we welcomed Mr. Jonty Archibald, Head Teacher of King Arthur’s School, who spoke at the event as our Project Ambassador.
• Strategic Development: We were delighted to welcome back Dr. Melita Armitage to help coordinate the fundraising event, and we look forward to working with her further on future fundraising and strategic planning.
Educational Impact & Methodology
By the close of the Summer term 2025, the project had engaged 12,500 young people, including students across five special schools. Operating through a completely inclusive approach tailored to all ages and abilities, we also provided specialised staff INSET training sessions upon request. Furthermore, we completed two additional successful residencies at Stalbridge Junior School and Bincombe School in Weymouth.
We have dynamically expanded our artistic practice to achieve a broad provision of foundational musical skills:
Workshops are designed to weave in vital cross-curricular topics-embracing mathematics, the sciences, creative writing, PSHRE, and physical coordination-while robustly reinforcing "soft skills" such as team building, active listening, deep concentration, and self-esteem. We are thrilled with the overwhelmingly positive feedback from both pupils and staff. Crucially, the programme is also successfully supporting our teaching staff by inspiring pupils to begin instrumental lessons, providing sustainable new employment pathways that help to secure livelihoods for practitioners.
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DORSET RURAL MUSIC SCHOOL LIMITED
KNOWN AS DORSET RURAL MUSIC SCHOOL
TRUSTEES' REPORT
2. The Discovery Programme
The Discovery Programme has progressed from strength to strength over the past year:
• Instrumental Expansion: Following the Rhythm of Life residency, pupils at Milldown School have continued to thrive, with a steady stream of new sign-ups. In November 2024, we successfully introduced flute and cello lessons to Milldown pupils, marking a significant milestone in encouraging young people to take up orchestral instruments.
• Rural & Specialised Tuition: Discovery has successfully increased the volume of "at home" lessons for children living in isolated rural areas. Through this specialised scheme, we also deliver tailored music lessons directly to children with special needs in their homes.
• Community Inclusivity: We have welcomed several adult pupils into the programme who would otherwise struggle to afford private tuition, allowing them to benefit immensely from learning an instrument.
• New Schools: Two further schools were welcomed into the Discovery Programme: St. Nicholas Child Okeford and Pimperne School, both of which participated in the Larmer Tree Project.
• Recruitment & Assemblies: We provided targeted music assemblies to introduce new instruments to pupils. This has directly resulted in a wave of new brass recruits, new cello students, and strong interest in violin lessons.
• Future Ambitions: Subject to pupil availability and securing sustainable funding to keep the Discovery Programme financially stable, we hope to eventually establish a small youth orchestra.
• Cultural Heritage: Several schools benefited from further visits from our wonderful Patron, Tim Laycock, who continues to captivate pupils with his superb teaching of folk songs and storytelling, preserving precious knowledge of local heritage and folklore.
3.Core Operations at Dorset Rural Music School HQ
In-House Tuition
Pupil numbers at our main headquarters remain stable, with a modest increase of "in-house" tuition enrolment. We noted a clear rise in lesson bookings for brass, strings, keyboard, and voice, introduced a dedicated Theory Club this year, which directly supported two GCSE music pupils from a local school.
International Work Experience Placement
For the first time, we were very pleased to provide a comprehensive work experience placement for a talented student flautist from the Paris Conservatoire. During her residency, our placement student benefited from a broad coverage of professional music administration and event experience.Her responsibilities included supporting teaching staff with everyday operations, welcoming incoming pupils, executing general administrative tasks, and systematically organising our extensive music library. She also assisted with front-of-house operations by welcoming audience members to an evening concert. She provided remendous support to our core team throughout her stay, resulting in overwhelmingly positive feedback from our staff, pupils, and her conservatoire tutors during and following her visit.
Share a Tune Sessions
Our Share a Tune sessions remain consistently well-attended. These workshops continue to provide an excellent, relaxed, and positive setting for pupils of all ages and abilities to meet, connect, and play music together.
Music Appreciation Group (Bridport)
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DORSET RURAL MUSIC SCHOOL LIMITED
KNOWN AS DORSET RURAL MUSIC SCHOOL
TRUSTEES' REPORT
Led by Mr. Ian Lowes, our Bridport Music Appreciation group remains ever-popular. Attendees enjoy a broad and balanced diet of musical genres. The group has seen a steady increase in membership, and participants thoroughly enjoy the social benefits of their connection, frequently meeting as friends outside of formal term times.
Sing for Pleasure Choir
Operating under the expert direction of our singing teacher, Felicity Goodman, the choir remains highly popular. It serves as a wonderful circle of community friendship where members support one another and enjoy the rich social and mental health benefits of singing together.
Conclusion & Outlook
We are extremely pleased with the profound progress achieved throughout 2024 and 2025. A significant organisational turnaround has been accomplished, due in immense part to the exceptional generosity of our Benefactor and supporting Trusts. As we look ahead, we remain highly focused on maintaining and consolidating this hard-won momentum. We are actively seeking ongoing funding to secure financial stability for further development, which will allow us to attract new pupils and increase our roster of experienced practitioners as community demand continues to rise.
Financial review
During the year, the charity received gross income of £186,252 (2024 £102,415), this comprises donations of £110,633 (2024 £45,105) and government grants of £1,750 (2024 £nil). The increase in donations is largely due to a benefactor who has committed to support of monthly gifting of £2,500, along with other donations totalling £71,919 in the year (including gift aid). In addition to other private donors who have provided significant donations to the charity during the financial year. Income from Charitable activities increased during the year, 2025 £72,971 (2024 £57,067).
Funds in surplus/deficit
The charity's total funds moved into a surplus position during the year, with a closing balance of £33,157 at 31 August 2025, compared with a deficit of £4,583 at 31 August 2024. This comprises unrestricted funds of £28,955 (2024 deficit £7,410) and restricted funds of £4,202 (2024 £2,827).
Going concern
The Trustees consider that it is appropriate to prepare the financial statements on a going concern basis. The charity's principal creditor is a loan from one of the Trustees, which amounted to £12,000 at 31 August 2025. During the year, the Trustee formally waived £20,000 of the original loan balance of £32,000, thereby significantly strengthening the charity's financial position. Repayment of the remaining balance is not required until the charity is in a secure position to do so.
In addition the Trustees continue to investigate opportunities to enchance the long term sustainability of the Music School and identify areas where the financial performance can be improved. As a result of these factors the Trustees consider the going concern basis is appropriate.
Structure, governance and management
Nature of governing document
Dorset Rural Music School is a company limited by guarantee governed by its Memorandum and Articles of Association dated 26th February 1963. It is registered as a charity with the Charity Commission.
Recruitment and appointment of trustees
It is a requirement that the Board of Governors shall have full discretion as to the admission of any person wishing to become a trustee on the Board upon written request.
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DORSET RURAL MUSIC SCHOOL LIMITED
KNOWN AS DORSET RURAL MUSIC SCHOOL
TRUSTEES' REPORT
Induction and training of trustees
The existing Trustees ensure that new members are given sufficient training and gain enough knowledge to understand the nature of the charity to fully comply with its aims and objectives.
Arrangements for setting key management personnel remuneration
The key management to Dorset Rural Music School, other than the Trustees, is the Musical Director whose rate of pay is reviewed by the Trustees, whom themselves receive no remuneration.
Organisational structure
The Board of Governors, administers the charity and have appointed the Musical Director to be responsible for the day to day activities of the Charity. The Musical Director is also responsible for reporting to a smaller group of Trustees, a sub committee, primarily dealing with the financial affairs of the Charity, who meet on a regular basis.
Funds held as custodian trustee on behalf of others
The Charity administers a COIF Charities Investment Fund - Income Units at a market value of £2,836 (2024 £2,940) at the balance sheet date.
This fund is known as 'The Fanny Kindersley Trust' and upon her death Fanny Kindersley, who formed the Dorset Choral Association, left a legacy in order that a memorial trust could be formed and administered by the Dorset Choral Association. The income from that trust fund was to be accumulated and awarded in every third year to a promising musician resident in the County of Dorset for the purpose of assisting in his or her musical education or advancement. Since the demise of the Dorset Choral Association in 1976 the administration of this fund has passed to the Dorset Rural Music School.
The capital is invested in a separate fund entitled 'The Fanny Kindersley Trust' and is not reflected on the Balance Sheet as part of the School's Funds. However, the Trustees who administer this investment have voted the income thereon be donated to the Dorset Rural Music School in furtherance of its objectives.
Statement of trustees' responsibilities
The trustees (who are also the directors of Dorset Rural Music School Limited for the purposes of company law) are responsible for preparing the trustees' report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice), including FRS 102 "The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland".
Company law requires the trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial year. Under company law the trustees must not approve the financial statements unless they are satisfied that they give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charitable company and of the incoming resources and application of resources, including its income and expenditure, of the charitable company for that period. In preparing these financial statements, the trustees are required to:
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select suitable accounting policies and apply them consistently;
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observe the methods and principles in the Charities SORP;
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make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent;
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state whether applicable accounting standards, comprising FRS 102 have been followed, subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the financial statements; and
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prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the charitable company will continue in business.
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DORSET RURAL MUSIC SCHOOL LIMITED
KNOWN AS DORSET RURAL MUSIC SCHOOL
TRUSTEES' REPORT
The trustees are responsible for keeping proper accounting records that can disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charitable company and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charitable company and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.
The trustees are responsible for the maintenance and integrity of the corporate and financial information included on the charitable company's website. Legislation governing the preparation and dissemination of financial statements may differ from legislation in other jurisdictions.
Small companies provision statement
This report has been prepared in accordance with the small companies regime under the Companies Act 2006.
Approved by the trustees of the charity on 24 June 2026 and signed on its behalf by:
Mrs J Newall Chairman and Trustee
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DORSET RURAL MUSIC SCHOOL LIMITED
KNOWN AS DORSET RURAL MUSIC SCHOOL
INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES OF DORSET RURAL MUSIC SCHOOL LIMITED
I report to the charity trustees on my examination of the accounts of the Company for the year ended 31 August 2025.
Responsibilities and basis of report
As the charity’s trustees of the Company (and also its directors for the purposes of company law) you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 (‘the 2006 Act’).
Having satisfied myself that the accounts of the Company are not required to be audited under Part 16 of the 2006 Act and are eligible for independent examination, I report in respect of my examination of your charity’s accounts as carried out under section 145 of the Charities Act 2011 (‘the 2011 Act’). In carrying out my examination I have followed the Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the 2011 Act.
Independent examiner’s statement
I have completed my examination. I confirm that no matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination giving me cause to believe:
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accounting records were not kept in respect of Dorset Rural Music School Limited as required by section 386 of the 2006 Act; or
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the accounts do not accord with those records; or
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the accounts do not comply with the accounting requirements of section 396 of the 2006 Act 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; or
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the accounts have not been prepared in accordance with the methods and principles of the Statement of Recommended Practice for accounting and reporting by charities [applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102)].
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.
S J Hough FCA
Edwards and Keeping Limited Unity Chambers 34 High East Street Dorchester Dorset DT1 1HA
29 June 2026
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DORSET RURAL MUSIC SCHOOL LIMITED
KNOWN AS DORSET RURAL MUSIC SCHOOL
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025 (INCLUDING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT AND STATEMENT OF TOTAL RECOGNISED GAINS AND LOSSES)
| Note Income and Endowments from: Donations and legacies 3 Charitable activities 4 Other trading activities 5 Investment income 6 Total income Expenditure on: Raising funds 7 Charitable activities 8 Total expenditure Gains/losses on investment assets Net income/(expenditure) Net movement in funds Reconciliation of funds Total funds brought forward Total funds carried forward 22 |
Unrestricted funds £ 110,633 72,971 760 138 184,502 - (148,064) (148,064) (73) 36,365 36,365 (7,410) 28,955 |
Restricted funds £ 1,750 - - - 1,750 - (375) (375) - 1,375 1,375 2,827 4,202 |
Total 2025 £ 112,383 72,971 760 138 186,252 - (148,439) (148,439) (73) 37,740 37,740 (4,583) 33,157 |
Total 2024 £ 45,105 57,067 108 135 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 102,415 | ||||
| (138) (105,642) |
||||
| (105,780) 155 |
||||
| (3,210) | ||||
| (3,210) (1,373) |
||||
| (4,583) |
All of the charity's activities derive from continuing operations during the above two periods. The funds breakdown for 2024 is shown in note 22.
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DORSET RURAL MUSIC SCHOOL LIMITED
KNOWN AS DORSET RURAL MUSIC SCHOOL
(REGISTRATION NUMBER: 00751458) BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31 AUGUST 2025
| Note Fixed assets Tangible assets 15 Investments 16 Current assets Stocks 17 Debtors 18 Cash at bank and in hand 19 Creditors: Amounts falling due within one year 20 Net current assets/(liabilities) Net assets/(liabilities) Funds of the charity: Restricted income funds Restricted funds Unrestricted income funds Unrestricted funds Total funds 22 |
2025 £ 12,882 1,982 14,864 6,969 6,927 42,211 56,107 (37,814) 18,293 33,157 4,202 28,955 33,157 |
2024 £ 12,725 2,055 |
|---|---|---|
| 14,780 | ||
| 6,742 7,475 13,058 |
||
| 27,275 (46,638) |
||
| (19,363) | ||
| (4,583) | ||
| 2,827 (7,410) |
||
| (4,583) |
For the financial year ending 31 August 2025 the charity was entitled to exemption from audit under section 477 of the Companies Act 2006 relating to small companies.
Directors' responsibilities:
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The members have not required the charity to obtain an audit of its accounts for the year in question in accordance with section 476; and
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The directors acknowledge their responsibilities for complying with the requirements of the Act with respect to accounting records and the preparation of accounts.
The financial statements on pages 9 to 25 were approved by the trustees, and authorised for issue on 24 June 2026 and signed on their behalf by:
Mrs J Newall Chairman and Trustee
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DORSET RURAL MUSIC SCHOOL LIMITED
KNOWN AS DORSET RURAL MUSIC SCHOOL
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
1 Charity status
The charity is limited by guarantee, incorporated in England and Wales, and consequently does not have share capital. Each of the trustees is liable to contribute an amount not exceeding £1 towards the assets of the charity in the event of liquidation.
2 Accounting policies
Summary of significant accounting policies and key accounting estimates
The principal accounting policies applied in the preparation of these financial statements are set out below. These policies have been consistently applied to all the years presented, unless otherwise stated.
Statement of compliance
The financial statements 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 of Ireland (FRS 102)) (issued in October 2019) - (Charities SORP (FRS 102)), the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) and the Companies Act 2006.
Basis of preparation
Dorset Rural Music School Limited 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 notes.
Going concern
The trustees consider that there are no material uncertainties about the charity's ability to continue as a going concern nor any significant areas of uncertainty that affect the carrying value of assets held by the charity. Further details are shown in the Trustees' report.
Exemption from preparing a cash flow statement
The charity opted to early adopt Bulletin 1 published on 2 February 2016 and have therefore not included a cash flow statement in these financial statements.
Income and endowments
All income is recognised once the charity has entitlement to the income, it is probable that the income will be received and the amount of the income receivable can be measured reliably.
Donations and legacies
Donations are recognised when the charity has been notified in writing of both the amount and settlement date. In the event that a donation is subject to conditions that require a level of performance by the charity before the charity is entitled to the funds, the income is deferred and not recognised until either those conditions are fully met, or the fulfilment of those conditions is wholly within the control of the charity and it is probable that these conditions will be fulfilled in the reporting period.
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DORSET RURAL MUSIC SCHOOL LIMITED
KNOWN AS DORSET RURAL MUSIC SCHOOL NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
Grants receivable
Grants are recognised when the charity has an entitlement to the funds and any conditions linked to the grants have been met. Where performance conditions are attached to the grant and are yet to be met, the income is recognised as a liability and included on the balance sheet as deferred income to be released.
Expenditure
All expenditure is recognised once there is a legal or constructive obligation to that expenditure, it is probable settlement is required and the amount can be measured reliably. All costs are allocated to the applicable expenditure heading that aggregate similar costs to that category. Where costs cannot be directly attributed to particular headings they have been allocated on a basis consistent with the use of resources, with central staff costs allocated on the basis of time spent, and depreciation charges allocated on the portion of the asset’s use. Other support costs are allocated based on the spread of staff costs.
Raising funds
These are costs incurred in attracting voluntary income, the management of investments and those incurred in trading activities that raise funds.
Charitable activities
Charitable expenditure comprises those costs incurred by the charity in the delivery of its activities and services for its beneficiaries. It includes both costs that can be allocated directly to such activities and those costs of an indirect nature necessary to support them.
Support costs
Support costs include central functions and have been allocated to activity cost categories on a basis consistent with the use of resources, for example, allocating property costs by floor areas, or per capita, staff costs by the time spent and other costs by their usage.
Governance costs
These include the costs attributable to the charity’s compliance with constitutional and statutory requirements, including audit, strategic management and trustees meetings and reimbursed expenses.
Government grants
Government grants are recognised based on the accrual model and are measured at the fair value of the asset received or receivable. Grants are classified as relating either to revenue or to assets. Grants relating to revenue are recognised in income over the period in which the related costs are recognised. Grants relating to assets are recognised over the expected useful life of the asset. Where part of a grant relating to an asset is deferred, it is recognised as deferred income.
Taxation
The charity is considered to pass the tests set out in Paragraph 1 Schedule 6 of the Finance Act 2010 and therefore it meets the definition of a charitable company for UK corporation tax purposes. Accordingly, the charity is potentially exempt from taxation in respect of income or capital gains received within categories covered by Chapter 3 Part 11 of the Corporation Tax Act 2010 or Section 256 of the Taxation of Chargeable Gains Act 1992, to the extent that such income or gains are applied exclusively to charitable purposes.
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DORSET RURAL MUSIC SCHOOL LIMITED
KNOWN AS DORSET RURAL MUSIC SCHOOL NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
Tangible fixed assets
Individual fixed assets are initially recorded at cost, and thereafter cost less any subsequent depreciation and/or impairment.
Depreciation and amortisation
Depreciation is provided on tangible fixed assets so as to write off the cost or valuation, less any estimated residual value, over their expected useful economic life as follows:
Asset class Depreciation method and rate Land and buildings Not depreciated Music for library Not depreciated Musical instruments 10% reducing balance Fixtures and fittings 10% reducing balance Office equipment 10% reducing balance
Fixed asset investments
Fixed asset investments, other than programme related investments, are included at market value at the balance sheet date. Realised gains and losses on investments are calculated as the difference between sales proceeds and their market value at the start of the year, or their subsequent cost, and are charged or credited to the Statement of Financial Activities in the period of disposal.
Unrealised gains and losses represent the movement in market values during the year and are credited or charged to the Statement of Financial Activities based on the market value at the year end.
Stock
Stock is valued at the lower of cost and estimated selling price less costs to complete and sell, after due regard for obsolete and slow moving stocks. Cost is determined using the first-in, first-out (FIFO).
Trade debtors
Trade debtors are amounts due from customers for merchandise sold or services performed in the ordinary course of business.
Trade debtors are recognised initially at the transaction price. They are subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method, less provision for impairment. A provision for the impairment of trade debtors is established when there is objective evidence that the charity will not be able to collect all amounts due according to the original terms of the receivables.
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents comprise cash on hand and call deposits, and other short-term highly liquid investments that are readily convertible to a known amount of cash and are subject to an insignificant risk of change in value.
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DORSET RURAL MUSIC SCHOOL LIMITED
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
KNOWN AS DORSET RURAL MUSIC SCHOOL
Trade creditors
Trade creditors are obligations to pay for goods or services that have been acquired in the ordinary course of business from suppliers. Accounts payable are classified as current liabilities if the charity does not have an unconditional right, at the end of the reporting period, to defer settlement of the creditor for at least twelve months after the reporting date. If there is an unconditional right to defer settlement for at least twelve months after the reporting date, they are presented as non-current liabilities.
Trade creditors are recognised initially at the transaction price and subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method.
Fund structure
Unrestricted income funds are general funds that are available for use at the trustees discretion in furtherance of the objectives of the charity.
Restricted income funds are those donated for use in a particular area or for specific purposes, the use of which is restricted to that area or purpose.
Pensions and other post retirement obligations
The charity operates a defined contribution pension scheme which is a pension plan under which fixed contributions are paid into a pension fund and the charity has no legal or constructive obligation to pay further contributions even if the fund does not hold sufficient assets to pay all employees the benefits relating to employee service in the current and prior periods.
Contributions to defined contribution plans are recognised in the Statement of Financial Activities when they are due. If contribution payments exceed the contribution due for service, the excess is recognised as a prepayment.
Financial instruments
Classification
Financial assets and financial liabilities are recognised when the charity becomes a party to the contractual provisions of the instrument.
Financial liabilities and equity instruments are classified according to the substance of the contractual arrangements entered into. An equity instrument is any contract that evidences a residual interest in the assets of the charity after deducting all of its liabilities.
Recognition and measurement
All financial assets and liabilities are initially measured at transaction price (including transaction costs).
Financial assets and liabilities are only offset in the statement of financial position when, and only when there exists a legally enforceable right to set off the recognised amounts and the charity intends either to settle on a net basis, or to realise the asset and settle the liability simultaneously.
Financial assets are derecognised when and only when a) the contractual rights to the cash flows from the financial asset expire or are settled, b) the charity transfers to another party substantially all of the risks and rewards of ownership of the financial asset, or c) the charity, despite having retained some, but not all, significant risks and rewards of ownership, has transferred control of the asset to another party.
Financial liabilities are derecognised only when the obligation specified in the contract is discharged, cancelled or expires.
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DORSET RURAL MUSIC SCHOOL LIMITED
KNOWN AS DORSET RURAL MUSIC SCHOOL NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
Investments
Investments in non-convertible preference shares and non-puttable ordinary or preference shares (where shares are publicly traded or their fair value is reliably measurable) are measured at fair value through profit or loss. Where fair value cannot be measured reliably, investments are measured at cost less impairment.
Fair value measurement
The best evidence of fair value is a quoted price for an identical asset in an active market. When quoted prices are unavailable, the price of a recent transaction for an identical asset provides evidence of fair value as long as there has not been a significant change in economic circumstances or a significant lapse of time since the transaction took place. If the market is not active and recent transactions of an identical asset on their own are not a good estimate of fair value, the fair value is estimated by using a valuation technique.
3 Income from donations and legacies
| Unrestricted funds General £ Donations and legacies; Donations from individuals 110,633 Grants, including capital grants; Government grants - 110,633 The 2024 income all related to unrestricted funds. 4 Income from charitable activities The study and practice of music |
Restricted funds £ - 1,750 1,750 Unrestricted funds General £ 72,971 |
Total 2025 £ 110,633 1,750 112,383 Total 2025 £ 72,971 |
Total 2024 £ 45,105 - |
|---|---|---|---|
| 45,105 | |||
| Total 2024 £ 57,067 |
The 2024 income all related to unrestricted funds.
5 Income from other trading activities
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DORSET RURAL MUSIC SCHOOL LIMITED
KNOWN AS DORSET RURAL MUSIC SCHOOL
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
| Unrestricted funds General £ Trading income; Sales of goods and services - Events income; Other events income 760 760 The 2024 income all related to unrestricted funds. 6 Investment income Unrestricted funds General £ Other investment income 138 The 2024 income all related to unrestricted funds. 7 Expenditure on raising funds a) Costs of trading activities Costs of goods sold The 2024 expenditure all related to unrestricted funds. |
Total 2025 £ - 760 760 Total 2025 £ 138 Total 2025 £ - - |
Total 2024 £ 8 100 |
|---|---|---|
| 108 | ||
| Total 2024 £ 135 |
||
| Total 2024 £ 138 |
||
| 138 | ||
- 16 -
DORSET RURAL MUSIC SCHOOL LIMITED
KNOWN AS DORSET RURAL MUSIC SCHOOL
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
8 Expenditure on charitable activities
| Note Depreciation, amortisation and other similar costs Staff costs Allocated support costs 9 Governance costs 9 |
Unrestricted funds General £ 105,597 685 30,670 6,192 4,920 148,064 |
Restricted funds £ 375 - - - - 375 |
Total 2025 £ 105,972 685 30,670 6,192 4,920 148,439 |
Total 2024 £ 67,130 1,390 29,996 2,326 4,800 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 105,642 |
- £6,722 of the 2024 expenditure related to restricted funds.
9 Analysis of governance and support costs
Charitable activities expenditure
| Charitable activities expenditure | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Repairs and renewals Telephone and internet Computer software and maintenance costs Printing, postage and stationery Bank Charges Bookkeeping |
Unrestricted funds General £ - 1,222 315 138 533 3,984 6,192 |
Total 2025 £ - 1,222 315 138 533 3,984 6,192 |
Total 2024 £ 271 68 324 273 560 - |
| 1,496 |
-
£240 of the 2024 expenditure related to restricted funds.
-
17 -
DORSET RURAL MUSIC SCHOOL LIMITED
KNOWN AS DORSET RURAL MUSIC SCHOOL
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
Governance costs
| Independent examiner fees Examination of the financial statements Other fees paid to examiners |
Unrestricted funds General £ 975 3,945 4,920 |
Total 2025 £ 975 3,945 4,920 |
Total 2024 £ 750 4,050 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4,800 |
The 2024 expenditure all related to unrestricted funds.
10 Net incoming/outgoing resources
| Net incoming/(outgoing) resources for the year include: Loss on disposal of fixed assets held for the charity's own use Depreciation of fixed assets |
2025 £ - 685 |
2024 £ 722 668 |
|---|---|---|
11 Trustees remuneration and expenses
During the year the charity made the following transactions with trustees:
Dr R C Hall
Dr R C Hall received payments of £1,281 (2024: £702) during the year.
This payments were made in respect of freelance music tutor services provided.
Miss L J Martin
Miss L J Martin received payments of £7,911 (2024: £6,187) during the year.
The payments were made in respect of freelance music tutor services provided.
12 Staff costs
The aggregate payroll costs were as follows:
| Staff costs during the year were: Wages and salaries Social security costs Pension costs Other staff costs |
2025 £ 29,996 116 126 432 30,670 |
2024 £ 29,996 - - - |
|---|---|---|
| 29,996 |
The monthly average number of persons (including senior management / leadership team) employed by the charity during the year expressed as full time equivalents was as follows:
- 18 -
DORSET RURAL MUSIC SCHOOL LIMITED
KNOWN AS DORSET RURAL MUSIC SCHOOL
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
| 2025 No Musical director 1 No employee received emoluments of more than £60,000 during the year. 13 Independent examiner's remuneration 2025 £ Examination of the financial statements 975 Other fees to examiners All other services 3,945 |
2024 No 1 |
|---|---|
| 2024 £ 750 |
|
| 4,050 |
14 Taxation
The charity is a registered charity and is therefore exempt from taxation.
- 19 -
DORSET RURAL MUSIC SCHOOL LIMITED
KNOWN AS DORSET RURAL MUSIC SCHOOL
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
15 Tangible 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 value At 31 August 2025 At 31 August 2024 16 Fixed asset investments |
Land and buildings £ 5,563 - 5,563 - - - 5,563 5,563 |
Furniture and equipment £ 36,039 843 36,882 28,877 686 29,563 7,319 7,162 |
Total £ 41,602 843 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 42,445 | |||
| 28,877 686 |
|||
| 29,563 | |||
| 12,882 | |||
| 12,725 | |||
| Other investments | 2025 £ 1,982 |
2024 £ 2,055 |
|---|---|---|
- 20 -
DORSET RURAL MUSIC SCHOOL LIMITED
KNOWN AS DORSET RURAL MUSIC SCHOOL
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
Other investments
| Cost or Valuation At 1 September 2024 Revaluation At 31 August 2025 Net book value At 31 August 2025 At 31 August 2024 17 Stock Stocks 18 Debtors Trade debtors Prepayments 19 Cash and cash equivalents Cash on hand Cash at bank |
Unlisted investments £ 2,055 (73) 1,982 1,982 2,055 2025 £ 6,969 2025 £ 4,623 2,304 6,927 2025 £ 10 42,201 42,211 |
Unlisted investments £ 2,055 (73) 1,982 1,982 2,055 2025 £ 6,969 2025 £ 4,623 2,304 6,927 2025 £ 10 42,201 42,211 |
Total £ 2,055 (73) 1,982 1,982 2,055 2024 £ 6,742 |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1,982 | ||||
| 1,982 | ||||
| 2,055 | ||||
| 2025 £ 6,969 2025 £ 4,623 2,304 6,927 2025 £ 10 42,201 42,211 |
||||
| 2024 £ 7,475 - |
||||
| 7,475 | ||||
| 2024 £ 10 13,048 |
||||
| 13,058 |
- 21 -
DORSET RURAL MUSIC SCHOOL LIMITED
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
KNOWN AS DORSET RURAL MUSIC SCHOOL
20 Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
| 20 Creditors: amounts falling due within one year | ||
|---|---|---|
| Trade creditors Other loans Other taxation and social security Other creditors Accruals |
2025 £ 5,478 12,000 3,126 3,081 14,129 37,814 |
2024 £ - 32,000 839 1,844 11,955 |
| 46,638 |
Other borrowings
Other loans comprise an interest free loan amounting to £12,000 at 31 August 2025 from Dr R Hall to the School in furtherance of its charitable activities. During the year, Dr Hall waived £20,000 of the loan balance at 31 August 2024 and this has been included as a donation during the year. Dr R Hall was employed as Musical Director until his retirement from this position in December 2021 when he was appointed a Trustee of the Charity.
21 Contingent liabilities
The charity had a charge of £9,000 raised against it in the financial year to 31 August 2024, this is disputed by the Trustees and is considered not probable to be incurred. The charge relates to professional services. There have been no developments in relation to this matter during the accounting period ending 31 August 2025, and the claim has not been pursued since it was originally raised.
- 22 -
DORSET RURAL MUSIC SCHOOL LIMITED
KNOWN AS DORSET RURAL MUSIC SCHOOL
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
22 Funds
| Unrestricted funds General General Fund Restricted funds Business Resilience Fund Dorset Council - Arts and Culture Fund Total funds |
Balance at 1 September 2024 £ (7,410) 2,827 - 2,827 (4,583) |
Incoming resources £ 184,502 - 1,750 1,750 186,252 |
Resources expended £ (148,064) (375) - (375) (148,439) |
Other recognised gains/(losses) £ (73) - - - (73) |
Balance at 31 August 2025 £ 28,955 2,452 1,750 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4,202 | |||||
| 33,157 |
The general fund of the charity includes losses of £73 (2024 gains of £155) in respect of the revaluation of investments.
- 23 -
DORSET RURAL MUSIC SCHOOL LIMITED
KNOWN AS DORSET RURAL MUSIC SCHOOL
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
| Unrestricted funds General General fund Restricted D'Oyly Carte Fund Craft Union - Press pause Fund Dorset Council - Arts and Culture Fund Nature Heals Fund Business Resillience Fund Total restricted funds Total funds |
Balance at 1 September 2023 £ (10,922) 2,750 1,000 1,750 950 3,099 9,549 (1,373) |
Incoming resources £ 102,415 - - - - - - 102,415 |
Resources expended £ (99,058) (2,750) (1,000) (1,750) (950) (272) (6,722) (105,780) |
Other recognised gains/(losses) £ 155 - - - - - - 155 |
Balance at 31 August 2024 £ (7,410) - - - - 2,827 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2,827 | |||||
| (4,583) |
The specific purposes for which the funds are to be applied are as follows:
The Business Resilience Fund received from Dorset Council has enabled the charity to actively seek professional advice and implement new strategies to promote and move the school forward in our ever changing society.
Whilst the remaining restricted funds have been awarded for the provision of community projects, promoting the benefits of music and song to a wider audience.
- 24 -
DORSET RURAL MUSIC SCHOOL LIMITED
KNOWN AS DORSET RURAL MUSIC SCHOOL NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
23 Related party transactions
During the year the charity made the following related party transactions:
Mrs J Newall
(Trustee)
During the year ended 31 August 2024, Mrs J Newall provided a loan of £2,000 to the charity. The loan was repaid in the year ended 31 August 2024..
Dr R Hall
(Trustee)
Other loans in note 20, comprise an interest free loan amounting to £12,000 (2024 £32,000) from Dr R Hall to the School in furtherance of its charitable activities. Dr Hall formally waived £20,000 of the loan balance which has been reflected in the Statement of Financial Activites as donations income. The loan is repayable on demand. Dr R Hall was employed as Musical Director until his retirement from this position in December 2021, when he was appointed a Trustee of the Charity.
Ms E Marsden
(Musical Director)
As Musical Director, the annual salary is £29,996 (2024 £29,996), with mileage expenses reimbursed of £2,376 (2024 £2,889) and miscellaneous expenses reimbursed of £2,193 (2024 £1,109). The employer incurs National Insurance contributions of £116 (2024 £nil) and pension contributions of £126 (2024 £nil)
In addition to Ms Marsdens capacity as Musical Director she also provides freelance services as a Music Teacher of the charity at a discounted rate, services provided 2025 £21,885 (2024 £9,293)
.
- 25 -