Safeguarding Policy
Last Updated: 27 July 2026
Our Commitment to Safeguarding
At Barbara Hooton School of Dancing, the safety, welfare and wellbeing of every child and young person is our highest priority.
We are committed to providing a safe, supportive and inclusive environment where all students can learn, develop confidence and enjoy dance free from harm, abuse, neglect or discrimination.
We recognise that safeguarding is everyone's responsibility and are committed to promoting the welfare of all children and young people who attend our classes and events.
Our Safeguarding Principles
We are committed to:
-
Putting the safety and wellbeing of every child first.
-
Treating all children and young people with dignity, fairness and respect.
-
Providing a welcoming, positive and inclusive learning environment.
-
Listening to children and taking their concerns seriously.
-
Encouraging a culture where concerns can be raised without fear.
-
Working with parents, carers and relevant agencies where appropriate to protect children.
Our Responsibilities
Barbara Hooton School of Dancing aims to:
-
Maintain appropriate safeguarding policies and procedures.
-
Ensure all teachers, assistants and volunteers understand their safeguarding responsibilities.
-
Promote safe working practices at all times.
-
Respond promptly and appropriately to safeguarding concerns.
-
Keep personal information confidential, sharing it only when necessary to protect a child or as required by law.
Health and Safety
We are committed to maintaining a safe environment for all students by:
-
Regularly assessing potential risks.
-
Ensuring dance studios and equipment are suitable and safe.
-
Maintaining appropriate first aid arrangements.
-
Recording accidents and incidents where required.
-
Taking reasonable steps to minimise the risk of injury during classes and performances.
Collection of Children
Parents or carers remain responsible for ensuring children are collected promptly at the end of each class unless alternative arrangements have been agreed.
Teachers will supervise children until collection where reasonably possible but cannot accept responsibility outside scheduled class times.
Photography and Video Recording
Photographs and videos may occasionally be taken during classes, rehearsals or performances for promotional purposes.
Images will only be used where appropriate consent has been obtained from a parent, guardian or adult student.
Parents and audience members may be asked to follow photography and filming guidelines during performances to protect the privacy of all students.
Online Safety
Where classes, communications or learning materials are provided online, Barbara Hooton School of Dancing is committed to promoting safe and responsible online behaviour.
Communication with parents and students will be conducted through appropriate and professional channels.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
Barbara Hooton School of Dancing welcomes students from all backgrounds and abilities.
We are committed to providing an environment that is inclusive, respectful and free from bullying, harassment or discrimination.
Every student deserves to feel valued, supported and encouraged to achieve their full potential.
Reporting a Concern
If a parent, carer, student or visitor has any concerns regarding the welfare or safety of a child attending Barbara Hooton School of Dancing, they should raise their concern with the school as soon as possible.
All safeguarding concerns will be taken seriously, handled sensitively and managed in accordance with appropriate safeguarding procedures and, where necessary, referred to the relevant statutory authorities.
Policy Review
This Safeguarding Policy is reviewed regularly to ensure it remains effective, reflects current legislation and follows recognised safeguarding best practice.
Any updates will be published on this page with a revised Last Updated date.
Contact Us
If you have any questions regarding this Safeguarding Policy or wish to raise a safeguarding concern, please contact Barbara Hooton School of Dancing using the details provided on our Contact page.
Barbara Hooton School of Dancing is committed to creating a safe, nurturing and inspiring environment where every student can enjoy dancing, develop their skills and achieve their full potential with confidence.