Lessons Code of Conduct

Effective Date: 21 January 2026

Last Updated: 21 January 2026

1. Introduction

Welcome to AberMusic! This Code of Conduct outlines the expectations and responsibilities for students, parents/guardians, and tutors for both in-person lessons at the AberMusic Studio and online lessons, to ensure a safe, respectful, and productive learning environment for everyone.

By booking and attending lessons with AberMusic (in-studio or online), you agree to follow this Code of Conduct.

2. Arrival and Preparation

To help your lesson run smoothly and make the most of your time with your tutor, please follow the relevant guidance below.

2.1 Studio (In-person)

  • Arrive promptly for your scheduled lesson time.
  • If you arrive early, please use the waiting area quietly, keeping noise to a minimum so lessons can continue uninterrupted.
  • Please ensure you have everything you need (instrument/accessories/sheet music as applicable) and are ready to begin on time.

2.2 Online

  • Be logged in and ready 5 minutes early (camera/microphone checked and the platform open).
  • Do an equipment check before the lesson (camera, microphone, speakers/headphones, and the chosen video-call platform).
  • Ensure your instrument is ready (set up, in good working order, and tuned where applicable).

AberMusic is not responsible for lesson disruptions caused by preventable preparation issues on the student’s end.

3. The Learning Environment

AberMusic aims to provide a friendly, focused, and professional learning experience. Please follow the relevant guidance below.

3.1 Studio (In-person)

  • Please respect the studio space, including other students, tutors, and neighbours.
  • Treat all studio equipment and facilities with care and follow the tutor’s instructions on set-up and use.
  • Keep personal belongings tidy and out of walkways to help maintain a safe environment.

3.2 Online

  • Join from a quiet, well-lit space so the tutor can clearly see you and your instrument/posture.
  • Use a stable camera position that allows the tutor to view your hands, instrument, and posture as needed.
  • No unnecessary distractions (e.g., TVs, games, notifications, or other devices) and minimal interruptions from household members or pets.
  • Under-18s must not attend from bedrooms or other private/isolated rooms (see Safeguarding and Supervision).

4. Safeguarding and Supervision

AberMusic is committed to the safety and wellbeing of all students, particularly children and vulnerable adults.

4.1 Studio (In-person)

  • Children under 12: A parent/guardian should remain on-site or nearby for the duration of the lesson (for example, in the waiting area or close enough to return quickly if needed).
  • Parents/guardians should ensure AberMusic has up-to-date emergency contact details and any relevant medical or additional needs information.

4.2 Online

  • For students under 18, a parent or responsible adult must be present in the home during online lessons and within earshot at all times.
  • Location requirements for under-18s: Online lessons for under-18s must take place in a public/living area of the home (e.g., living room, kitchen, dining room, or other shared space), not in bedrooms or other private/isolated rooms.
  • Tutors will not request private contact with students outside of official AberMusic communication channels.
  • Any safeguarding concerns should be reported immediately to AberMusic.

If a student or tutor feels uncomfortable at any point during a lesson, they have the right to end the session immediately and report the incident to AberMusic.

5. Health and Hygiene (In-person)

To help keep everyone safe and well at the AberMusic Studio:

  • Please use hand sanitiser (or wash hands) before using shared instruments or equipment.
  • Please do not attend in-person if you are feeling unwell or may be contagious.
  • Where possible, if you are unwell we encourage you to switch to an online lesson instead (subject to availability and any applicable booking terms).

6. Professionalism and Behaviour

AberMusic aims to provide a friendly, focused, and professional learning experience. For both studio and online lessons, all participants must:

  • Communicate respectfully and appropriately (no abusive, discriminatory, threatening, or sexual language or behaviour).
  • Follow the tutor’s reasonable instructions to support effective learning.
  • Dress appropriately for a professional lesson environment (suitable for being in a studio and/or on camera).
  • Treat each other with courtesy, patience, and professionalism, including parents/guardians when present.

AberMusic may end a lesson if behaviour falls below these standards, particularly where safeguarding is a concern.

7. Equipment and Property

  • Please handle instruments, studio equipment, and property with care (whether your own or AberMusic’s).
  • Report any damage or breakages to your tutor or AberMusic as soon as possible.
  • Students/parents may be responsible for repair or replacement costs where damage is caused by misuse or failure to follow reasonable instructions.

8. Technical Issues (Online)

Online lessons rely on technology and sometimes problems happen. If a connection drops or audio/video fails:

  • First, try rejoining the call using the same link/platform.
  • If that doesn’t work, restart your device/app and try again.
  • If issues continue, check your internet connection (e.g., move closer to the router or switch to wired connection where possible).
  • If you still cannot reconnect, contact your teacher as soon as possible and they will help agree the best next steps.

Where a lesson is disrupted by technical issues outside AberMusic’s control, we will act reasonably and fairly, taking into account the time lost and what can be recovered within the scheduled lesson time.

9. Media and Recording

AberMusic lessons (studio and online) must not be recorded or shared without permission.

  • Please refer to AberMusic’s Media Policy for the full rules on images, audio, video, and sharing content.
  • No unauthorised recording: Students, parents/guardians, and any other third parties must not record (audio or video), screenshot, or livestream any part of a lesson without prior written consent from AberMusic and the tutor.
  • Any authorised recordings (where agreed in writing) are for personal educational use only and may not be shared, distributed, or published without written permission from AberMusic.

10. Privacy and Data Protection

AberMusic is committed to protecting your personal data in accordance with UK GDPR and applicable data protection laws. For details on how we collect, use, and store your information, please refer to our Privacy Policy at abermusic.wales.

11. Breach of Code of Conduct

Failure to comply with this Code of Conduct may result in:

  • A verbal or written warning from AberMusic.
  • Suspension or termination of lessons without refund.
  • Reporting to relevant authorities in cases involving safeguarding concerns or illegal activity.

AberMusic reserves the right to refuse service to any individual who repeatedly or seriously breaches this Code of Conduct.

12. Changes to This Code of Conduct

AberMusic reserves the right to update or amend this Code of Conduct at any time. Any changes will be communicated to students and parents via email or through the student portal. Continued participation in online lessons following any updates constitutes acceptance of the revised Code of Conduct.

13. Contact Us

If you have any questions or concerns regarding this Code of Conduct, please contact us:

AberMusic
Unit 11 & 12, Market Hall, Great Darkgate Street, Aberystwyth, Wales, SY23 1DW
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 01970 868 368
Website: https://abermusic.wales

By attending a lesson with AberMusic (in-studio or online), you confirm that you have read, understood, and agree to abide by this Studio and Online Code of Conduct.