Child Protection & Safeguarding Policy

First Position Ballet Academy is committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for all children and young people. The wellbeing and protection of our students is paramount, and we take our responsibilities seriously in line with New Zealand safeguarding expectations.

First Position Ballet Academy supports the safeguarding principles promoted by the Royal Academy of Dance and is committed to upholding best practice in child safety and wellbeing.

Our Commitment to Child Safety

First Position Ballet Academy is committed to:

  • Creating a child-safe environment where students feel respected, valued, and supported

  • Promoting the physical, emotional, and psychological wellbeing of all dancers

  • Acting in the best interests of the child at all times

We recognise our responsibility to protect children from harm and to respond appropriately to any concerns regarding a child’s safety or wellbeing.

Professional Conduct & Boundaries

All teachers and staff are expected to maintain appropriate professional boundaries at all times. This includes:

  • Treating all students with respect, fairness, and dignity

  • Using positive, age-appropriate language and teaching methods

  • Providing physical correction only when necessary for teaching purposes, and in a safe, appropriate, and professional manner

  • Ensuring teaching practices align with RAD standards and best practice in dance education

Supervision & Duty of Care

Students are supervised during their scheduled class times only. Parents and caregivers are responsible for:

  • Ensuring students arrive on time and are collected promptly

  • Accompanying younger dancers to and from the studio

Health, Wellbeing & Safe Practice

First Position Ballet Academy is committed to safe dance practice. Parents/caregivers are asked to inform the teacher of any medical conditions, injuries, or wellbeing concerns that may affect participation.

Dancers who are unwell should not attend class. Injured dancers are encouraged to attend classes as observers, where appropriate, to maintain connection with their training.

Communication

All communication with parents/caregivers and students will be professional, respectful, and appropriate. Communication with students will relate solely to their dance training and wellbeing.

Responding to Concerns

Any concerns regarding a child’s safety or wellbeing will be taken seriously. Concerns may be raised directly with the academy and will be managed with care, discretion, and in accordance with New Zealand child safeguarding principles. Where required, appropriate steps will be taken to ensure the safety of the child.

Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed regularly to ensure it remains aligned with New Zealand safeguarding expectations and Royal Academy of Dance standards.