Find out more about our providers

Directory Associates & Providers

Our Directory consists of individual practitioners and organisations (referred to as Associates or Providers) who offer music education services across Swindon & Wiltshire. While Swindon Music Service (SMS) maintains this directory, apart from  SMS employed tutors, all other Associates operate independently—they are not our employees or contractors. Our role focuses on quality assurance, facilitating connections with schools, and providing professional development opportunities.

Professional Background

Individual Associates bring diverse expertise to music education. While some are qualified music teachers, others possess complementary skills, experience, or qualifications that enhance young people’s musical development. Similarly, organisational Associates may not exclusively focus on music, but maintain regular music programming as part of their services.

Quality Assurance Requirements

All Associates must successfully complete our comprehensive quality assurance process, which includes:

1. Initial consultation with the Swindon Music Service team
2. Detailed written application
3. Panel interview evaluating:

• Teaching/leadership capabilities
• Lesson and project planning expertise
• Assessment and evaluation methods
• Current safeguarding knowledge and its application
• Commitment to professional growth

Compliance Requirements

For Individual Associates:

• Current Child Protection certification (renewed every three years)
• Enhanced DBS check with annual update service
• Valid Public Liability Insurance (verified annually)

For Organisations:

• Active Child Protection Policy
• Documented DBS checking procedures for relevant staff
• Valid Public Liability Insurance (verified annually)

Reference Requirements

We require detailed written references from two sources, including at least one professional reference, for all Associates.

Professional Development

Swindon Music Service  offers subsidised professional development through various formats, including training days and mentoring schemes, benefiting both Associates and the broader music education community.

Important Note: Access to our subsidies and instrument hire services is exclusively available when working with approved Associates.