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1. Introduction

JK Ballet is committed to providing a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment where all children and young people can learn and enjoy dance. We recognise our duty of care to safeguard and promote the welfare of all pupils and are fully committed to protecting them from harm.

 

This policy applies to all staff, volunteers, and associates working at or on behalf of JK Ballet.

 

2. Legal Framework

This policy has been developed in accordance with the following legislation and guidance:

• Children (Northern Ireland) Order 1995

• Co-operating to Safeguard Children and Young People in Northern Ireland (2017)

• Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups (NI) Order 2007

• Protection of Freedoms Act 2012

• NSPCC and Dance Council UK safeguarding guidance

• UN Convention on the Rights of the Child

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3. Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)

Our Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) for 2025/26 is:
Miss Judith Keyes – School Principal
📞 07547 703840
📧 judithkeyesdance@gmail.com

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All safeguarding concerns must be reported to the DSL immediately.

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4. Aims of the Policy

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• To protect children and young people who attend JK Ballet from harm.

• To provide staff and volunteers with guidance on how to recognise, respond to, and report concerns.

• To create a culture of safety and respect throughout the school.

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5. Safeguarding Principles

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• The welfare of the child is paramount.

• All children, regardless of age, gender, disability, racial heritage, religion, or sexual orientation, have the right to equal protection from harm.

• Working in partnership with children, parents/carers, and other agencies is essential.

 

6. Code of Conduct for Staff and Volunteers

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• Always act in the best interest of the child.

• Maintain appropriate physical boundaries – touch should be minimal, appropriate, and consent-based.

• Never be alone with a child in a private or unobservable situation.

• Use positive behaviour management strategies; never use physical discipline.

• Report any concerns about a child’s welfare or safety to the DSL promptly.

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7. Safer Recruitment

• All staff and volunteers working with children will be subject to an Enhanced AccessNI check.

• References will be taken and verified for all new staff.

• All new staff will complete safeguarding induction training before working with children.

 

8. Recognising Abuse
All staff and volunteers should be alert to signs of:

• Physical abuse

• Emotional abuse

• Sexual abuse

• Neglect

 

9. Responding to Concerns
 

If a child discloses abuse:

• Stay calm, listen carefully, and reassure them they’ve done the right thing by speaking up.

• Do not promise confidentiality — explain that you must report it to keep them safe.

• Record the disclosure in writing as soon as possible, using the child’s own words where appropriate.

• Pass the concern on to the DSL without delay.

 

10. Record-Keeping

• All safeguarding records are stored securely and confidentially.

• Only designated staff have access to these records.

 

11. Photography, Video & Social Media

• Parental/guardian consent is required for all photos and video recordings.

• Images will be used responsibly for promotional or educational purposes only.

• No personal information will accompany published images.

• Children will never be tagged by name on public social media platforms.

 

12. Health and Safety

• Class venues are regularly risk-assessed.

• First aid kits are available on site.

• At least one adult present must be trained in paediatric first aid.

 

13. Online Safety

• Any online classes or communication must be conducted through secure, approved platforms.

• Parents should be present or aware when children take part in online classes.

• No one-to-one virtual tuition is permitted without prior agreement from a parent/guardian.

 

14. Whistleblowing

• Staff are encouraged to raise concerns about poor practice or suspected abuse.

• JK Ballet is committed to a transparent and supportive approach where concerns can be raised without fear of reprisal.

 

15. Review and Updates
 

This policy will be reviewed annually, or sooner if there are changes in legislation or guidance.
Next review due: June 2026

 

Contact Details for Reporting Concerns:

• Miss Judith Keyes (DSL)
  Tel: 07547 703840
  Email: judithkeyesdance@gmail.com

• Social Services Gateway Team (Northern Ireland):
  Tel: 0300 1234 333 (available 24/7)

• NSPCC Helpline:
  Tel: 0808 800 5000

• Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI):
  Tel: 101 or 999 in an emergency