I am working towards the Teaching Diploma (piano), and could use some help. I have a teacher, who is great, but has never taught this Diploma. How long do you think you should give yourself to work toward the exam? (I have allowed 8 months). How much work needs to be done on the Viva Voce topics? How many references/bibliography entries should one include in the Written Submission? Any suggestions for preparing for the Quick Study ( I am an inadequate sight-reader!). Does one need to buy all the music books for the music in the exam syllabus that is not in the ABRSM purple books? What sort of questions have you been asked in the Viva?

Just any advice at all would be great - I feel quite isolated doing this. Incidentally, I do have 3 year's teaching experience, which I think is actually a help here.

Thanks!

Hi Julia@piano
I have sent you a private message about this but if you have any general queries do let me know and I will try and help. I have done all three diplomas - Dip, LRSM and FRSM so do feel in a good position to try and help. Briefly in answer to your questions -
8 months should be enough especially if you are teaching up to grade 6 regularly.
Your three prepared pieces are very important for the viva. The examiners use them as a starting point for their teaching issues discussion. For example in a piece where a top melody needs to sing " How would you help a pupil bring out this melody?" "tell me something about cantabile playing" What problems could occur in this passage and what technical exercises could you suggest to deal with it..."
The level of submission gets more advanced with each diploma. You need to show that you have read widely but also have thoughts of your own. You definately need some references (5 or 6??) but don't go mad. Don't quote for the sake of it but for the sake of your pertinent argument.
No, you don't need to buy all the other books but you do need to be conversant with what is out there for various levels and grades. The Dip looks at teaching from beginners to grade 6 so you need to be aware of tutor books, study books, graded books etc for this type of level.

I do now have a website www.diplomasupport.pianotuition.com for anyone who wants to have a look. I am very happy to advise on these boards - everyone is so helpful and show such support but if anyone needs more direct help eg advice on their actual submissions etc please do email me direct.