Parent Direct Payment (PDP) Scheme

Use this link to sign up for lessons in school via Parental Direct Payment Scheme

The Parental Direct Payment scheme allows parents to pay the Music Service directly for instrumental and vocal tuition. The lessons are delivered in school.

•  Lessons are usually delivered in small groups and are a minimum of 20 minutes
• Individual lessons are also available
• Regular communication and updates on progress
• Students will need to provide their own instrument (hire available)
• Students have access to online resources to support their learning through Charanga YUMU
• New students able to start lessons throughout the year (subject to teacher availability)
• Lessons can only be cancelled at the end of a full term providing 6 weeks’ notice has been received
• Online lessons are available to students outside of school hours

Costs (per student per lesson)

Group (max 4 students) £10.00

20 min individual £15.00

30 min individual £17.00

FAQs

How do I apply for lessons?
Use the link above. An automated email will be issued to confirm your application has been received and your child is now on the waiting list. Please allow a few weeks for lessons to be organised and we will do our best to fulfil your request. (Lessons are subject to teacher availability).

What instruments are most suitable for my child’s age group?
To start lessons on brass and most woodwind instruments, your child will need to have their adult top front teeth. For other instruments children can start younger and smaller sized instruments are available. Some types of instruments are available to loan free of charge. Please contact us for further information about instrument choice.

How long will my child’s group lesson be?
With groups of 2 the lesson will be 20 minutes.
With groups of 3 or 4, lessons will be 30 minutes.
When a group lesson is not possible (as there is only one pupil) then we’ll contact you to discuss alternatives.

How can I find out about what music is going on in my child’s school?
Many schools are proud of their musical opportunities for pupils and often have details on their school website. You can also contact your child’s school directly and arrange to speak to the Headteacher or Music Coordinator.

Where can I find out more about Music Centres?
Please visit www.lancashiremusichub.co.uk/site/parents/music-centres-and-groups. You can arrange to visit a Music Centre by contacting the Head of Centre.

Is there any help available with tuition fees?
If your child is eligible for Pupil Premium, you may be able to access this funding for music tuition. Please discuss this directly with your school. If the school has agreed to support the lesson, they will register your child’s application. More advanced students can also apply for help with tuition fees to organisations such as Awards for Young Musicians or Future Talent

Can my child hire an instrument?
Instruments can be hired each year (subject to availability). Instruments are collected (and returned) from our warehouse in Chorley and are your responsibility for the duration of the hire. The full list of instruments and payment options are shown on page 2.

Contact Instrument and Warehouse Distribution Team on
Tel. 01257 517127 or email:
lmsinstruments@lancashire.gov.uk

What if my child can’t come to a lesson?
Please let us know if your child is going to be absent in advance if you can by emailing play.music@lancashire.gov.uk

Lessons missed due to short term illness or cancellation by the pupil including forgotten instruments cannot be refunded. If the teacher or school has to cancel a lesson, the lesson will either be rescheduled within the same term or credited from your next invoice.

How do I know how my child is getting on?
Teachers will keep in touch through Charanga YUMU. You and your child will be able to log on to keep a track of resources and progress

Exams?
If your child would like to take an exam, please contact the teacher, there are many options available.

How do I find out about other musical opportunities for my child?
We have a parents/carers email newsletter to keep you up to date with musical opportunities, advice and recommendations to support your child’s musical development. Sign up here.

What if we want to stop lessons?
Lessons can stop at the end of a full term, (December, March or July) providing you give us 6 weeks’ notice in writing to play.music@lancashire.gov.uk

Full Terms & Conditions are here