My piano teacher suggested that I try and get some teaching experience, so I registered myself on www.musicteachers.co.uk on the advice of some people here, and I was very surprised to get a call a couple of weeks later! This is the first student I have taught - she is 8 years old and has some experience of the piano already (she is transferring to me from another teacher). Apparently she was keen to contact me as I was younger than most teachers (I'm 16) - perhaps some younger children are put off by older teachers? We are meeting tomorrow to have a chat and start lessons next week. Anyway, as this is my first pupil I was wondering if anyone had any tips or dos/don'ts, as there are many experienced teachers on the board.

I can remember when I first started teaching and it was quite frightening.Even now I`m nervous when meeting a pupil and their parent for the first time although I`m confident in my ability. When I think how old I am compared to you that is another depressing thought as bad as filling in self assessment forms,but don`t you worry about that yet!

It is very welcoming to hear that your teacher is encouraging you to gain teaching experience.Lean on her for support and ask her questions over the next few weeks regarding your new pupil.

You are very wise to chat with the mum and pupil beforehand having broken the ice.I suggest you let the mum stay in the lessons although she mustn`t participate.

I could rabbit on here for ages,but I must really go to bed! Had probs with the computer so I`m making up for it.

You need to discuss your fee and how you wish to be paid.As you are only 16 I suggest cash (ssh)paid weekly,decide on the appropriate tutor book,the pupil will need a manuscript book and you will need an exercise book to write down what you have covered in the lesson,what the pupil needs to practise and more importantly,how, and ask mum to write down any concerns in this book during the week.Mum is obviously aware of your age and experience.

At this pupil`s age it would be nice for you to give them a sticker after each lesson and for mum to use a star chart after the pupil has practised during the week.

I`m afraid it`s all down to trial and error when gaining teaching experience.That`s why I suggested leaning on your teacher for a bit of support.Don`t be afraid to ask questions.Think about how your teacher would approach a problem.

The first question I ask to a prospective pupil is do you have a piano? You will be surprised at the number of answers that say no...

I`ve probably missed lots of other points,but other people will post back at a more civilised hour I`m sure.

Please let us know how you get on and please post back with any concerns as it`s very daunting at first.

Good Luck.