Hi there,
I'd like to go back to work as an instrumental teacher. Problem is, the last time I did this - teaching children and adults on a one to one basis and small groups at a college- was 8 years ago and I had 3 children in between and unfortunately was a complete SAHM - not very wise I imagine but that's the situation I'm in now.
Unfortunately most jobs reqire 2 referees.
Before that, I also taught my instrument privately in my or pupils' homes and I'm also a qualified sec. school teacher (the latter is not what I want to do now, only instrumental teaching on one-to-one basis or small groups) but that's an even longer time ago and in another country so I won't be able to trace anyone down, apart from the secondary schools (if they can remember me, that's 10 years ago now...).
I did find the details of the person I reported to at the college (8 yrs ago) and would be able to contact her, but feel a bit silly after such a long time. Would she give a reference, and even if she did, but would it 'count' in the eyes of a prospective new employer?
As for the second referee, would it be better to ask someone I know through the field of instrumental teaching (some former professor? No really, I feel far too old for this?) or someone from a different job I had (office job, also 8 yrs. ago) to demonstrate the usual stuff such as reliabiliy etc. - although it has nothing to do with instrumental teaching.
Sorry I'm feeling so silly but desperate to start again!!
Or: Would it be better just to start teaching again privately first, in my own home (or visiting pupils homes locally) in order to get references from them (or their parents) next year and then apply for jobs at schools? The latter is far more 'official' with regards to job interviews/references, but also tempting. However, if I didn't get any of their jobs because of my long gap in the cv/unsuitable references, would that affect my application negatively if I applied at the same institution later on (in case they had jobs again).
Also, if any instrumental teacher is reading this (which I hope):
When applying for jobs at schools/colleges etc., are you normally required to perform pieces when being interviewed? Not that I can't play any more (I can), but I'd definitely had to get practicing a lot more than I did during the 8 yrs.... And is there rather fierce competition for these jobs nowadays?
If teaching privately: Are you required to be self-employed officially? Do you need police checks and if so how, if you don't belong to an official organisation?
Another very silly question, did you apply for the job first and then look for childcare (nanny/after school clubs?). Sorry for being so daft but at the moment I can't even imagine what happens if I'm suddenly invited for job interviews/find a private pupil. I understand I'd might need someone with short notice, however I can't afford childcare if I don't earn anything.
Any (!) input/thoughts/advice gratefully received, even if you can't answer all my questions but just one or some of them!!