Our Policies, Terms & Conditions
Lesson scheduling
The number of lessons varies per Term, depending on Half Terms and School Holiday dates etc. Termly fees reflect the number of lessons.
Missed lessons
We are unable to offer refunds, credits or extra lessons if lessons are missed due to pupil illness or for any other reason. If the Teacher misses a lesson, every attempt will be made to replace with an Industry Professional lead Workshop. Where this is not possible a refund will be made for lessons missed or a credit note offered. If any further Lockdowns are instructed by law a choice of refunds for cancelled lessons or to have payments carried forward will be issued.
Notice to discontinue Lessons
Pupils may only withdraw from lessons at the end of a Term. Written notice is required, to be received before the end of the relevant Term. Failure to do this will result in half a Terms fees being charged in lieu of notice.
Like for like lesson switches may only be made at end of half/full terms. Written notice is required, to be received before the end of the relevant Term.
Photo & Video Footage Policy
We ask that you let us know asap if you need to us to add your child/children to our strict no photo/video list. Our Images and footage taken by Champions Theatre Arts Staff are used exclusively by Champions Theatre Arts and for promotional, marketing and celebratory purposes only. Champions Theatre Arts operates a strict child protection policy and will never name students on social media or any other public material without the express permission of their parent/carers.
We ask that any footage or photos taken by parents/guardians during Champions Theatre Arts showings/demonstrations that include children other than their own are kept for personal use only and not be shared on social media.
Communication
Email:
Our main form of communication is via our email address: info@championstheatrearts.co.uk
(Sometimes our emails can find their way to your Junk/Spam folders, so we strongly suggest you Star/VIP our email as a trusted contact to try and avoid this from happening)
WhatsApp Community:
The WhatsApp Community will be used for updates from the CTA Team only, Parents/Carers will not be able to communicate with others in the community or see each others contact details. The community is a way for you to be kept updated in addition to email with all things Champions Theatre Arts Ltd.
Phone:
In the event of an emergency we will use the phone number provided on your parent/carer profile to contact you. Please ensure this is always up to date.
Parent/Guardian Responsibilities
- Students must be dropped off and collected punctually and by their pre arranged adult. Any changes to the pre arranged adult collecting must be communicated to Champions `Theatre Arts before the end of the session. Any child that goes home alone must have prior permission and confirmation of permission if they do not usually. Persistent late collections risk being charged for Staffs time.
- Any last minute absences, booked holiday or family celebrations must be communicated to Champions Theatre Arts as soon as possible. This is extremely important as we approach performance dates.
- Champions Theatre Arts hold no responsibility for broken or lost personal belongings.
- Changes to contact information/medical updates must be communicated to Champions Theatre Arts
- We run a strict NO NUT policy at CTA
- Parents are not permitted to watch classes. There are some exemptions for `Mini Champs classes to help settle for the first couple of lessons if we feel this would be beneficial for both child and parent. We can guarantee there will be plenty of opportunities to watch your child perform throughout the year.
- Students must attend class wearing their Champions Theatre Arts T Shirt that can be purchased on our Online Shop. Any Leggings or Jogging Bottoms and either black split sole Jazz shoes or Trainers. Black leggings or Tracksuit bottoms are to be worn for Performances.
- Students must attend Class with a bottle of water and a hoody/jumper, either their own or a Champions Theatre Arts Hoody which are available on our online shop.
Safeguarding Policy
Your students enjoyment and safety is at the heart of everything we do. We continuously review and update our child protection and safeguarding policy. We have clear enhanced checks made by the Disclosure and Barring Service.
Our Child Protection Policy
1 Purpose
1.1. We are committed to ensuring a safe environment for students, and safeguard their welfare, by a commitment to best practice to protect them. Also having a duty to ensure that it makes safe decisions in the engagement of teachers and volunteers.
1.2. This policy applies to anyone who teaches on behalf of us.
We also recognise that:
The welfare of the child/young person is paramount. All students, regardless of age, disability, gender, racial heritage, religious belief, sexual orientation or identity, have the right to equal protection from all types of harm or abuse. Working in partnership with children, young people and their parents is essential in promoting young people’s welfare.
The purpose of the policy is to:
Provide protection for our students, and have knowledge and procedures to adopt in the event we suspect a child or young person may be experiencing, or be at risk of, harm. We will seek to safeguard children and young people by:
- Valuing them, listening to and respecting them.
- Adopting child protection guidelines through procedures and conducting safe working practice.
2. Disclosure and Barring Service
2.1. The Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) was set up by the Home Office to improve access to these criminal records. This is done via a Disclosure Check, which is a process for gathering information about someone’s spent and unspent criminal convictions and other cautions, reprimands and final warnings given by the Police. This service enables organisations to make safer recruitment decisions by identifying candidates who may be unsuitable, or present a risk, for certain work, especially when working with children and/or adults classed as vulnerable.
2.2. The results of the check are printed on a document officially known as a Disclosure.
2.3. This policy sets out how we, Jack & Flo will meet its obligations to conduct Disclosures where necessary.
3. Scope
3.1 This policy relates to any applicant or existing teacher or volunteer who is offered work by us, Jack & Flo.
4. Definitions of Regulated Activity
4.1 Under the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006 and amended by the Protection of Freedoms Act 2012, a child is defined as someone who has not yet attained the age of 18. Regulated activity in relation to children focuses on work which involves close and unsupervised contact, specifically:Regularly undertaking unsupervised activities: teach, train, instruct, care for or supervise children, or provide advice/guidance on wellbeing.
5. Contracts in Roles Requiring Disclosure
5.1 Jack & Flo will also ensure that the role and the Disclosure are regularly reviewed and updated as appropriate.
6. Handling Disclosure Data
6.1 Our policy has been produced to comply with the regulations outlined in the DBS Code of Practice and the Safeguarding of Vulnerable Groups Act 2006, the Children Act 1989 (and 2004), and also operate within the remit of the Data Protection Act 1998.
7. Handling complaints
7.1 We take all complaints made against teachers seriously. Procedures are in place for students, parents and teachers to share any concern that they may have about the actions of any teacher. All such complaints will be dealt with immediately. These procedures are used in respect of all cases in which it is alleged that a teacher has:
Behaved in a way that has harmed a child, or may have harmed a child; Possibly committed a criminal offence against or related to a child; or Behaved towards a child or children in a way that indicates he or she would pose a risk of harm children.
7.2 Jack & Flo have a legal duty to refer to the DBS anyone who has harmed, or poses a risk of harm, to a child and who has been removed from working (paid or unpaid) in regulated activity, or would have been removed had they not left. The DBS will consider whether to bar the person. Referrals will be made as soon as possible after the removal of the individual.
Name: Jack Everson & Florence Champion
Position Held: CEO
Date Modified: Aug 1st 2023
Behaviour and Inclusivity Policy
Introduction:
At Champions Theatre Arts Ltd (CTA), we are committed to providing a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for all students, staff, and visitors. This Behaviour and Inclusivity Policy outlines our expectations for conduct and our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Behaviour Expectations:
- Respect: All members of Champions Theatre Arts Ltd (CTA) must treat each other with respect, kindness, and consideration. This includes students, facilitators, teachers, staff, and visitors.
- Inclusivity: We celebrate diversity and welcome individuals of all backgrounds, abilities, genders, races, and identities. Discrimination, harassment, or bullying of any form will not be tolerated. If you have specific needs, please inform us and we will work to make all reasonable adjustments to the best of our ability.
- Safety: We prioritise the physical and emotional safety of everyone at Champions Theatre Arts Ltd (CTA). Any actions that compromise safety, such as but not limited to violence, threats, or unsafe practices, are strictly prohibited.
- Professionalism: Students are expected to behave professionally during classes, rehearsals, and performances. This includes punctuality, preparedness, and a positive attitude.
- Communication: Open and respectful communication is essential. If you have concerns or experience any issues related to behaviour or inclusivity, please report them to CTA.
Inclusivity Commitment:
- Accessibility: We strive to make our facilities and programmes accessible to all. If you have specific accessibility needs, please inform us, and we will work to make all reasonable adjustments to the best of our ability.
- Gender Inclusivity: We respect and acknowledge all gender identities and expressions.
- Anti–Discrimination: Discrimination based on race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or any other characteristic is strictly prohibited.
- Inclusive Casting: Casting decisions will be made without bias, ensuring that opportunities are available to all students regardless of background or identity.
Consequences of Violations:
Violations of this Behaviour and Inclusivity Policy may result in consequences, including but not limited to warnings, probation, suspension, or expulsion, depending on the severity.
Reporting Violations:
If you witness or experience a violation of this policy, please report it to CTA. All reports will be taken seriously and kept confidential to the extent possible.
Conclusion:
At Champions Theatre Arts Ltd (CTA), we believe that a commitment to behaviour and inclusivity is essential to creating a thriving, supportive, and creative learning environment. We expect all members of CTA to uphold these values and work together to make our theatre school a welcoming place for all.
CTA Theatre School Armed Intruder Policy & Procedure
Policy Statement
The safety and security of students, staff, and visitors at our Theatre School & Camps are of utmost importance. This policy outlines the procedures to be followed in the event of an armed intruder on campus. The goal is to ensure a coordinated and effective response to minimise risk and protect lives.
Scope
This policy applies to all students, staff, faculty, and visitors at the theatre school.
Definitions
- Armed Intruder: Any individual on campus who is armed with a weapon and poses a threat to the safety and security of the school community.
- Lockdown: A procedure used to secure people in designated safe areas within the school to protect them from an armed intruder.
- Evacuation: A procedure used to move people to a safe location away from the threat.
Procedures
- Identification of an Armed Intruder
- Any individual who observes an armed intruder or potential threat must immediately call 999 and provide the following information:
- Location of the intruder
- Description of the intruder
- Type of weapon(s)
- Any known threats or actions taken by the intruder
- Notification of a Threat
- Upon identification of an armed intruder, the individual should also notify the school administration.
- The administration will initiate the emergency notification system to alert all students, staff, and visitors.
- Lockdown Procedure
- Announcement: An announcement will be made over the public address system: “Lockdown, lockdown, lockdown. Armed intruder on campus. Follow lockdown procedures immediately.”
- Securing Rooms:
- Lock and barricade doors.
- Turn off lights.
- Silence all mobile phones.
- Move away from windows and doors.
- Remain silent.
- Account for Individuals:
- Take a headcount of all individuals present.
- Report any missing or extra individuals to the administration if safe to do so.
- Evacuation Procedure
- If it is safe to do so, and only if directed by law enforcement or administration, evacuate the building using the nearest safe exit.
- Follow designated evacuation routes to the predetermined safe location.
- Do not use lifts.
- Assist individuals with disabilities in evacuating.
- Once at the safe location, account for all individuals and report any missing persons to law enforcement or administration.
- Communication During the Incident
- Use text messaging or email to communicate silently if necessary.
- Do not use social media to share information about the incident, as it may compromise safety and police operations.
- Interaction with Law Enforcement
- Follow all instructions given by law enforcement officers.
- Keep hands visible and empty.
- Remain calm and do not make sudden movements.
- Post-Incident Procedures
- Reunification: Once the situation is under control, follow the reunification plan to ensure students are safely reunited with their families.
- Counselling and Support: Provide access to counselling services for those affected by the incident.
- Debriefing: Conduct a debriefing session with staff and law enforcement to review the incident and improve future response procedures.
This policy is subject to periodic review and may be updated to reflect evolving best practices and legal requirements.
Name: Jack Everson & Florence Champion
Position Held: CEO
Date: Sep 28th 2023