Understanding the Importance of Our 4 Week Notice Policy at BSM and ASM

At Bishopbriggs School of Music (BSM) and Ayr School of Music (ASM), we are dedicated to nurturing not only musical talent but also the financial wellbeing of our tutors. Most of our instructors are young, ambitious individuals starting their careers. They are not just teachers; they are working towards personal goals, like buying their first car or renting their own apartment.

One essential element that supports our tutors in reaching these life objectives is our 4 weeks notice policy. This policy safeguards their income and ensures a stable foundation for their professional journeys. In this blog post, we will explore the significance of this policy and its effects on both tutors and students.

The Role of Tutors at BSM and ASM

At BSM and ASM, tutors operate as self-employed professionals running their own businesses. This flexibility offers advantages, but it also presents challenges, especially regarding financial security.

Self-employed tutors do not have a guaranteed paycheck, which makes a consistent income crucial. Many depend heavily on the number of lessons scheduled each week. For instance, if a tutor loses a student unexpectedly, they may face a sharp drop in earnings, possibly losing 20% to 50% of their monthly income depending on their student load.

Our 4 weeks notice policy helps tutors manage these challenges by giving them the time they need to adjust their schedules and attract new students.

Why 4 Weeks Notice Matters

When a student opts to stop lessons, notifying the school just one week in advance can severely impact a tutor's income. In fact, research shows that nearly 30% of music instructors face financial strain due to unexpected cancellations. With only one week’s notice, tutors have limited time to fill that slot, which can lead to stress and uncertainty.

Providing a full month of notice gives tutors the chance to adapt. This additional time not only secures their finances but also contributes significantly to their peace of mind.

Here’s how the policy directly affects tutors:

1. Income Protection: The foremost benefit is that it allows tutors to find replacement students, thus shielding their earnings. For instance, losing a single weekly student can result in a loss of around £45to £90 in a month, highlighting the financial urgency of having enough notice.

   
   

2. Planning and Stability: Stability is essential for any profession, especially for young tutors just starting out. This policy enables them to better predict their earnings and make future commitments, like covering monthly rent or bills, without anxiety.

   
   

3. Professional Growth: When tutors feel secure, they can focus on refining their teaching methods. This growth benefits students as well, as they receive high-quality instruction from tutors who are not preoccupied with financial worries.

   
   

Implications for Students

Although the 4 weeks notice policy primarily benefits our tutors, students also gain from it. When tutors feel secure, they can provide a reliable and uninterrupted learning environment.

Students experience:

1. Consistent Learning: A clear notice policy means that tutors can maintain a regular schedule. For example, students enrolled in programs that require weekly lessons are less likely to experience gaps, resulting in smoother progression in their music education.

   
   

2. Stronger Tutor Relationships: Consistency fosters better relationships between students and tutors. When tutors can fill vacancies well in advance, students can continue their musical journey with familiar instructors, enhancing their learning experience.

   
   

3. Greater Availability for Lessons: Allowing tutors time to replace departing students keeps a healthy roster of teachers. This means more options for students, which is crucial in meeting their diverse learning needs.

   
   

Open Communication

Maintaining open and honest communication is vital for both students and tutors. Tutors should feel at ease discussing any changes in their teaching schedules, while students are encouraged to communicate their intentions regarding lessons as soon as possible.

A collaborative atmosphere is beneficial for everyone involved. It ensures that students receive top-notch education and tutors experience the respect and stability they deserve. The 4 weeks notice policy lays the groundwork for this collaboration, fostering a culture of mutual understanding.

Final Thoughts

The 4 weeks notice policy at Bishopbriggs School of Music and Ayr School of Music is crucial for nurturing a secure environment for both our self-employed tutors and our students. It not only protects tutors as they pursue their career goals but also establishes a stable learning atmosphere for aspiring musicians.

Both students and tutors play vital roles in this ecosystem. By understanding and respecting this policy, we can create a harmonious and productive experience for our community. As we continue to support musical talent and professional development, we invite everyone to recognize the value behind this policy and how it ultimately benefits us all.