Children in Nottinghamshire can access instrument and singing lessons through their primary and secondary schools, as part of the Council’s Instrumental and Music Teaching scheme.
Lessons take place in schools, during the school day. Instruments on offer range from the piano and harp to drums and guitars, plus singing lessons. The range of lessons will depend on what your local school has chosen to offer – contact them for details. Lessons can be for individuals, or shared amongst a group of pupils.
Teachers
All the teachers are highly qualified musicians, and have had Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks. Their skills are kept up-to-date with regular training, and many of them perform locally, nationally, and internationally.
Lessons are observed yearly and marked using the current Ofsted criteria.
Exams
We offer a range of examinations, which are optional. Our teachers can help prepare pupils for these, and for university and conservatoire entry if required.
Fees
Lesson costs vary, and are set by individual schools. Typically, a shared lesson of 20 minutes costs around £5.50 per week. Most schools ask that fees be paid termly, in advance – please check with your local school.
Instruments
You can either buy or loan a musical instrument from the Council.
Financial help
Children who receive free school meals or hold an NHS Tax Credit exemption certificate are eligible for free lessons and instrument hire. This also applies to Looked After Children. Please let the school know that your child is entitled to this – they may require you to provide annual proof of the NHS Tax Credit exemption in the form of the exemption certificate.
Support for children and young people identified as having Special Educational Needs is considered on a case by case basis. Teachers will notify us if they feel a child needs further support.
