Anyone got experience/tips on getting funding for performing arts?

[bsmirched]

My niece has an unconditional offer at LTS. Student loans are not available but I know that a Dance and Drama award is a possibility.

The thing is, my sister is terminally ill, she is obviously anxious to get as much stuff sorted, or at least in the pipeline, as soon as possible. I want to help in any way I can and I'm also aware that it may well be me who is sorting funding for subsequent years.
Does anyone have any experience or tips on how to get grants or scholarships? Any help greatly appreciated!

Oh ok, I understand now. My D has been on an Acting foundation course, but it was covered by Student Finance.

Yes foundation or pre-voc are a scary proposition

DD was an excellent dancer, easily the best in her school on 3 associate schemes, receiving funding (incl gov funding) to progress

& then she auditioned, 2 diplomas, 4 Foundation/pre-voc & 3 Btec level 3 - no funding - so we all came down to earth with a bump & we realised she was basically average (when put with her peers)

My parents paid for the pre-voc & second time around she got 7 offers & funding for 6 of them

We didn't have a plan B the first time - but the second time DD's plan B was to do a Btec level 3 in technical theatre & then try for a degree

It's not an easy path