Child Protection Policy

THE JOANNE WARD DANCE ACADEMY

CHILD PROTECTION POLICY

Statement

At the Joanne Ward Dance Academy our first priority is the safety and welfare of the children and young people we teach.

We are committed to creating an environment that enables children and young people to learn and develop in a safe, understanding and encouraging environment.

We recognise that we have a responsibility to safeguard the welfare of the children and young people we teach and ensure that we have appropriate policies and procedures in place.

Aim

To support and encourage the students to gain grace, strength, creativity and confidence as well as developing self-discipline, musicality and a joy of dance. To provide a safe and trusting environment.

Recruitment

JWDA practices safe recruitment by checking the suitability of teachers to work with children and young people including ensuring all teachers hold valid CRB Clearance.

All applicants are interviewed by way of verbal interview and observed teaching before appointment is made.

References are always taken up where available.

All appointments are made subject to a probationary period.

Confidentiality

JWDA treats all matters relating to a child or young person confidentially and will only disclose information to those who the information would be of benefit to in terms of teaching a child or young person. JWDA will ensure that all matters relating to a child or young person and relayed to their relevant teachers to ensure safe practice.

Allegations against Staff

Teachers will, whenever possible, ensure that they do not place themselves in a vulnerable position with a child.

Suspicion of, or allegation of inappropriate behaviour will be responded to immediately by the principal and dealt with according to the situation.

Duty and Care

All staff holds a copy of this policy and are aware that they have a professional responsibility to safeguarding of children and young people.

Due to the nature of teaching a performing art it is sometimes necessary to physically correct positions of the body, where necessary this is conducted with the utmost care and professionalism.