Too many string teachers work in isolation, without the training, mentoring or peer support they need to thrive and keep teaching. Cost, geography and caring responsibilities create barriers. In areas reliant on one or two teachers, a single departure can end local provision. Yet these pressures are poorly documented, leaving the workforce largely invisible to funders and policymakers.

ESTA UK will recruit 100 practising string teachers from across the UK, including beyond its membership. Drawing on ESTA Education's existing expertise and resources, we will provide six specialist sessions, peer groups, mentoring, practical materials and individual development plans. Twenty teachers will receive one-to-one mentoring and five awards of up to £600. A paid coordinator will support delivery, and the cohort will contribute evidence to What String Teachers Need.