I'm Leigh Jones, and I'm part of Rockademy, where we deliver music lessons both privately and in schools across the UK. Rockademy offers one-to-one tuition and small group lessons in instruments like guitar, drums, keyboard, piano, bass, singing and ukulele.
In schools, we run peripatetic programmes (teachers visiting schools) or small group classes, tailoring our syllabus to each pupil's level and musical taste (rock, pop, classic songs). We also offer remote lessons (online) or face-to-face lessons depending on location and preference.
Music has been part of my life since early years, and I've always been passionate about teaching and sharing that joy with others. When I learned about Rockademy's philosophy, mixing structured technique, real songs, flexibility, and fun, I felt it matched exactly how I believe music should be taught.
The mission to bring music into schools, to offer accessible lessons, and to let each student develop their own style resonated deeply. I wanted to be part of something where musical growth is personal, not just following rigid syllabi.
The music education landscape is dominated by either rigid classical syllabi or unstructured "play by ear" approaches, but I noticed something essential missing: flexible, student-centred teaching that blends technique with songs students actually love. Many learners were experiencing rigid syllabi that ignored personal musical taste and interests, motivation loss when lessons felt disconnected from the music they cared about, logistical challenges accessing quality music tuition in schools, one-size-fits-all approaches without flexibility in format or location, and focus on theory without performance opportunities to build confidence. I wanted to be part of an organisation that bridges these gaps, offering tailored music education that keeps motivation high while building real skills.
My first steps were offering a few private lessons locally and helping a nearby school run a trial workshop. I used those early sessions as learning labs: I would ask for feedback, adapt song lists, vary lesson length, and build rapport with students and teachers.
I liaised with school heads and music departments, offering demonstration assemblies (a short performance and taster) to show what students might achieve. Those in-school showcases often led to regular lessons being booked.
My teaching approach includes one-to-one and small group tuition, peripatetic school programmes, private lessons (in-person and online), student showcases and performances, and tailored syllabi based on individual taste and level.
One challenge was logistical: scheduling around school timetables, rooms, equipment. I solved this by creating a flexible block plan and carrying a minimal portable kit (amp, cables, stand) so lessons could happen in different rooms.
Another challenge was student motivation. Some began enthusiastically, but lost momentum. To counter this, I built short milestones (learn a full song, perform to peers) and confidence boosters (recording, small performances) into the teaching plan.
As Rockademy expanded, I began working with more schools in my region and further afield. We now have programmes in multiple counties, offering peripatetic lessons in primary and secondary schools.
I also teach after-school private students and adult learners. Some of my students perform in small local gigs or school showcases.
Tailored to Student Taste: We blend technical skills (rhythm, theory, technique) with songs students love. That balance keeps motivation high.
Flexible Formats: In school, in studio, at home, online, depending on what works best for each student.
Minimal School Disruption: Our lesson durations (20 or 30 minutes often) fit into school constraints.
Progression and Performance Focus: Many students experience a mini showcase or goal to work toward, which builds confidence.
Professional Safeguarding Standards: Our tutors hold up-to-date DBS checks, and we take child protection seriously.
If I were starting again, I would document successes and case studies more systematically with permissions to show to prospective schools, invest early in online infrastructure with recording lessons and shared resources so remote students feel just as supported, build a small network of co-tutors sooner so I wasn't reliant on personally delivering every lesson, and create structured performance pathways earlier with more opportunities for students to showcase progress.
I aim to grow our reach in more schools in my region and collaborate with other tutors to cover wider geographies.
I plan to refine an online module or mini courses (e.g. "Beginner guitar crash course") to complement live lessons.
I also want to explore local performance events or student bands, giving learners more chances to apply what they've learned.
Rockademy provides flexible music education both privately and in schools across the UK. You can choose one-to-one tuition or small group lessons for instruments like guitar, drums, keyboard, piano, bass, singing, and ukulele, all tailored to your musical taste.
Instead of following rigid syllabi, our teaching is student-centred. We focus on blending essential techniques with the songs you actually love, whether that's rock, pop, or classic hits. This keeps learning engaging and helps you develop your own style.
Yes, we run peripatetic programmes where our tutors visit schools to deliver lessons. These sessions are designed to fit into the school day with minimal disruption and can be adapted for individuals or small groups.
Absolutely. We offer flexible formats to suit everyone's needs, including remote online lessons. You can also choose face-to-face tuition depending on your location and what works best for you.
We keep motivation high by focusing on progression and performance. By setting small milestones, like learning a full song or performing for peers in a showcase, you can see your progress and build confidence along the way.
Finding the right professional is crucial for your musical development. Using a trusted directory, like the one provided by Fearless, can help you connect with experienced tutors who offer personalised and engaging lesson plans.
