Health and Wellbeing

We work with a broad range of medical specialists who deal with difficulties related particularly to performing musicians.
Registering with a GP International Students Alexander Technique
Student smile and talk in the Academy foyer.

The Academy provides access to trained first aiders, mental health support, and specialised medical networks designed specifically for performing musicians.

We want you to make the most of your time here and establish good habits that will help you in the long term as a musician in the future.

Registering with a Doctor (GP)

We strongly recommend that you register with a General Practitioner (GP) close to your London accommodation as soon as you arrive. To register, visit the doctor's surgery during consulting hours. You may be asked to show your Academy ID card and proof of your UK address.

  • Our Partner Practice: The Academy maintains a relationship with the Paddington Green Health Centre. They provide comprehensive treatment and advice for standard ailments, injuries, and specialist performance-related medical issues.
  • Alternative Choices: You can find a comprehensive local directory of alternative practices via the NHS Find a GP service.

Help with NHS Healthcare Costs

Students with a low income can apply for financial assistance with NHS prescription charges, dental care, and sight tests. You will need to complete an HC1 application form, which can be ordered or downloaded directly via the NHS Low Income Scheme website to receive your HC2 certificates.

International Student Healthcare

If you are an international student moving to the UK, your access to medical care depends on your visa arrangements:

  • Courses lasting 6 months or more: You are entitled to receive National Health Service (NHS) treatment on the same basis as UK citizens. Your visa application process includes the Immigration Health Surcharge, which covers this access. Once arrived, you can register with any local GP.
  • Travel Insurance: If you plan to travel outside of the UK during your vacation periods, we highly recommend purchasing a comprehensive annual travel insurance policy before you leave home.
  • For detailed immigration health updates, read the official UKCISA Health and Healthcare advice guide.

Essential Vaccinations

Recommended Immunisations

  • Meningitis (MenACWY): If you are under the age of 25, you are strongly advised to be immunised against meningitis. New students can receive this vaccine free of charge from their local NHS GP or via the Paddington Green Health Centre.
  • Tuberculosis (TB): If you require a Student Visa to enter the UK, check if you need to clear a tuberculosis test before traveling by reviewing the rules on the UK Government Visa website.

First Aid

The Academy has named, qualified Physical First Aiders positioned across the main building to respond to accidents. We also have certified Mental Health First Aiders available on-site if you find yourself feeling overwhelmed and need a immediate, sympathetic ear.

The Alexander Technique

The Alexander Technique is a practical psychophysical method that improves balance, coordination, and posture by bringing awareness to the connection between your thoughts and physical movements.

Incorrect postural habits and unnecessary muscular tension can distort your physical framework, impairing your technique, reducing stamina, and increasing the risk of professional-limiting injuries.

Through the Alexander Technique, you will learn to release these blockages, manage performance anxiety, and free up your creative potential. 

Before I studied in London I had not known about the Alexander Technique. I can thank the Royal Academy of Music for helping me discover the Technique and all its benefits. I had lessons for eighteen months and I feel that I changed a lot very positively. I think now that the Alexander Technique is one of the greatest things for a musician, and not only for your playing but also for your whole life

Zsuzsa Vamosi-Nagy, flute alumna

Free Individual Lessons

Thanks to a generous fund established by the late Sir and Lady Colin Davis, the Academy is able to offer students individual lessons in the Alexander Technique free of charge.

During these sessions, you can address the unique ergonomic demands of playing your specific instrument or singing, as well as optimising your day-to-day practice routines.

Our Alexander Technique teaching staff are:

  • Paul Moore (coordinator)
  • Dorothea Magonet
  • Ilana Machover
  • Kerin Black
  • Jan Steele
  • Victoria Walsh

See also: Society of Teachers of the Alexander Technique.