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Frequently Asked Questions
Maths Owl Groups FAQs
Group lessons are 60-minutes in duration. This includes time for children to settle in, review any home learning, take part in fun and engaging in maths activities, and finish the lesson together in a calm and positive way.
Maths Owl Groups take place after school on Tuesdays and Thursdays at my home in Liskeard. The home learning environment provides a calm, welcoming space where children can learn in small groups, build confidence and enjoy maths.Mondays: 4:00pm – 5:00 pm - Year 3 – Discovering OwlsTuesdays: 4:00pm – 5:00 pm – Year 5 – Exploring Owls 5:15pm – 6:15 pm – Year 6 – Wise OwlsThursdays: 4:00pm – 5:00 pm – Year 4 – Thriving Owls
Maths Owls Groups cost £25 per session, which includes any needed administration fees, communication and resources.The monthly cost is £89 per month – payable September – July.I teach 39 lessons during term time (September to July). To provide consistent monthly payments, the annual cost is easily spread across 11 months. This means some months will include more lessons than others, with no lessons being scheduled in August. This monthly payment secures your child’s place for the academic year and covers all planned Maths Owl Group sessions.
If you would like additional 1-1 lessons during the school holidays or August, these are available as a pay-as-you-go rates, but they need to be paid for at least 48 in advance to secure your slot. Further one to one sessions may be available at other times and these can be booked as 1 off sessions. If you feel your child would benefit more from one-to-one tuition, please contact me to discuss this.1-1 tuition rates:· £25 per 30-minute lesson· £35 for 45-minute lesson· £45 for 60-minute lesson
Invoices are issued monthly and payment is due on the 1st day of each month. Payment can be made by bank transfer, and many families choose to set up a standing order. My bank details will be included on each invoice.
Children are placed into groups according to their current level of understanding, rather than chronological age or school year. This ensures every child receives teaching that is appropriate for their individual needs and helps them to develop confidence, understanding and enjoyment of maths. Instead of naming our groups Year 3, Year 4 or Year 5 etc., but each group has its own unique name. This creates a positive learning environment where children feel comfortable working at the level that best supports their progress. For example, a child in Year 5 may be better placed working at a Year 3 level if that is where they will gain the greatest confidence and make the best progress.
If there is sufficient interest, Golden Key Learning hopes to introduce an additional group called Hatchling Owls. Hatchling Owls is designed for children who would benefit from mathematical strengthening the key foundations before moving on to the Maths Ow Groups, Sessions will focus on developing confidence and securing essential KS1 skills in a calm, supportive environment.
🦉 Hatchling Owls - KS1 LevelBuilding early mathematical understanding through:· Number sense and place value· Counting and comparing numbers· Addition and subtraction· Number bonds· Early multiplication and division· Practical and hands-on learning· Mathematical discussion and exploration· Shape, space and measures· Mathematical language and vocabulary 🦉 Discovering Owls – Year 3 LevelDeveloping confidence through:· Place value and number understanding· Addition and subtraction methods· Multiplication and division strategies· Practical resources and visual approaches· Simple reasoning and problem solving· Shape, space and measures· Money and time· Fractions 🦉 Exploring Owls – Year 4 LevelEncouraging deeper understanding through:· Multiplication and division fluency· Fractions and decimals· Efficient calculation strategies· Mathematical discussion and reasoning· Practical and investigative learning· Times Tables Mastery (up to 12 x 12)· Perimeter and Area· Geometry and Co-ordinates 🦉 Thriving Owls – Year 5 LevelBuilding independence and confidence through:· Multi-step problem solving· Fractions, decimals and percentages· Multiplication and division methods· Investigations and reasoning tasks· Creative and flexible approaches to maths· Geometry and Angles· Perimeter, Area and Volume· Decimals linked to percentages 🦉 Wise Owls – Year 6 LevelDeveloping advanced understanding through:· Complex reasoning and problem solving· Arithmetic fluency· Fractions, decimals and percentages in depth· Ratio, proportion and early algebra· Independent and reflective thinking· Algebra· Statistics (interpretating graphs and Tables)· Reasoning and Problem Solving
🌿 A Supportive and Inclusive ApproachGolden Key Learning welcomes children with a range of learning needs and has extensive experience supporting• SEND and additional needs• Autism and ADHD• Anxiety and barriers to learning• NeurodivergenceSessions are carefully adapted to ensure every child feels:• Supported• Understood• Successful• Confident in their learningAs an Autism Champion with extensive experience teaching children with a range of additional needs, I use flexible, responsive teaching approaches tailored to each child’s individual strengths and needs. I also have Deaf awareness training, and I am developing my skills in British Sign Language (currently obtained Level 2 and currently completing the Level 3 course), helping to create an inclusive and welcoming learning environment for Deaf and hard or hearing children. My aim is for every child to develop confidence, resilience and a positive relationship with maths.
If you decide to withdraw your child from the Maths Owl Groups, please provide one month’s written notice.As monthly payments are spread evenly across the year, I will calculate the number of lessons that have provided against the payments received. A final invoice or refund will then be issued, depending on the balance.If the required notice period is not given, one additional month’s payment will be due.
If your child is unable to attend a lesson, please let me know as soon as possible.As your child’s place in the is reserved exclusively for them, missed lessons and cancellations are non-refundable and cannot be rearranged. In exceptional such as bereavement, I may offer an alternative at my discretion.If I need to cancel a lesson due to illness or unforeseen circumstances, I will offer either a catch-up-lesson or a refund for that lesson. Thank you for your understanding. These policies help ensure the groups can continue to run fairly and consistently for all families.
Yes. I hold an Enhanced DBS certificate which is on the update service and have complete annual safeguarding training. I am a member of The Tutoring Association which has detailed conditions for its members such as references, enhanced DBS and annual safeguarding training.I also have safeguarding policies, and these can be viewed on my website or in person.
1-1 Piano and Theory FAQ's
I offer 30-minute lessons as standard. This, in my experience, is the best lesson length. Occasionally, 45-minute lessons are recommended for students studying music theory in more detail alongside practical piano or working at an intermediate and above level.
30 - minute lessons: £71 per month.45 - minute lessons: £107 per month.Lessons are billed as a fixed monthly fee, payable on the 1st of the month.I teach 39 lessons during term time (September to July). To provide consistent monthly payments, the annual cost is easily spread across 11 months. This means some months will include more lessons than others, with no lessons being scheduled in August.If you would like additional lessons during the school holidays or August, these are available as a pay-as-you-go rates, but they need to be paid for at least 48 in advance to secure your slot.· £20 per 30 - minute lesson· £30 for 45 - minute lesson· £40 for 60 - minute lesson
Invoices are issued monthly and payment is due on the 1st day of each month. Payment can be made by bank transfer, and many families choose to set up a standing order. My bank details will be included on each invoice.
Yes. Regular practice is an important part of learning, so students need access to a piano or keyboard at home between lessons.If you’re just starting out, a good quality digital piano or touch sensitive keyboard with piano sixed (ideally weighted) keys is suitable. If you use a keyboard, you will need to have an instrument with 5 octaves (61 keys) and touch sensitive keys. This means that the harder you touch the keys, the louder the sound is. Weighted keys are also a good choice as these will feel like you are playing a real piano and will be good for developing the technique of piano playing.
I will take children from aged 5 for piano lessons, but as each child is an individual, this is dependent upon each child. When learning the piano in the younger years, I use lots of creative games and additional handheld percussion instruments as this breaks up needing a sustained concentration period.
Little and often is the progress to making good progress. To begin with, I would recommend practising for 5-6 days a week, even if it is only 10-15 minutes.As students become more experienced, practice sessions will become longer depending on their age, ability and goals.Regular practice helps to build confidence, develop good technique and make each lesson more enjoyable and productive.
If you decide to stop piano lessons, I will calculate the number of lessons that have provided against the payments received. A final invoice will then be issued showing either any outstanding balance or any refund due. Pease provide 4 weeks’ written notice to stops lessons.
Trial lessons are available at the following rates:· £20 for 30-minute lesson· £30 for 45-minute lessonPayment is required at least 48 hours before the lesson. An invoice will be sent with payment details.Up to three trial lessons may be booked on a pay-as-you-go basis. If you decide to continue, monthly billing will begin from the following month.
If a student is unable to attend a lesson, please let me know as soon as possible.As your time is reserved exclusively for you, missed lessons and cancellations are not refunded (unless in exceptional circumstances, such as bereavement, and at my discretion). It is the lesson slot that is being reserved, regardless of attendance. If I need to cancel a lesson due to illness or unforeseen circumstances, I will offer either a catch-up-lesson or a refund for that lesson.
Taking exams is entirely optional. I tailor lessons to each student’s interest and goals. Some students enjoy working towards ABRSM graded exams, while other prefer to learn for enjoyment, build confidence, play their favourite pieces and develop their musical skills without taking exams.If a student would like to work towards graded exams, I will discuss this with you and ensure they are fully prepared before entering.
Yes. I hold an Enhanced DBS certificate which is on the update service and have complete annual safeguarding training. I am a member of The Tutoring Association which has detailed conditions for its members such as references, enhanced DBS and annual safeguarding training.I also have safeguarding policies, and these can be viewed on my website or in person.
1-1 Tutoring FAQs
MathematicsEnglish, including phonics, reading and comprehension, spelling, punctuation and grammarSATs preparationOther primary subjects such as science, humanitiesStudy skills and confidence building
I offer 30-minute, 45-minute and 60-minute sessions.
30-minute sessions: £89 per month45-minute sessions: £124 per month60-minute sessions: £160 per monthLessons are billed as a fixed monthly fee, payable on the 1st of the month.I teach 39 lessons during term time (September to July). To provide consistent monthly payments, the annual cost is spread across 11 months. This means some months will include more lessons than others, with no lessons being scheduled in August.Additional sessions during school holidays or August:£25 per 30-minute session£35 per 45-minute session£45 per 60-minute session
Invoices are issued monthly and payment is due on the 1st day of each month. Payment can be made by bank transfer, and many families choose to set up a standing order.
If you decide to stop individual lessons, I will calculate the number of lessons that have provided against the payments received. A final invoice will then be issued showing either any outstanding balance or any refund due.
Trial lessons are available at the following rates:· £20 for 30-minute lesson· £35 for 45-minute lesson· £45 for 60 - minute lessonPayment is required at least 48 hours before the lesson. An invoice will be sent with payment details.Up to three trial lessons may be booked on a pay-as-you-go basis. If you decide to continue, monthly billing will begin from the following month.
If a student is unable to attend a session, please let me know as soon as possible.As your time is reserved exclusively for you, missed sessions and cancellations are not refunded (unless in exceptional circumstances, such as bereavement, and at my discretion).It is the lesson slot that is being reserved, regardless of attendance.If I need to cancel a session due to illness or unforeseen circumstances, I will offer either a catch-up session or a refund for that session.
Yes. I have extensive experience supporting children with a wide range of needs, including autism, ADHD, dyslexia, SEMH needs and emotionally based school avoidance. Please discuss any SEND needs with me in detail and we can work together to ensure that 1-1 sessions are delivered in a way your child can access.
Yes. Parents/Carers are welcome to stay during 1-1 tutoring sessions or leave and return at the end of the session.
Yes. I hold an Enhanced DBS certificate which is on the update service and have complete annual safeguarding training. I am a member of The Tutoring Association which has detailed conditions for its members such as references, enhanced DBS and annual safeguarding training.I also have safeguarding policies, and these can be viewed on my website or in person.
Music Makers Groups FAQs
Music Makers Groups are small, creative music groups designed especially for home-educated children.Sessions provide opportunities for children to explore, create and enjoy music together through practical activities, games, performing, composing, improvising and listening.Children will develop their musical understanding while also building confidence, creativity, teamwork and communication skills.
The groups are designed for children who are home educated and have an interest in music.Music Makers 1 - approximately ages 5-7 yearsMusic Makers 2 - approximately ages 7-11 yearsThe age ranges are approximate, as children develop musical skills at different rates.Groups are kept small, with a maximum of 6 children, allowing children to participate fully while receiving individual encouragement and support.
Sessions are practical, active and varied. Depending on the focus, children may: • Explore rhythm, pulse and tempo• Play and experiment with percussion instruments• Develop listening and musical memory• Explore melody, dynamics and harmony• Take part in musical games and challenges • Create and compose their own music• Improvise and experiment with musical ideas• Work collaboratively with other children• Develop confidence in sharing musical ideas The emphasis is on learning through doing and having fun with music.
No.The groups are suitable for children with a range of musical experience, including complete beginners.Activities can be adapted so that children can participate at their own level. Children who already have musical experience will also be encouraged to develop and extend their skills further.
No.Music reading is not a requirement for joining the groups. Children will develop their musical understanding through a combination of practical activities, listening, playing, creating and exploring music.Where appropriate, musical notation (standard and non-standard) and musical vocabulary will be introduced naturally through the activities.
Music Makers 1: 45 minutesMusic Makers 2: 60 minutesSessions are structured to keep children actively involved while allowing time to explore musical ideas, work creatively and finish together in a positive way.
Music Makers Groups take place on Monday mornings at my home in Liskeard. The home learning environment provides a calm, welcoming space where children can learn in small groups, build confidence and enjoy making and learning about music togetherMondays: 10:00 am – 10:45 am – age approximately 5-7 years Music Makers 1 11:00 am – 112:00 pm – age approximately 7-11 years Music Makers 2
Places are booked in 6-week blocks. Music Makers 1 - £14 per 45 - minutes session6-week block: £84 Music Makers 2 £18 per 60 - minute sessions6-week block: £108Payment is made up front for the 6-week block and are due one week before the first lesson.
Invoices are 2 weeks before the 6-week block is due to commence and payment is due 7 days before the block begins. Please make payment bank transfer.
Keeping groups small means that every child has opportunities to participate, perform, create and contribute.It also allows the session to be responsive to the children attending, while maintaining a calm and supportive learning environment.
I am an experienced primary teacher and music specialist with over 29 years of classroom teaching experience.I have degree in music, Grade 8 piano and cornet and extensive experience in classroom music. The sessions combine strong musical knowledge with an understanding of how children learn best.
Music Makers Groups are creative group music education, rather than individual instrumental lessons.The focus is on developing children's overall musical understanding, creativity and confidence through practical music-making.Children who want to develop a particular instrument, such as piano, can also enquire about individual music lessons through Golden Key Learning.
Sessions draw on key musical concepts and skills, including rhythm, pulse, melody, dynamics, tempo, structure and harmony.However, the sessions are designed specifically for home-educated children and are not simply a traditional school music lesson. Sessions will develop along with the children’s interests and there will be a strong ethos on child led learning, following leads and interests from the children in the group.Activities are practical, creative and designed to encourage children to explore and develop their own musical ideas.
That's absolutely fine.Building confidence is an important part of Music Makers Groups. Children are encouraged to participate at their own pace and are never expected to perform before they are ready.The small-group environment provides opportunities to create, collaborate and share musical ideas in a supportive setting.
Further blocks will be offered where there is sufficient interest.Children can continue developing their musical skills and confidence through new themes, activities and challenges. Further blocks will include new musical skills and activities.Parents will be able to book subsequent blocks if they wish their child to continue. Children already participating will be given first opportunity to join in with the next block
Golden Key Learning welcomes children with a range of learning needs and has extensive experience supporting• SEND and additional needs• Autism and ADHD• Anxiety and barriers to learning• NeurodivergenceSessions are carefully adapted to ensure every child feels:• Supported• Understood• Successful• Confident in their learningAs an Autism Champion with extensive experience teaching children with a range of additional needs, I use flexible, responsive teaching approaches tailored to each child’s individual strengths and needs. I also have Deaf awareness training, and I am developing my skills in British Sign Language (currently obtained Level 2 and currently completing the Level 3 course), helping to create an inclusive and welcoming learning environment for Deaf and hard or hearing children. My aim is for every child to develop confidence, unlock creativity and share enjoyment through music making.
If your child is unable to attend a lesson, please let me know as soon as possible.As your child’s place in the is reserved exclusively for them, missed lessons and cancellations are non-refundable and cannot be rearranged. In exceptional such as bereavement, please discuss this with me.If I need to cancel a lesson due to illness or unforeseen circumstances, I will offer either a catch-up-lesson or a refund for that lesson.
Thank you for your understanding. These policies help ensure our services can continue to run fairly and consistently for all families.
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