General


  • Generally our pupils range in age from 6-18 years old, (first and second level education). We also teach adults for the ATCL and Dip.ABRSM DIPLOMA providing they are if the required standard.
  • Pupils are expected to practice and listen to assigned music at least 5 times each week, and preferably every day. Violin lessons produce meaningful results when student and parent follow the prescribed course of study in good faith.
  • The Kilkenny Violin Studio is committed to providing the best possible service in the long term. In order to facilitate this, it is necessary for us to meet with all new prospective pupils and parents to firstly establish suitability for violin tuition and our programme.  
  • The Kilkenny Violin Studio reserves the right not to enrol or re enrol students if we feel that the student isnt benefitting from our programme. 
  • Pupils are formally enrolled when fees are paid in full.
  • The Kilkenny Violin Studio is committed to an educational philosophy that has been formulated over years of training and experience. This philosophy places the musical development of each and every pupil, regardless of age, at the forefront. All teaching material and repertoire is prescribed with a pedagogical goal that is carefully designed for optimal progress for each and every pupil. 'We do not simply just go onto the next piece or next exam!' Whilst Music Exams are useful, only as an independent assessment for the pupil, they are not central to a musical education. Enjoyment and development comes first!
  • All pupils are re enrolled on a termly basis. Re enrolment is based entirely on satisfactory progress and timely payment of fees.
  • Pupils may not enter for music competitions or exams without the teacher's concent.
  • The Tuition fee holds your time slot open throughout the term and is required in full whether or not the pupil attends class. Tuition fees are payable termly. 
  • All fees must be paid in full by the fourth lesson of each term. 
  • Fees are worked out for a 35 week teaching year. This fee is then divided by 3 to give a termly fee. This means that the fee for each term is exactly the same.
  • Payment methods are cash and cheque only. 


Cancellation of lessons

Lessons cancelled by the teacher will be rescheduled at a mutually convenient time, or credit will be given towards next terms tuition. Lessons cancelled by the pupil are not refunded or rescheduled. However if the teacher has another cancellation slot, the teacher generally, may offer this time to accommodate if the pupil cannot attend their assigned lesson time.


Additional requirements:

The student is required to provide the following:

1. Violin set up which included the violin, bow, violin case, shoulder rest and rosin (the violin set-up can be purchased  from a music shop. The studio has an instrument loan scheme for new beginners for their first year.

2. Music stand

3. Notebook

4. Binder for music

Additional fees may include: Sheet music and books, Music Theory materials and recital fees, when appropriate.


Duty of Care

 Policies & Safeguarding


At Kilkenny Violin Studio, the safety, dignity, and well-being of every student is of the highest importance. I am committed to providing a safe and supportive environment where children can learn and thrive.


Garda Vetting

• I am fully Garda Vetted under the National Vetting Bureau Acts 2012–2016.

• I have maintained continuous vetting clearance through my teaching roles since 2018, including both school-based and private teaching.


Safeguarding Practice


My approach to safeguarding follows the principles of Children First: National Guidance for the Protection and Welfare of Children (2017). This means:

• Safe environment: Lessons take place in a dedicated teaching space designed for comfort and security.

• Parental presence: Parents/guardians are welcome to sit in or remain nearby during lessons.

• Professional conduct: Communication with students is always appropriate, respectful, and transparent. Any out-of-lesson communication is with parental knowledge and consent.

• Physical guidance: Any physical contact (for example, adjusting violin posture or bow hold) is limited, explained, and only for clear teaching purposes.


Child Protection

• As a sole practitioner, I act as my own Designated Liaison Person (DLP) for any child protection concerns.

• If I ever become aware of a child protection concern, I will act in accordance with Tusla’s reporting procedures.

• I keep up to date with safeguarding legislation and guidance to ensure best practice in child welfare.


Review


This safeguarding approach is reviewed regularly and updated in line with legislation and best practice.