1. Tuition Fees & Payment Terms
- We offer an easy monthly payment plan (flat monthly rate) to help families spread the cost of tuition evenly across the year.
- Payments are collected automatically by AutoPay on the 1st of each month. We do not accept bank transfers, cash, or cheques. Invoices are stored in the Student Portal.
- Tuition fees are calculated as: Lesson Fee × 38 Lessons ÷ 12 Monthly Payments.
- This means you pay the same amount each month. Some months may contain 5 lessons, others 2 or 3, and August contain none, but the annual tuition fee balances out across the year.
- Please note: There are no lessons in August. However, monthly payments continue as the annual tuition fee is divided into 12 equal monthyly instalments.
- Late payments exceeding 10 days incur a 10% late fee. Repeated late payments may result in the loss of the student's lesson slot.
- All fees are non-refundable and non-transferable (except between siblings).
2. Cancellations and Make-up Policy
- We do not reschedule or refund missed lessons due to our full timetable and long waiting list and, most importantly, to protect your child's progress through a consistent lesson schedule.
- How to cancel: please cancel via the Student Portal (Calendar tab). No need to message - the system notifies us automatically.
- As an alternative to make-up lessons (optional): 1:1 students may upload a video of their assigned pieces on Practice Space for teacher feedback. Beginners may request a short teacher video for guidance and support on songs they need help with.
- Repeated cancellations indicate the slot may not be suitable and may result in it being offered to a student on the waiting list.
Illness Policy:
- If you are unable to attend due to illness or an emergency, please cancel via the Student Portal (Calendar tab) as soon as possible so we are notified.
- This policy applies to genuine illness and emergencies only. If the cancellation is made at least 24 hours before the lesson start time, a lesson credit will be issued. Credits do not guarantee a make-up lesson and are subject to availability. On rare occasions, make-up slots may become available in the Student Portal (Find & Book tab) if another student cancels. Credits may be used to book either an available 1:1 or group lesson.
- Credits expire after 30 days and are limited to 3 per academic year (1 per term).
- No need to message us separately - the system notifies us automatically.
Teacher cancellations:
- Any lessons cancelled by the studio will always be rescheduled, credited, or refunded.
Forgotten Books:
- Students must bring all relevant piano books to every lesson. Without the correct books, we are unable to teach the lesson as intended, and valuable learning time is lost. If books are repeatedly forgotten, replacement copies may be issued and invoiced.
3. Studio Calendar
- Our studio runs 38 weeks per academic year, aligned with Bromley school term dates. This consistency guarantees steady progress and lasting results.
- Visit the full 2025/2026 Studio Calendar
4. Practice expectations & attendance
- Students are expected to practise and prepare assigned work ready to be passed at the following lesson. Those who attend regularly and practise consistently make the strongest progress. Frequent absences, repeated requests to reschedule, or insufficient practice may result in slow progress and, in some cases, discontinuation of lessons, as we prioritise committed students and high standards.
- Examinations must be earned through consistent effort over time and the development of a broad, well-rounded repertoire. Families should ensure students have sufficient time and commitment to practise consistently between lessons.
Minimum Practice Expectations:
- Beginners to early levels: 30 minutes, 4 times per week
- Grades 3–8: 1 hour daily
5. Lesson Expectations
Punctuality & Arrival:
- Please arrive on time with all required books and materials in an A4 folder or bag, plus bottled water. Arrive no more than 5 minutes early, as there is no waiting room. Lesson reminders are sent by SMS and email 2 hours before each lesson.
- Late arrivals will receive the remaining lesson time only, as lessons must finish promptly for the next student.
- Parents/guardians do not attend lessons. Siblings with back-to-back lessons may wait in the studio.
- Please drop off and collect your child quietly and on time. Please do not park in front of neighbouring driveways.
Books & Materials:
- Piano books must be brought to every lesson. Without them, valuable learning time is lost. Replacement books may be issued and charged if books are repeatedly forgotten.
Conduct & Care:
- Shoes must be removed on arrival. Hands should be clean and nails kept short. False nails are not permitted.
- Bottled water is permitted; food and other drinks are not.
- Students and families are expected to treat teachers, instruments, equipment, furniture, and fellow students with respect. Any damage not covered by insurance may be charged to the responsible party.
- Tuition may be withdrawn for persistent disruptive behaviour, disrespectful conduct, repeated failure to practise, poor attendance, excessive cancellations, repeated late payments, misuse of studio equipment, or failure to comply with studio policies. Tuition fees are non-refundable.
6. Instrument Requirement
- An upright acoustic piano or digital piano is required for all students. After the first lesson, a suitable instrument must be arranged so practice can begin straight away.
- Beginners can start with a weighted 88-key digital piano (recommended), or a 61-key touch-sensitive keyboard as a short-term option if budget is a concern.
- As students progress, we strongly recommend upgrading to a high-quality weighted 88-key digital piano, or an acoustic upright piano for greater tonal control, touch sensitivity, and musical expression.
7. Pausing or Ending Lessons
Pausing Lessons:
- Lesson slots cannot be held during temporary absences or extended breaks. To retain your lesson slot, tuition fees must continue as normal. Otherwise, the space may be offered to a student on the waiting list.
Notice Period:
- Please provide 30 days' written notice to stop lessons. Lessons and fees continue as normal during the notice period, and refunds are not available for unused lessons. This allows lessons to conclude positively and ensures a smooth transition for everyone.
8. Parent Communication
The studio communicates primarily via email, SMS, phone, studio newsletters and WhatsApp (07712-220 513).
Families are responsible for reading studio communications, announcements, invoices, and timetable updates.
9. Recitals, Events & Performance Opportunities
- SStudent Recitals are a core part of our programme and offer a special opportunity for students to build confidence, stage presence, and performance skills. While formal with etiquette to learn, the event is relaxed and fun!
- Ticket prices help cover venue and material costs: Adults £11.50 | Children and seniors £6.50 | Children under 5: Free