The Cottage Classroom: Policies & Guidelines
Guidance for in-person and online lessons
Welcome to The Cottage Classroom!
I’m committed to providing a supportive, engaging, and structured learning experience for every child. These guidelines help ensure that sessions run smoothly and that expectations are clear for everyone.
Where & How Lessons Take Place
• In-person sessions take place at The Cottage Classroom. I do not travel to students’ homes.
• Online lessons are delivered via Google Meet. To get the most out of lessons, I recommend using a fully charged laptop or desktop with a stable internet connection.
• For online sessions, any resources will be emailed in advance for printing if needed. I am unable to deliver materials in person.
2. Health & Wellbeing (In-Person Sessions)
• To keep everyone well, I kindly ask that children do not attend if they are poorly, especially if they have:
•A high temperature
• Vomiting or diarrhoea (please wait at least 48 hours after the last episode before returning)
• Any other contagious illness
If a child arrives unwell, we may need to reschedule the session in line with the cancellation policy.
The learning space is just for students—siblings or additional adults can’t attend unless we’ve discussed it in advance, however the lounge is available for parents who wish to stay.
Please note, that I do not offer childminding as part of my services.
3. Drop-Off & Pick-Up
• Please arrive on time for drop-off and collection. If you’re running late, just send me a quick message.
• If a child arrives more than 15 minutes late, I may not be able to continue the session.
4. Online Learning Guidelines
• Families are responsible for their own technology. A strong WiFi connection and a quiet space help make the most of the session.
• If there are technical difficulties on the student’s end, I may not be able to extend or reschedule the lesson.
• Online lessons should take place in a calm, supervised space where the child can focus.
5. Cancellations & Rescheduling
• I understand that things come up! If you need to cancel or reschedule, please give at least 48 hours’ notice so I can offer the slot to another family.
• Cancellations with less than 48 hours’ notice will still be charged in full, except in exceptional circumstances.
• If I ever need to cancel, I’ll always offer a rescheduled session or a full refund.
6. Additional Reports & Meetings
• If you need a detailed report, written update, or a meeting with another professional (such as a teacher or therapist), I’m happy to help but please note that these services will be charged at my standard hourly rate (£45 per hour).
• If you need support with EHCP documentation, IEP documentation or other formal paperwork, please get in touch to discuss options.
7. Resources & Materials
• If your child borrows any books or resources, please return them in good condition during the next scheduled session.
• If an item is lost or damaged, there will be a charge at full market value to replace it.
• For online lessons, parents are responsible for printing any necessary materials ahead of time.
8. Communication & Working Hours
• To help keep everything organised, I ask that all lesson-related communication is sent via email rather than WhatsApp or social media.
• My working hours are Monday–Friday, 9am–5pm. If you send a message outside of these times, I’ll respond as soon as possible during my working hours. Please note that I do not check my phone during lesson time.