Welsh students are being prevented from accessing public student finance to study contemporary circus and physical theatre at Circomedia from September 2026. There is no alternative degree course in Wales.

Circomedia is a nationally recognised higher education provider (one of only two in the UK) delivering fully accredited degrees awarded by Bath Spa University. For many years, it has been a vital progression route for talented Welsh students pursuing professional circus training.

Without student finance, this pathway becomes inaccessible to most Welsh applicants. Students who have trained for years are now being forced to abandon or radically alter their career plans — not because of talent or dedication, but because funding eligibility has changed.

While similar restrictions may affect some musical theatre and dance provision, the consequences for circus students are uniquely severe. Welsh students have no equivalent domestic alternative.

There is also growing concern for continuing students. Some Welsh students already studying may no longer be able to rely on funding for the final year of their three-year courses, placing them in an extremely uncertain and distressing position.

Circus is a vibrant and growing part of Wales’s creative and cultural landscape. Welsh performers contribute to the arts sector, work internationally, and return to their communities to inspire the next generation. Restricting access to specialist training risks long-term damage to this ecosystem.

We urgently call on the Welsh Government to review this decision and introduce transitional protections for affected students.

Welsh students should not be excluded from accredited higher education opportunities solely because of domicile — particularly where no Welsh alternative exists.

Please sign this petition to support Welsh students, protect fair access to specialist education, and help safeguard the future of Welsh circus.