Assisted Places - supporting those facing financial barriers to learning

Assisted Places

As part of our commitment to the advancement, enjoyment, exploration and understanding of photography in Scotland and an extension of our Courses, Facilities and Creative Learning programmes, we are offering fully-funded places on our in-house and online courses.

Whether you are keen to learn a new technique to further your artistic practice, or if you would like to increase your skills for employability,

Apply Today

Our eclectic courses are taught by experienced artists and educators from a variety of fields of photography, digital media and lens-based arts. All materials are included, including access to any equipment you might need.

Who can apply?

Applications are open to anyone, of any age, facing financial barriers.

A guide to what these barriers are is as follows – this is not exhaustive, and if you have any questions around this please email courses@stills.org. All questions will be treated in confidence.

You may be eligible for Assisted Places if you fulfil one or more of the following criteria:

  • I frequently stress about basic* needs and don’t always achieve them.
  • I have debt and it sometimes prohibits me from meeting my basic needs.
  • I rent lower-end properties or have unstable housing.
  • I sometimes can’t afford public or private transport. If I own a car/have access to a car, I am not always able to afford petrol.
  • I am unemployed or underemployed.
  • I qualify for government and/or voluntary assistance including: food banks and benefits.
  • I have no access to savings.
  • I have no or very limited expendable** income.
  • I rarely buy new items because I am unable to afford them.
  • I cannot afford a holiday or have the ability to take time off without financial burden.

*BASIC NEEDS include food, housing, clothing and transportation.
**EXPENDABLE INCOME might mean you are able to buy coffee or tea at a shop, go to the cinema or a concert, buy new clothes, books and similar items each month, etc.

How do I apply?


Applications are open on a constantly rolling basis. Please visit our Courses & Learning page to review which course(s) you are interested in, then complete the

Application Form.

If you would prefer to submit a video application please send an mp4 file, no longer than 5 minutes, to Evan,
courses@stills.org.

The initiative is supported John Watson’s Trust; Leith Benevolent Association and the Nancie Massey Charitable Trust.