Writing A Studio Policy

Each year, I find myself re-evaluating my studio policy, tweaking it and adjusting it as a result of things that I have learned throughout the year. When younger siblings were hanging out during older siblings’ piano lessons and becoming disruptive, I added a new policy about having no siblings present during lessons. When parents were cancelling piano lessons regularly in order to make sure their kids didn’t miss a volleyball game, I instilled a non-negotiable monthly fee regardless of missed lessons (totally changed my life, by the way!).  Having a studio policy in place to give students once they inquire about lessons — and then enroll at your studio– is invaluable. At the end of each school year, I adjust my policy and re-distribute it to all current students with any updates.

The trick for me in developing a studio policy that works is making sure that I don’t have so many rules and policies in place that it seems overwhelming to students, and being brief and concise in the way I explain them. Having a policy in place protects me as a teacher. If a student or family ever questions something, I remind them that it is part of my studio policy.

Here are some things to consider as you develop your studio policy:

·        What types of “housekeeping” rules do I want to have in place? If my studio is at home, do I want kids ringing the doorbell when they come for lessons? Do I want shoes to be removed? Are parents allowed to attend children’s lessons?

·        What types of non-negotiable expectations do I have of my students? Are there practicing regulations? Performance requirements? Are there consequences if these expectations are not met?

·        Will I have a termination policy? Are students required to give a certain amount of advanced notice if they decide to “quit”lessons?

·        What type of payment structures will I have in place? Do I charge a flat monthly rate at the beginning or end of the month, or charge per lesson? Are there expectations for other fees throughout the year, such as music or costumes or event fees? Do I charge a late fee when payments are not made on time?

·        What is your cancellation policy? Are make-up lessons permitted? If so, how frequently?