Students accepted into MCYA have demonstrated their musical ability at an early age, along with the capability to work with focus and purpose. At the Academy, we aim to create a positive, non-competitive atmosphere.

To ensure the smooth running of each day, students are asked to observe the following rules:

• Students are expected to arrive at least 15 minutes before the first session and sign in for the day.
• A sign-in form will be available in the foyer of the Ian Potter Southbank Centre.
• At the end of the day, students are required to sign out before leaving the building.
• All food and drink needed for the day needs to be brought in by the students.
• Water fountains are available on each floor.
• Food should be consumed during break times in the foyers on level 8 and the ground floor.
• The music for the chamber music groups and large ensembles will be sent via email well in advance.
• Students are expected to come well prepared for each session.
• All students are required to perform in each concert and in at least two masterclasses per semester, as well as support fellow students in concerts and masterclasses during their performances.

MCYA runs on Saturdays and/or Sundays generally in the afternoons. Students must be prepared to attend all dates as outlined in the calendar.

Students are expected to be ready to begin on time. Attendance will be taken at the beginning of each session. Students are chosen to participate in MCYA because of their musical ability and potential to pursue music in the future. It is important that students fulfil every opportunity offered with interest and dedication. Attitude is as important as talent.

Every MCYA student must take part in all aspects of the program provided and the program shall be a priority for each student.

Students are responsible for their own punctual attendance at every class offered by MCYA. If there is a medical reason or emergency that prevents a student from attending classes, a written note from a doctor would be advisable.

The MCYA expects students to refrain from any behaviour which interferes with the instruction given, is disruptive or inappropriate.

Should a student, after a warning by the relevant teacher, continue to display inappropriate behaviour, the student’s parents will be notified and further steps will be taken. This might result in the student being asked to leave the program.

Refunds will be given in cases where withdrawal from the program is advised before the commencement date, however an administration fee of $100 will be deducted from the refund amount.

After commencement of the program, refund requests will only be considered if withdrawal is a result of medical circumstances or exceptional circumstances out of the student’s control.

Parents and guardians must notify MCYA in writing should they wish to withdraw from the program. Students will be required to undertake another entrance audition if they wish to join the program again at a later date.

Tuition fees must be paid in full prior to the commencement of the program. A letter outlining payment options will be sent via email following a successful audition.

Consistent communication between MCYA and students and parents/guardians is vital to ensuring students' progress and wellbeing. All communication, whether via email or phone, between teachers/admin and students must be made with the full knowledge of the student’s parent or guardian.

MCYA will communicate mainly via email, however in exceptional circumstances it may be required to make contact by phone or text message. It is important that all contact details for students and parents/guardians are always up to date.

Students, parents/caregivers and staff are expected to observe general rules of appropriate behaviour. Respect for yourself, your surroundings and your peers is expected at all times.

• No form of verbal or physical behaviour with the intention to harass fellow students will be tolerated.
• Students are strictly not permitted to leave the building while classes are on.
• Every student will have to sign in at the start of the day and sign out at the end of the day.
• Should students be expected make their own way home using public transport, the parents/caregivers must notify MCYA in writing.
• Students are expected to observe all University of Melbourne policies and procedures while in the building.
• Instruments are not to be left in teaching or rehearsal rooms unsupervised. Students are responsible for looking after their instruments at all times.
• Parents/caregivers are not permitted to observe coaching sessions. They are very welcome to attend concerts and masterclasses.
• Any damage to Melbourne Conservatorium of Music property caused by the student will become the responsibility of the student’s parents or caregivers.