Hobley Music School – Terms & Conditions

Last updated: January 2026 (amended to include Group Lessons and revised pricing)

These Terms and Conditions apply to all pupils and families enrolled at Hobley Music School ("HMS"). They should be read alongside the information published on our website, including lesson pages, term dates and tuition fees. Where possible, these terms reflect and build upon our existing policies, updated to include group lesson pathways.

1. Membership Structure

Hobley Music School operates on a monthly membership model. Membership secures a reserved weekly lesson place and access to HMS learning resources. Membership continues until cancelled in line with the notice period outlined below.

Lesson Pathways

Group Membership

  • £70 per month

  • One 30‑minute lesson per week

  • Small group format (maximum 4 pupils)

Premium 1:1 Membership (from January 2026)

  • £114 per month

  • One 30‑minute individual lesson per week

Membership Includes

  • Weekly tuition during published term dates

  • Structured curriculum and progression pathway

  • Lesson notes and home learning support

  • Performance opportunities, concerts and events

  • Ongoing assessment and tutor feedback

  • Access to perform at our annual concerts (Christmas and Summer)

  • Access to Youtube Recording Weeks.

Membership fees are charged monthly and are not calculated on a per‑lesson basis.

2. Term Dates and Lesson Calendar

Lessons follow the Hobley Music School academic calendar, which broadly mirrors local school term dates. Term dates are published on our website and may vary slightly year to year.

Membership fees are spread evenly across the teaching year to provide consistent monthly payments, including months with fewer teaching weeks. No refunds are issued for school holidays or planned closures that fall within the published calendar.

Hobley Music School does not charge tuition fees during August.

3. Group Lessons

  • Group sizes and lesson structure are set by the school to ensure a positive and effective learning environment.

  • Pupils are placed into groups based on age, ability, instrument and learning needs.

  • Group places are limited and subject to availability.

  • Behaviour standards apply at all times to ensure lessons remain safe, respectful and productive.

If a pupil’s behaviour significantly disrupts learning, Hobley Music School reserves the right to review their group placement and discuss alternative arrangements with parents, which may include moving groups or transitioning to a different lesson pathway.

4. Premium 1:1 Lessons

  • 1:1 lesson places are allocated based on tutor availability.

  • While we aim for consistency, we cannot guarantee a specific tutor long‑term.

  • Premium 1:1 places are limited and may be prioritised for pupils requiring individual support or following an advanced pathway.

5. Cancellations & Make-Up Credits

  • Cancellations must be made through the parent/pupil portal at least 24 hours before the lesson.

  • If cancelled within this timeframe, a make-up credit is issued automatically.

  • Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the lesson are forfeited.

  • Make-up credits:

    • Can be used with your tutor on another day or time.

    • Expire each August (all credits reset).

    • A maximum of two credits may be held at once.

  • Available lesson slots may be booked via our online portal. A 24-hour booking cut-off applies: bookings must be completed at least 24 hours before the scheduled start time.

  • If you cannot arrange a make-up with your tutor, email info@hobleymusicschool.co.uk to request a make-up with another tutor (this cannot be done through the portal).

  • If a tutor cancels a lesson, we will either:

    • Provide a make-up credit

    • Arrange a supply teacher.

    • Refunds are not offered.

  • Late arrivals: Lessons end at the scheduled time and cannot be extended or credited.

  • No-shows: If a pupil fails to attend without notice, the lesson is forfeited. Two consecutive no-shows may result in losing the regular slot.

  • Communication: Advance cancellations must be made through the portal to qualify for make-up credit. Last-minute messages can be sent by whatsapp / email if urgent.

6. Tutor Absences and School Cancellations

If a tutor is unavailable or Hobley Music School needs to cancel a lesson:

  • A suitably qualified cover tutor will be provided where possible, or

  • A catch‑up lesson or credit will be issued

We do not normally refund individual lessons where a reasonable alternative is offered.

7. Pricing and Fee Reviews

Membership fees are reviewed periodically, usually on an annual basis. Any changes will be communicated in advance with reasonable notice.

Current Fees

  • Group Membership: £70 per month

  • Premium 1:1 Membership: £114 per month (from January 2026)

8. Payments

  • Membership fees are payable monthly by direct debit or standing order.

  • Payments are due regardless of attendance.

  • Failed or missed payments must be settled promptly.

  • Repeated non‑payment may result in suspension or termination of lessons.

9. Notice Period and Cancellation

To stop lessons, notify us before the next billing cycle (by the 25th of the month).

  • If notice is given before the 25th, lessons end at the end of that month and the Direct Debit is cancelled.

  • If notice is given after the 25th, the next month’s payment will still be taken, and lessons will continue until the end of that following month.

  • To cancel, email info@hobleymusicschool.co.uk to request our online cancellation form.

  • The School may also terminate lessons, with reasonable notice, for reasons such as non-payment, repeated absences, or inappropriate behaviour.

10. Switching Between Lesson Pathways

  • Pupils are not moved automatically between group and 1:1 lessons.

  • Families may request a change of pathway, subject to availability and suitability.

  • Pricing will adjust from the agreed change date.

  • Free or trial group sessions may be offered at the school’s discretion.

11. Safeguarding and Conduct

Hobley Music School follows strict safeguarding procedures at all times. All staff are DBS checked and appropriately trained.

Pupils are expected to behave respectfully toward staff and other students. Persistent disruptive, unsafe or inappropriate behaviour may result in suspension or termination of membership.

12. Data Protection

Personal data is held and processed in line with UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act. Information is used solely for educational and administrative purposes and is not shared with third parties without lawful reason.

13. Photography and Media

From time to time, photos or videos may be taken during lessons, rehearsals or events for educational or promotional purposes. Parents may opt out at any time by informing the office in writing.

14. Liability

Hobley Music School holds appropriate public and employer’s liability insurance. While all reasonable care is taken, students attend lessons at their own risk.

15. Acceptance of Terms

By enrolling and maintaining membership at Hobley Music School, parents and students confirm that they have read, understood and agreed to these Terms and Conditions.