Firebird Academy of Ballet

Health and Safety Policy

Ballet, as with any physical activity or sport, has inherent dangers such as falls and sprains.  It is incumbent upon the applicant to determine, along with the advice of a physician, if this is a suitable activity and risk.  Student training involves balance and coordination, and attempting movements that a student may not have done before, and Firebird Academy of Ballet (FAB) cannot be held responsible for injuries.  We start gradually, especially with young students, but improvement comes from learning new movements that are physical in nature.

When “staff” is referred to we mean staff teachers, freelance teachers, contractors, volunteers, administrational and ancillary personnel who help out in various ways.

Student and Guest Code of Conduct

• Students should wear shoes at all times when walking around the building and make sure that ribbons and laces are tied properly. Outdoor shoes are not to be worn in the studios.
• It is essential that students are in the right place at the right time. If late for class they may miss vital information, impede the learning of others, and place themselves at risk of injury should they miss the warm-up section of the class.
• It is important that students always keep themselves warm between classes in order to protect against injury.
• Students should bring to class a water bottle and drink often, and ensure they keep their energy level up by eating a healthy snack in between classes.
• Any student who hurts themselves in class or feels unwell should tell their teacher or member of staff immediately.
• The building is a shared facility, and respect must be given to everyone using the facility. There must be no running or shouting in the building or on the grounds.
• If the fire alarm sounds, students, parents and visitors should follow the Fire Evacuation Policy (see below).
• No games are permitted in the car park as vehicles are constantly coming and going.
• Visitors are asked to drive carefully when dropping off and collecting students.
• Smoking is not permitted anywhere on the premises.
• The consumption of alcohol is strictly forbidden, particularly for under-age guests and minors. You should not attend classes whilst under the influence of alcohol if this is likely to affect your ability to participate in a safe and responsible manner.
• No person should take class under the influence of illegal drugs. Inform the FAB should you need to take prescribed medication while on the premises. This must always be disclosed in the Medical Conditions section of your application.

FAB Safe Recruitment Procedure

In order to safeguard and promote the welfare of our pupils, our organisation employs a safe recruitment and selection policy which complies with national and local guidance.

All recruitment procedures involve the following processes:

• All successful applicants including teachers, freelance teachers, contractors, volunteers, administrational and ancillary staff, will undertake an Enhanced CRB/ DBS check.
• All appointed staff will be provided with policies and procedures in relation to safeguarding and promoting welfare, e.g. child protection, anti-bullying, anti-racism, physical intervention / restraint, internet safety and professional conduct.

Photographing Children

Photographs of individual children will only be used if signed agreement has been obtained from a parent or guardian.  General group photographs may be used if no individual can be identified by reason of accompanying data. 

FAB Safe Touch Policy

Physical instruction which involves safe touch is sometimes essential to aid teaching and learning. It may also be appropriate where a child is in distress and needs comforting such as when giving first aid, or as a positive reinforcement.

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