Module 2 | Setting Up a Safe Teaching Space

1. A Moment of Realisation

“I remember teaching one evening when a student tripped over a loose guitar lead. Thankfully, no one was hurt…”

The layout of your room directly affects how students move, how you handle instruments, and how easily you can respond to issues such as spills or tripping hazards.

A few small changes – like clearing a walkway, repositioning a cable, or adding better lighting – can prevent accidents and create a calmer learning atmosphere.

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2. The Psychology of Safe Spaces

When a student enters your teaching environment, they immediately feel something – whether it’s calm and organised, or cluttered and chaotic.

Educational research consistently shows that structured, well-lit, and tidy spaces help learners:

• Concentrate more effectively
• Feel emotionally secure
• Engage more confidently with new material

A safe teaching environment supports not just physical wellbeing, but mental focus and musical growth.

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3. Professional Safety Standards – A Global Perspective

Although the details vary between countries, the principles of safety in teaching environments are universal.

This course draws on guidance and frameworks from recognised sources, including:

• UK Health and Safety Executive (HSE) – home-based and freelance work environments
• SafeWork Australia – general practice standards for creative industries
• OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration, USA) – small business and studio safety principles
• Arts Council England – safe rehearsal and performance environments

No matter where you teach, these same foundations apply: foresee risks, prevent harm, and maintain professionalism.

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4. Planning Your Room Layout

Start by visualising the path a student takes when they enter, move around, and leave your space. A well-planned layout reduces risk before it even begins.

Ask yourself:

• Can students and parents move freely in and out of the space?
• Is there clear access to exits, windows, and seating?
• Are cables, cases, and furniture positioned out of walkways?
• Can students safely put instruments down between lessons?

💡 Tip: Take a step back – literally. Stand at your studio door and view the space as if entering for the first time. Anything you’d trip over, bump into, or find distracting?

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5. Lighting, Ventilation, and Temperature

Small environmental adjustments make a huge difference:

• Lighting: Bright but soft lighting prevents strain and helps students read music comfortably. Avoid strong glare on screens or sheet music.
• Ventilation: Fresh air prevents fatigue and keeps you alert. If windows aren’t practical, use a quiet air purifier or fan.
• Temperature: Maintain a stable temperature to protect both comfort and instrument tuning.

Think of it this way: a space that feels good is one where learning happens effortlessly.

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6. Electrical Safety and Cable Management

Cables are the number cause of minor teaching-space accidents – and also the easiest to prevent.

Best practices:

• Route cables along walls or under desks where possible.
• Secure loose wires with clips, ties, or cable sleeves.
• Avoid daisy-chaining extension leads – use one surge-protected strip per socket.
• Never place drinks near electronics.
• Regularly inspect cables and plugs for wear, scorch marks, or looseness.

🎙️ Expert Insight
“Avoid putting water or drinks on top of an amp – it sounds obvious, but that’s where most electrical accidents start.”

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7. Fire Safety Essentials

While fires are rare in teaching settings, preparedness is part of professionalism.

• Keep exits and doors clear at all times.
• Avoid candles or incense near instruments or soft materials.
• Unplug amps and electronics when not in use.
• Know where your nearest fire alarm or extinguisher is located (even if you teach in a shared space).

In larger studios, consider displaying a simple “Fire Exit” sign – small touches like this demonstrate diligence and care.

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8. Furniture, Equipment, and Ergonomics

Furniture should serve the teaching process.

Checklist:

• Use adjustable seating for different student sizes and instruments.
• Ensure music stands are stable and at a comfortable height.
• Keep heavy items (amps, books, cases) low to the ground.
• Avoid placing gear on shelves that could tip or fall.
• Encourage breaks and posture awareness – it’s part of long-term musician health.

Good ergonomics = safer, happier lessons.

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9. Managing Pets, Family, and Shared Spaces

If you teach from home, consider who – or what – shares that space.

Pets:

• Keep pets out of the teaching area during lessons. Even friendly animals can distract or trigger allergies.
• If separation isn’t possible, inform parents or adult students in advance so they can decide appropriately.
• Clean regularly to minimise pet hair and allergens, especially around instruments and electronics.

Household members:

• Let everyone in the home know your teaching schedule.
• Avoid interruptions that could distract lessons or compromise safety.
• Keep communal areas quiet and passageways clear during teaching times.

Your teaching area should feel professional and private, even inside a family home.

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10. Waiting Areas and Arrival Safety

Students often arrive early, and parents or carers may wait during lessons.

Good practice:

• Designate a small waiting area or clear hallway space away from cables and instruments.
• Provide seating if possible, but avoid crowding the teaching zone.
• Make sure doors and entryways are free of obstacles so arrivals don’t trip or block exits.
• If parents wait in vehicles, ensure safe drop-off and pick-up routines (particularly in poor weather or low light).
• Keep the path from the street to your door well lit and free of ice, leaves, or clutter.

These simple steps improve safety, comfort, and your professional presentation.

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11. Your Teaching Space Safety Checklist

Before you move on, take a minute to evaluate your own teaching environment. Tick off each section as you go:

✅ Walkways are clear and unobstructed
✅ Lighting is even and sufficient
✅ Cables are managed and secured
✅ Electrical sockets are safe and not overloaded
✅ No liquids are near electronics
✅ Fire exits and pathways are open
✅ Seating and stands are stable and appropriate
✅ The space feels calm, tidy, and professional