Frequently asked questions - FAQs
What is required to take the training?
- An email address and access to the Internet are required, since the course is completed online.
- While a music degree is not required; you must pass a vocal review that involves the memorisation and singing of several prescribed songs unaccompanied and in a range appropriate for young children. The goal of the vocal review is to ensure that each candidate at least has the potential to lead a class in song. If there are weak areas in the singing voice, the mentor will instruct on how to build upon and correct these areas.
- A love of children and an interest in nurturing a child’s love of music
How does training work?
- Training begins approximately two weeks from date of purchase.
- You will be assigned a mentor, who is a master Kindermusik educator, and placed into a Learning Group of 15 – 25 students, often from all over the world!
- While the course is structured, you still work “on your own time” – the time most convenient to you – to complete at least one lesson each week.
- The course is split into the following three phases of support:
- You’ll be licensed to teach within the first eight to ten weeks of training provided all required assignments have been completed. During these weeks you will focus on learning the Kindermusik philosophy, understanding the child at different stages of development up to age 7, setting goals for incorporating Kindermusik in your life, learning to teach at least 3 Kindermusik curricula (you choose what you wish to begin teaching), and applying for a license;
- If you will be teaching on your own, you should take part in our business course, Business Basics, at no extra charge. Business Basics will give you the information and guidelines you need to start your own small business. Further information relevant to the UK will be provided once you have licensed.
- Support from Kindermusik continues through the Teacher’s Lounge at www.kindermusik.com and the local UK educators’ email loop where you can share and learn from hundreds of Kindermusik educators as you teach! You will also be assigned to a local Kindermusik educator rep who arranges support meetings for educators in the local community.
- Fundamentals requires an average of 3-4 hours per week to complete the coursework. The amount of time you spend will vary based on your individual needs and how easily you absorb the content of the course.
- You will have several opportunities to interact “live” with your mentor and classmates via teleconference and online chat sessions.
- You will have opportunities for practice teaching and where possible, you are encouraged to connect with local Kindermusik educators for support and guidance.
How much does Fundamentals Training cost?
- Training is a remarkably low investment of $399 US dollars Including shipment and VAT this is around £330 sterling (Jan 09 exchange rate) The VAT part of the payment (ca £24) will be charged as a separate invoice from Fedex. A payment plan is also available where you can pay in 4 installments with an additional admin fee of $21 (£14)
Are there any other fees ?
- To maintain your status as a licensed Kindermusik educator, there is an annual fee of $85/yr (£58), though this is currently free for the first year. Since Kindermusik is copyrighted, one cannot teach or promote the programme without a current license issued by Kindermusik International.
- If you are setting up your own programme you will need to make some purchases of teaching materials, instruments and marketing materials once you have completed your training. Educators usually spend about £800 to £1000 in their first year (including their training) which is very reasonable for a business start up.
How do I find out more and where can I register?
- Please call the Kindermusik UK Area Developer Vanessa Webb on 01276 62407.If you are ready to register for the training you will need to provide payment via a Visa or Mastercard credit card. It is up to you to initiate payment via the Kindermusik web store for teaching materials when you are ready to start teaching.
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