Child Protection Policy

Effective Date: March 2026 At Footlights Dance Studio, the safety, wellbeing, and protection of all children and young people in our care is our highest priority. We are committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment where every student feels valued, respected, and protected. 1. Purpose and Scope This policy applies to all Footlights staff, volunteers, contractors, and visitors who interact with children and young people at our studios, events, or associated activities. It ensures that: • Everyone understands their responsibilities in safeguarding children. • We uphold the highest standards of conduct and care. • All children are supported to learn and thrive in a safe environment. 2. Commitment to Child Safety Footlights Dance Studio is committed to: • Creating a safe space for all children, inclusive of cultural background, ability, gender, or identity. • Respecting the rights, dignity, and individuality of every child. • Embedding child safety and cultural safety into everything we do. • Responding quickly and appropriately to any child safety concerns. 3. Staff and Volunteer Responsibilities All Footlights staff, contractors, and volunteers are required to: • Hold a current Blue Card (Working with Children Check) or equivalent. • Complete child protection and safety training annually. • Adhere to Footlights’ Child Safety Code of Conduct at all times. • Be positive role models and prioritise the wellbeing of children. • Report any concerns about child safety to the designated Child Safety Officer. 4. Code of Conduct Staff and volunteers at Footlights must: • Treat all children with respect and fairness. • Maintain professional boundaries and avoid favouritism. • Only use physical contact where necessary for safe dance instruction and always with consent. • Communicate with children and families in a transparent and respectful manner. • Never humiliate, isolate, or harm a child in any way. 5. Reporting and Responding to Concerns • All staff and volunteers must immediately report concerns, disclosures, or incidents of suspected harm to the Child Safety Officer. • Reports are managed confidentially and in line with Queensland child protection laws. • Footlights will cooperate fully with law enforcement and child protection agencies if an investigation occurs. 6. Child Safety Officer The designated Child Safety Officer at Footlights Dance Studio is: Name: Zoe Schnitzerling Phone: 0466 841 612 Email: admin@fldance.com.au Responsibilities include: • Overseeing the implementation of child safety procedures. • Acting as the first point of contact for concerns. • Supporting staff, students, and families with child safety matters. 7. Parental Involvement We recognise the vital role of parents and guardians in child safety. Footlights will: • Maintain open communication with families about children’s progress and wellbeing. • Provide clear information about policies and expectations. • Invite feedback and suggestions to strengthen our child safety practices. 8. Managing Online Interactions Footlights is committed to safe digital practices. • Staff will only communicate with students under 18 via parent-approved channels (e.g., studio email, BAND app, or official Footlights platforms). • Photos and videos will only be used with parental consent and for studio purposes. • Online classes and social media will be conducted in a safe, professional way. 9. Confidentiality and Privacy Any personal information is treated with confidentiality and managed in accordance with Footlights’ privacy policy and relevant laws. Information will only be shared if a child’s safety is at risk. 10. Policy Review This policy will be reviewed annually to ensure it remains effective. Updates will be communicated to all staff, families, and volunteers. At Footlights Dance Studio, we take our role in safeguarding children seriously. Together with families, we can create a safe, inspiring, and inclusive environment where every child can shine.