I have a simple, monthly flat-rate policy that is strictly time reserved and I make it clear to each person that contacts me for lessons that I don't reschedule lessons for any reason. If they have a problem with that or don't agree, I don't put them on the schedule. I highly recommend every private music teacher do this. BTW, I really like your channel content and your approach to teaching. I was able to start my 5-year-old grandaughter piano lessons through the information I gleaned from your videos. Thank you! Sorry, I won't get to watch this episode, for now, I have a student starting in a few minutes.
This is so helpful! I've had many problems over the years regarding make up lessons. I think you are correct that offering them sends the wrong message about what they are paying for. I've always billed by the month and I refer to the payment as tuition so that my parents understand they're paying for a weekly spot on my schedule. All this said, my policy still says I will try and offer make ups provided with 24 hours notice, but it's not guaranteed. I think it may be time to make the full switch to no make ups though. I have about 40 to 45 students currently, and the only way I will be able to take on more is by filling up the 3 or 4 gaps I leave open for make ups.
Do you have any examples that you put in writing a new policy? I'm not sure of what language is appropriate and professional. Do I email it or do I give it to them individually on paper? I wanted to start this new policy after my Christmas break. Do you think that's too soon? I do 40 lessons over 12 months and have 12 weeks off throughout the year for holidays, etc.
Great topic and great video! I love this concept of no makeups and am considering it. I found your teaching site a noticed that you do not mention "no makeups" explicitly in your policy: "If a student will be missing their lesson for any reason they should inform me by text or email with as much notice as possible so that we can organise a video or online lesson" That doesn't seem to mesh with what you say in this video. Did you make a change? Do parents get the policy like it is, and understand that what it really means in "no makeups"?
Well, no, parents would not have a clue what “no makeups” means. They can avail of a video (sent via our app, Vivid Practice) or online lesson (on Zoom) if they wish so that is still our policy. It doesn’t mention rescheduling as I don’t need to say what we don’t do. I explain it more explicitly at their first meeting with me.
