Child Protection Policy

Child Protection Policy

INTRODUCTION

The Village School of Dance is fully committed to the safeguarding and welfare of all children and young people. This policy sets out our beliefs and principles as a dance school and our commitment to protecting children from harm, preventing injury or impairment to health or development and ensuring that children are provided with an environment to support the safe and effective delivery of care.

All staff, freelancers, volunteers and helpers are committed to working together to respect the rights of children and young people in accordance with the duty of care requirements as provided for in the Children Act 1989 and 2004, the Children and Young Persons Act 1963, the Children (Performances and Activities) (England) Regulations 2014, the Criminal Justice and Court Services Act 2000, Working Together to Safeguard Children 2013 and Working Together 2018.

This policy was last updated in April 2021 and will be reviewed and updated at least annually.

OUR BELIEFS

The Village School of Dance believes that:

  1. The welfare of every child is paramount;
  2. All children, regardless of gender, age, race, religion, religious belief and/or sexual orientation have the right to protection from abuse;
  3. The Village School of Dance has a responsibility to protect the welfare of all children and ensure that the correct measures are put in place to provide for a safe teaching environment;
  4. Any and all suspicions and allegations of abuse should be treated seriously and investigated; and
  5. Support should be provided to all of those at The Village School of Dance to respond appropriately.

IN IMPLEMENTING THIS POLICY WE WILL:

  1. Ensure that all responsible adults have access to information and training to assist them in supporting us to prevent harm;
  2. Provide an environment which is clean, safe and which allows children to develop without fear or criticism;
  3. Provide adults who can be trusted and relied upon;
  4. Work together to prevent harm of all kinds including, physical, emotional and/or sexual abuse and neglect;
  5. Stop any inappropriate behaviour;
  6. Encourage an environment of openness, honesty and transparency between staff and volunteers.
  7. As far as possible, stay up-to-date with changes in legislation and key principles relating to the protection and safety of children and young people.