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OUR POLICIES & TERMS

Hello and welcome!

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I’m so excited to have you join us at First Steps Performing Arts. Whether your child is taking their very first steps into the world of performing arts or building on skills they already love, our classes are designed to be magical, supportive, and full of possibility.

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I believe every child deserves a space where they feel safe, encouraged, and excited to learn — a place where kindness, creativity, and fun are at the heart of everything we do.

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From our tiniest dancers to our budding stars, we celebrate every milestone and help our students dream big, work hard, and believe in themselves.

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Thank you for trusting me with your child’s first steps in performing arts. I can’t wait to share this journey with you and watch them shine!

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With love,


Miss Courtney
Founder & Principal

Terms & Conditions

1. Registration and Payments

1.1 All registration is completed via our Google Form and stored securely in line with GDPR regulations.


1.2 Fees are paid monthly in advance on the 1st of each month.


1.3 Places in class are only secured once payment has been received.


1.4 All fees, including workshops and events, are non-refundable (except where required by law).


1.5 Fees are reviewed annually, and any changes will be communicated in advance.


1.6 If your child wishes to stop attending, we require one month’s written notice by email.

2. Attendance

2.1 Classes missed due to illness, holidays, or other commitments are still chargeable.


2.2 We do not offer refunds, but makeup classes may be arranged if space allows.


2.3 Classes with fewer than five children enrolled may be subject to cancellation.

3. Uniform and Clothing

3.1 For safety reasons, no jewellery, watches, or accessories should be worn in class.

4. Class Conduct and Safety

4.1 We believe in a warm and respectful environment where children thrive.


4.2 Any disruptive behaviour will be met with a gentle warning. If it continues, we’ll speak with the parent or guardian to find a supportive solution.


4.3 For safety, children will not be permitted to leave the premises without a parent or guardian unless agreed in writing.


4.4 Teachers follow safe practices and are trained in safeguarding. First Steps Performing Arts is not liable for injuries sustained in class due to unforeseen accidents, except where liability cannot be excluded by law.


4.5 Late pickup may result in additional charges.

5. Communication and Media

5.1 Our primary communication is by email and social media. Please check both regularly and keep your contact details up to date.


5.2 We occasionally take photos or videos during class for promotional purposes. If you do not wish for your child to be included, please let us know before their trial.


5.3 We may work with trusted external media partners in line with our Privacy Policy.

6. Behaviour and Respect

6.1 We have a zero-tolerance policy for bullying or aggressive behaviour.


6.2 Our classes are built on kindness, fun, and mutual respect. This includes parents, children, and staff.


6.3 Repeated or serious breaches of this code may result in removal from classes.

7. Health and Medical Information

7.1 Any medical needs must be disclosed via the registration form and kept updated as necessary.


7.2 Occasionally, physical contact may be required to assist children safely. Our team is trained to do this respectfully and professionally.


7.3 In the event of a cancellation due to circumstances outside our control, such as severe weather or illness, fees are non-refundable.

8. Participation in Events

8.1 Shows, exams, and workshops are completely optional, and participation is always your choice.


8.2 Event payments are non-refundable once confirmed.

By signing up to our classes, you are agreeing to these Terms and Conditions.

Health & Safety Policy

1. Policy Statement

First Steps Performing Arts recognises and accepts its responsibilities under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, and other relevant legislation to provide a safe and healthy environment for all employees, students, contractors, visitors, and members of the public.

2. Objectives

  • To prevent accidents and cases of work-related ill health.

  • To provide clear instructions, training, and supervision.

  • To maintain safe and healthy premises, equipment, and activities.

  • To regularly assess risks and implement appropriate measures.

3. Responsibilities

Principal/Owner: Overall responsibility for health and safety arrangements; ensuring risk assessments are carried out and regularly reviewed; ensuring staff training and resources are in place; reviewing policies annually.

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Staff and Volunteers: Cooperate with this policy; take reasonable care of their own and others’ safety; report any hazards, near misses, or concerns immediately.

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Students and Visitors: Follow instructions and safety procedures; report any accidents or concerns to staff.

4. Risk Assessment

  • Conducted for all dance activities, including warm-up, rehearsal, and performance.

  • Reviewed annually or after any incident.

  • Recorded and communicated to staff.

5. Safe Environment

  • Floors must be clean, dry, and free from obstructions.

  • Fire exits must be kept clear at all times.

  • Electrical equipment will be PAT-tested annually.

  • Heating, lighting, and ventilation must be maintained at safe levels.

6. Fire Safety

  • A Fire Risk Assessment will be reviewed annually.

  • Fire drills will be conducted at least once per year.

  • Fire extinguishers will be maintained and checked annually.

  • Clear fire evacuation procedures will be displayed prominently.

7. First Aid

  • A first aid box will be accessible in all main teaching areas.

  • At least one trained first aider will be present during all classes and events.

  • All accidents and incidents will be recorded in the accident book and, where necessary, reported under RIDDOR 2013.

8. Manual Handling

  • Staff must avoid lifting heavy items alone.

  • Students should not be asked to move heavy equipment.

9. Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH)

  • Any hazardous cleaning products or substances will be stored securely.

  • Safety Data Sheets will be kept on file.

10. Training and Information

  • All staff will be provided with health and safety induction training.

  • Additional training will be provided when significant changes occur.

  • Updates and reminders will be communicated regularly.

11. Monitoring and Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or following any significant incident or change in legislation.

Date of Issue: July 2025
Date of Next Review: July 2026

Safeguarding & Child Protection Policy

1. Policy Statement

First Steps Performing Arts is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children, young people, and vulnerable adults. This policy complies with: The Children Act 1989 and 2004; Working Together to Safeguard Children (2018); Keeping Children Safe in Education (latest); and The Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006.

 

We believe that:

  • The welfare of the child is paramount.

  • All children, regardless of age, ability, gender, race, religion, or background, have an equal right to protection.

  • All suspicions and allegations of abuse must be taken seriously and responded to appropriately.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all staff and volunteers, contractors working on behalf of the school, all students under 18, and vulnerable adults.

3. Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)

Name: Miss Courtney (Principal)
Email: hello@firststepsperformingarts.co.uk

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Roles: Main point of contact for safeguarding concerns; liaise with LADO and partners; maintain secure records; ensure staff training and updates.

4. Recognising Abuse

Staff must be alert to signs of physical, emotional, or sexual abuse; neglect; grooming, and exploitation.

5. Reporting Concerns

  • If a child is in immediate danger, call 999.

  • Otherwise: record the concern factually; report to the DSL as soon as possible; do not discuss with others unless advised by DSL or statutory services.

6. Allegations Against Staff

Report immediately to the DSL (or to another lead if the DSL is implicated). The DSL informs the LADO.

7. Code of Conduct for Staff & Volunteers

Respect and dignity for all; avoid being alone with a child where you cannot be observed; no inappropriate behaviour; physical contact only when appropriate and necessary; never promise confidentiality.

8. Safer Recruitment

Enhanced DBS checks for all staff; references and ID checks before work begins.

9. Training

Safeguarding training for all at least every 2 years; DSL completes advanced training; regular updates shared.

10. Record Keeping

All safeguarding records are kept securely and confidentially.

11. Sharing Information

Information is shared on a need-to-know basis in line with data protection law.

12. Review

Reviewed annually or after any safeguarding incident.

Dancer & Parent Code of Conduct

At First Steps Performing Arts, we believe every dancer should feel safe, supported, and inspired. We are a non-competitive, inclusive school where the focus is on confidence, creativity, and enjoyment of the arts.

This Code of Conduct outlines how we can all work together to create a positive and respectful environment for everyone.

As a dancer, I will:

  • Arrive on time for classes, workshops, events, and rehearsals.

  • Be “ready to dance” — dressed appropriately, hair done, and warmed up where needed.

  • Take part to the best of my ability, even when challenged.

  • Let First Steps know if I will be absent; I understand repeated unexplained absence may affect participation in shows/events.

  • Watch and learn if I’m unable to dance due to a minor illness or injury (where safe).

  • Be kind, polite, and encouraging to teachers and fellow dancers.

  • Wear appropriate dancewear (uniform or plain black), with hair neat and off my face; no jewellery in class.

  • Represent First Steps positively in and out of class.

  • Give my best physically, mentally, and emotionally — including practising at home when needed.

  • Take care of the studio, props, and costumes.

  • Speak to Miss Courtney if I have worries about dance or anything else.

  • Take responsibility for my belongings; we’ll help check lost property if needed.

  • Follow any health and safety guidelines in place.

I will not:

  • Wear jewellery (except small studs) or leave my hair down in class.

  • Be unkind, gossip, or exclude others — in person or online.

  • Chew gum or eat food in class (water encouraged).

  • Use my phone in class without permission.

  • Share choreography or music online without permission.

  • Leave the premises without a parent or guardian unless agreed in advance.

  • Re-teach school choreography without permission from Miss Courtney.

I understand that:

  • Regular attendance helps me get the most out of classes.

  • If a class is cancelled for unforeseen reasons, families will be informed; where possible, the class will be rescheduled or credited.

  • The teacher decides when I’m ready to take part in performances and events.

  • There is zero tolerance for bullying, discrimination, or unsafe behaviour.

  • I can always speak to Miss Courtney or contact her by email or phone.

Physical Corrections

Gentle, professional touch may be used to help understanding of movement and will be explained first. If you prefer to opt out, please inform Miss Courtney.
Hygiene protocols apply where relevant.

Social Media & Photography

  • Families may photograph their own child during open/watch weeks; please avoid capturing other children without permission.

  • Professional photography may be offered (optional).

  • Performances may be filmed; children who opt out will not appear.

  • We share updates on Facebook and Instagram — please use private messages for personal matters.

Safety Policy: Armed Intruder or Serious Threat

Our priority is the safety of dancers, families, and staff.

In the unlikely event of a dangerous situation, we will:

  1. Immediate Assessment — Assess from a safe distance; do not approach.

  2. Call 999 — Provide name, location, description, last known location, and actions taken.

  3. Lockdown — Lock doors; move to a safe room; lights off; curtains/blinds closed; devices silent; keep calm and quiet until police give the all clear.

  4. Evacuation (if safe or advised) — Follow emergency services; meeting point outside the gates on Alder Road; Miss Courtney to account for all students via register.

  5. Communicate with Families — Updates via email or private groups with safety measures and collection information.

  6. After the Incident — Police “all clear”; offer support; staff debrief and review procedures.

Safeguarding & Child Protection Policy

First Steps is a bully-free zone.

We do not tolerate any bullying — verbal, physical, online, or emotional — including unkindness based on ability, appearance, race, religion, culture, gender, sexual orientation, family background, or additional needs.

Bullying can include:

  • Emotional (excluding, teasing, threats)

  • Physical (pushing, hitting, damage)

  • Verbal (name-calling, mocking)

  • Cyber (hurtful messages, posts, images)

Our aims:

  • Create a safe, supportive environment

  • Encourage kindness and empathy

  • Support both the person being bullied and the person displaying the behaviour so change can happen

When bullying is suspected or reported:

  • We listen and take it seriously

  • Hear both sides and gather facts

  • Record incidents

  • Inform parents where appropriate

  • Agree a plan to prevent further issues (e.g. mediation, support strategies, behaviour agreements)

Parents can help by:

  • Encouraging open conversations

  • Informing us early of concerns

  • Supporting agreed plans

Artificial Intelligence (AI) Policy

1. Policy Statement

First Steps Performing Arts recognises that Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools are increasingly being used in education, administration, and creative industries. We are committed to using AI responsibly, transparently, and ethically, in line with UK GDPR, safeguarding guidance, and our commitment to providing a safe and creative environment for our students.

This policy applies to all staff, volunteers, contractors, and, where relevant, students and parents.

2. Purpose of AI Use at First Steps

AI tools may be used to:

  • Assist with lesson planning, choreography ideas, and teaching resources

  • Support marketing and communications (e.g. social media content, newsletters)

  • Create administrative templates, policies, and business documents

  • Enhance accessibility (e.g. creating easy-read formats, translations)

  • Generate creative materials such as posters, class resources, or costume designs

3. Ethical Guidelines for AI Use

  • Transparency: We will be open about when AI tools are used to assist in creating content

  • Human oversight: All AI-generated materials will be reviewed, edited, and approved by a qualified staff member before use

  • Accuracy: AI content will be checked to ensure correctness and suitability

  • Originality: AI tools will not be used to copy or infringe on other creators’ work

  • Bias awareness: Staff will be mindful of potential bias in AI outputs

4. Safeguarding and AI

  • AI tools will never be used to interact directly with children or collect information from them

  • Any student-related content created with AI will use anonymised data unless explicit parental consent is given

  • AI image tools will never be used to create or manipulate images of students

5. Data Protection and Privacy

  • We comply with UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018

  • No personal or sensitive data will be entered into AI tools that store or share data externally

  • All AI tools used must meet appropriate privacy and security standards

6. AI in Teaching and Creative Work

  • AI supports but does not replace teacher-led instruction

  • All choreography, exam preparation, and performance work remain teacher-led

  • AI may be used as inspiration but does not replace creativity and individuality

7. Staff Responsibilities

  • Only approved AI tools should be used

  • Login details must be kept secure

  • Staff should seek guidance if unsure about appropriate use

8. Monitoring and Review

  • This policy will be reviewed annually

  • Any concerns should be reported to Miss Courtney

Contact: hello@firststepsperformingarts.co.uk | 07947 163212
Last Updated: August 2025

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