Keys Foundation Course (Ages 5–9)

Our Foundation Course is the starting point for children beginning their musical journey with us. It has been carefully refreshed to offer longer lessons, more support, and clearer progression, while keeping learning enjoyable, practical, and confidence-building. The aim of the Foundation course is to give children the skills to enter our academy programme, where they can be challenged and inspired by our fabulous and varied teaching staff.

Lessons take place weekly in 1-hour sessions, with up to 8 children in each class. Lessons are taught by Keys leader Jeni, another experienced piano teacher and an additional helper, where needed, using both our upstairs and downstairs studios. This allows children to have access to their own piano, work in small groups, receive individual attention, and stay fully engaged throughout the session.

Phase 1: Wednesday 4.30pm or Saturday 9.30am

Phase 2: Thursday 4.30pm or Saturday 10.30am

Phase 3/4: Wednesday 5.30pm, Thursday 5.30pm or Saturday 11.30am.

Scroll to the bottom of this page to book.

The Foundation Course is divided into structured stages that support steady, individual progress.

Children begin in Phase 1 as beginners, then move into Phase 2, and on through Phases 3 and 4 as their skills and confidence develop. Children move up when they are ready, rather than waiting for the whole group, so no one is rushed or held back.

At the end of each phase, children are awarded an End of Phase Certificate to celebrate their progress and achievements.

Once children have completed the Foundation Course, they are ready to move into our Academy Programme.

 

The Foundation Course is taught by Jeni, who is a qualified primary school teacher with a music degree, a performance diploma in piano, and specialist training in piano teaching. She is also a composer and writes a large amount of original music specifically for the children in the course.

Lessons are carefully structured to give children a wide range of musical experiences. Sessions include piano playing, listening, singing, games, and activities that develop both technical and theoretical understanding, all delivered in an age-appropriate and supportive way.

Children are sometimes encouraged to perform for each other, but only if they feel confident. No child is ever pressured to perform.

 

The foundation course fees are £16.50 per lesson.

Fees are paid in a block, for each half term, scroll down to see available options.

What ages is the Foundation Course for?

The course is suitable for children aged 5–9, typically those in Years 1–4 at primary school.

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Which level do I book?

If your child is between 5 and 9 years old and has never played before, please book any phase 1 session. If they have a little experience, it’s probably better to email us at info@keyspianoschool.com to discuss what would be best.

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Do parents need to play an instrument?

No. Children do not need musically trained parents. We simply ask that parents help with structuring practice time at home and encouraging consistency.

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How much practice is expected at home?

Children are given clear, manageable tasks to complete at home.
In Phase 1, expected practice is around 5–10 minutes, three times per week.
By Phase 4, this increases gradually to around 15 minutes, four to five times per week.

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How do parents know what to practise?

We share information through WhatsApp groups, including explanations, photos, and short videos to support home practice. We also share phase expectations with parents so you know what is required for your child to move on to the next stage.

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What if we miss a lesson?

All phase lessons are the same across the week. If your child cannot attend their usual session, they may attend an alternative lesson for the same phase, subject to availability. We are unable to offer refunds for missed sessions.

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How long do children usually stay in the Foundation Course?

Children typically spend between 18 months and 3 years in the Foundation Course. This depends on their starting age and how much practice they are able to do between lessons.

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How big are the classes?

Classes are limited to 8 children, which is the number of pianos available. This ensures every child has regular access to an instrument during the lesson.

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What happens after the Foundation Course?

Once children are independent in their practice and have developed confidence with music reading, they move into our Academy Programme. At this stage, we carefully match them with an appropriate teacher for one-to-one lessons.

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Can parents stay during lessons?

Parents are welcome to wait in our upstairs waiting area, which has WiFi available for families who wish to stay on site.

BOOKING INFO

If you’d like to book a one-off taster lesson, you can do that here. 

https://tidycal.com/keyspianoschool/one-off-foundation-session

Unfortunately we can’t offer free sessions.