Child protection &safeguarding policy

Sam Wrey Performance Academy – Child Protection Policy

1. Policy Statement

At Sam Wrey Performance Academy, the safety and wellbeing of all children and young people in our care are our highest priority. We are committed to providing a secure, positive, and inclusive environment where every child can learn, perform, and grow in confidence while being protected from harm.

We believe that all children have the right to a safe and supportive environment, free from abuse, neglect, or exploitation of any kind.

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2. Our Commitment

To ensure the safety and protection of all children attending Sam Wrey Performance Academy:

• All teachers and staff are fully DBS checked (Disclosure and Barring Service).

• All staff must wear official identification badges at all times while on duty.

• All children will be issued identifiable wristbands during classes, rehearsals, and performances to ensure their safety and easy recognition by staff.

• We maintain appropriate ratios of staff to children and ensure that supervision is continuous and effective.

• We encourage open communication and support for children to express any concerns or worries they may have.

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3. Social Media and Publicity Consent

• A Social Media and Publicity Consent Form must be signed by a parent or legal guardian to indicate whether a child may be photographed or filmed for academy publicity purposes (including marketing materials, the academy’s website, and official social media pages).

• Children without consent will never be photographed or filmed, and every effort will be made to ensure they are kept well away from any photography, videography, or social media-related activity.

• All photography and video content will be used solely for promotional purposes related to the academy and will always reflect our commitment to safeguarding and professionalism.

• Staff are strictly prohibited from taking or sharing any images or videos of children on personal devices or accounts.

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4. Roles and Responsibilities

• The Principal of Sam Wrey Performance Academy holds overall responsibility for implementing and reviewing this policy.

• All staff members are required to:

• Adhere to safeguarding procedures at all times.

• Remain vigilant for signs of abuse, neglect, or bullying.

• Report any concerns immediately to the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL).

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5. Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)

Our Designated Safeguarding Lead is responsible for managing and responding to all safeguarding concerns.

The DSL’s name and contact details will be displayed clearly on academy premises and shared with parents and guardians.

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6. Reporting Concerns

Any concerns about a child’s welfare or safety must be reported immediately to the DSL.

All reports will be handled with sensitivity, confidentiality, and in accordance with safeguarding best practices and legal requirements.

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7. Code of Conduct for Staff

All staff, volunteers, and visiting professionals are expected to:

• Act as positive role models at all times.

• Maintain appropriate professional boundaries with children.

• Refrain from any form of physical punishment, inappropriate language, or discriminatory behavior.

• Always work in an open and transparent manner.

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8. Review of Policy

This policy will be reviewed annually, or sooner if changes in legislation or practice require it. Updates will be communicated to all staff and parents.

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9. Conclusion

At Sam Wrey Performance Academy, children’s safety is paramount.

We are dedicated to ensuring every young performer enjoys a safe, respectful, and inspiring environment in which to thrive creatively and personally.