Singing lessons and CRB checks.

[queenceleste]

We're just considering giving ds some singing lessons as a present from some relatives. I've found a good teacher but I'm wondering about the etiquette of asking about CRB.
Obviously I should simply ask, but feel a bit embarrassed to do so. Also this teacher belongs to a Musical association. If I ring them to check his crb status, will they tell him?
Pathetic of me I know, I just wonder if I should just ask him himself! I just never have before because ds has never had one on one teaching before like this.

seeker - just to reassure you, you don't actually need teaching qualifications to be a private music teacher. The most important thing is that you are happy with their approach and feel comfortable with them. Don't feel bad - my DH rarely gets asked for ANY information about him and he has been teaching for 7 years.

We just went along - we liked him. I sat in on a lesson and liked the way he taught and that was that - she's been going to him for 5 years now! I never think about checking up on anyone - and, actually, I'm glad I don't and I will continue not to!

I think the best thing is to ask them for another parent to ring you to give a ref

DS was having violin lessons with suzuki method so we had to be there too so we learnt and the male teacher totally was creepy with him and so we left ~ he was part of the county music school so having him part of a music school doens't always count iyswim

Go on gut instinct too

good luck

What about him joining a choir?

Individuals aren't allowed to apply for CRB checks (unlike the old police check) so it must have been done via an agency. I happen to have one but that's through the university for a different role.

Qualifications and CRB checks do not a music teacher make ... the ability to engage with young children and teach does.

You can do some good work with 7-year-olds but as others have said, a choir or group is a better bet, perhaps with 1 or 2 top up lessons.

At 8 I would be expecting to be able to stay with him. If you stay all the time then a CRB check is not needed.

I wouldn't be offended though. I think most parents presume that because I work in schools I am okay.