We have gathered together our most frequently asked questions here – if you have a query you will likely find the answer on this page.
If you don’t see the question/answer you need, please contact us.
How long after sending the application will it take to arrange lessons?
Once your application has been received at the office, we will be in touch to advise it has been received and sent to the relevant teacher. The teacher will then be in touch within 7 days to discuss and arrange lessons with you once finalised the office will invoice you for lessons.
Do I have to pay immediately?
If starting part way through the term, payment must be made prior to the first lesson taking place. We invoice 5-6 weeks ahead of each new term for current pupils, we ask the invoice is paid prior to the first day of the new term. Please refer to the T&C page of the application for more information on payments.
Can I pay monthly?
Yes, if you wish to arrange monthly payments please email info@swindonmusiccoop.co.uk and we can help set this up.
How to pay?
You can pay your invoice via BACS using the bank details provided on the invoice.
We do not accept cash or cheques.
What happens if all the lessons paid for are not given in the term?
Once the term is complete, any lessons not provided are credited back to the account to be deducted from future invoices or refunded as applicable.
Who should I contact if I have an issue about payments, wish to make a change or update my details?
For all payment and account queries email info@swindonmusiccoop.co.uk with the details and we will be in touch within 24 hours.
Where and when do lessons take place?
The majority of lessons happen at school during the school day. Your child’s instrumental teacher will advise you on what day and time lessons will take place. We also teach at home and on-line, depending on your needs.
How long are the lessons?
We offer 15, 20, 30 and 15-minute lessons. Lesson costs and durations can be found on the application form or here. The lessons length is arranged between yourself and the Teacher, so we can find the most suitable lesson length to suit your child.
Can I cancel lessons if my child no longer wishes to continue?
Yes lessons can be cancelled by emailing info@swindonmusiccoop.co.uk or by submitting our online cancellation form. Please note that lessons may only cease at the end of a full term (Autumn, Spring or Summer). Notice to stop must be given at least 7 days’ prior to the start of a new term.
Can my child change instrument part way through a term?
Yes, please contact the office if you wish to change instrument.
Do I need to let you know if my child is absent?
Yes, you should advise the teacher and the office as soon as possible of any unplanned absence, like illness. For planned absences such as holidays etc you need to give the Teacher 7 days’ notice if your child cannot attend due to a prior engagement.
How will I know what day and time my child’s lesson is on?
The teacher will provide you with a timetable of lessons detailing day and time at the start of each term, or when applying to start lessons.
Once lessons are arranged, can I change the lesson length?
Yes, you can do so by emailing info@swindonmusiccoop.co.uk with your instruction to amend the lesson length.
Will my child require their own instrument?
Yes, an instrument for practicing at home in between lessons is essential. We hire instruments at £30.00 per term. Your child will also be expected to take their instrument to their lessons at school.
Who should I speak to if I have questions regarding my child’s lessons, progress and attendance?
All lesson or learning queries should be addressed to your child’s teacher. We will also provide you with an annual report in the Summer.
What if I have an issue or am unhappy with my child’s teacher?
Should you have any issues or concerns regarding an SMC teacher you should in the first instance send an email to info@swindonmusiccoop.co.uk detailing the nature of your concern and someone will then contact you to discuss.
What if I have an issue or am unhappy with the service received from the SMC office?
Should you have any issues or concerns regarding an SMC office member, please email info@swindonmusiccoop.co.uk and one of our board members will be in touch to discuss.
Do you offer any funding for lessons?
For information regarding funding for lessons please visit Swindon Music Trust or contact admin@swindonmusictrust.org.uk. Please check eligibility criteria prior to applying for funding. If your child is FSM please check with your child’s school about funding for music lessons.