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CSBS (Cecile Silcock Ballet Studio) is committed to creating a safe, supportive and inclusive environment for all children and young people who participate in its classes, rehearsals and activities. The studio recognises its responsibility to take appropriate and proportionate measures to protect children from harm, neglect, abuse or exploitation.

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CSBS accepts that safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. All staff, assistants, volunteers and members of the wider CSBS community are expected to work together to promote a culture of respect, openness and vigilance. The studio values diversity and difference and is committed to upholding the rights, dignity and welfare of children, young people and adults at all times.

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Any concerns, suspicions or allegations of abuse will be taken seriously and responded to promptly and appropriately in line with statutory guidance.

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Physical Contact Statement

 

Dance training is inherently physical, and there may be occasions when a teacher or assistant needs to use appropriate physical contact to guide, support or correct a student’s alignment or movement. Such contact will always be professional, necessary, and carried out with the student’s safety and wellbeing as the primary consideration.

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All physical contact will be appropriate to the age, ability and understanding of the student and will never be intrusive or inappropriate. Wherever possible, verbal explanation and demonstration will be used alongside or instead of physical guidance.

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Good practice

CSBS is committed to providing high-quality, enjoyable and safe dance education for all students enrolled at the studio.

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• The studio premises and equipment will be regularly checked to ensure they are safe and fit for purpose. Any hazards or defects will be reported immediately to the studio manager.

• CSBS will remain informed of and compliant with current health and safety legislation.

• Teaching will be tailored to the age, experience and physical capability of each student. No pupil will be asked to perform movements beyond their individual limits.

• Staff will respect and be mindful of students’ cultural backgrounds, religious beliefs and personal circumstances.

• The wellbeing and welfare of every child will always take priority.

• Bullying, harassment or intimidation of any kind will not be tolerated.

• CSBS promotes equality and will not accept discrimination in any form. All students will be treated fairly, with respect and dignity.

• Staff are expected to maintain the highest standards of professionalism and conduct at all times. The principal reserves the right to remove any pupil whose behaviour persistently disrupts classes or compromises the safety or wellbeing of others.

• Warm-up activities will be included before energetic movement, and cool-down sessions will follow to reduce the risk of injury.

• Feedback will be positive, encouraging and constructive, focusing on development rather than criticism.

• An accident and incident log will be maintained to record any injuries or concerns involving students or staff.

• Young children will not be permitted to leave the premises unaccompanied. A responsible adult authorised by a parent or guardian must collect them, and a member of staff will remain on site until all students have departed.

• Students will not be left unsupervised at any time.

• No student under the age of 16 will be transported in a staff member’s vehicle without prior parental consent, except in emergency situations.

• Only suitably qualified and experienced individuals will teach classes. Student assistants may help only under the direct supervision of a qualified teacher.

• All staff and volunteers will be required to hold appropriate DBS clearance.

• The principal will ensure that adequate public liability and professional indemnity insurance is in place.
   

Responding to Child Protection Concerns

 

If a safeguarding concern is identified, a member of the CSBS team must inform the studio principal immediately.

The principal will assess the concern and, where appropriate, contact the relevant local authority children’s services department. Statutory agencies are responsible for investigating safeguarding concerns and determining any further action required.

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Recording and Storing Information

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All safeguarding concerns, allegations or incidents will be documented, including those arising from confidential disclosures. Records will be made regardless of whether the matter is referred to an external agency.

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Records will include:

• The date and time of the incident or disclosure

• The individuals involved

• A factual account of what was said or observed

• Actions taken and by whom

• Any follow-up actions or decisions made

• Reasons for non-referral, where applicable

• The names of those reporting and receiving the information
   

All records will be stored securely and accessed only by individuals who have a legitimate need to know, in line with data protection and confidentiality requirements.