Child Safety & Wellbeing Policy

At Chengwu Guo Ballet, the safety, wellbeing, and growth of our students are our top priority. This policy outlines our commitment to creating a professional, inclusive, and child-safe environment for all dancers.

1. Commitment to a Safe Learning Environment

  • Chengwu Guo Ballet maintains a zero-tolerance approach to abuse, harassment, or discrimination.

  • All staff and volunteers are responsible for upholding the dignity, rights, and safety of every student.

  • Child safety practices are discussed regularly in staff meetings and embedded in daily teaching.

2. Student Empowerment & Voice

  • Students are encouraged to speak up if they feel unsafe or have concerns about their training environment.

  • Feedback from students is valued and used to improve teaching practices.

  • Concerns may be reported to class teachers or the studio leadership team.

3. Equity, Inclusion & Diversity

  • We celebrate and respect diversity across culture, ability, gender, sexual orientation, and personal identity.

  • All students are treated equitably, fostering an inclusive and supportive atmosphere.

4. Supervision & Studio Access

  • Students are supervised during all classes, rehearsals, workshops, and events.

  • Safe entry and exit procedures are in place to protect all students.

5. Liability & Health

  • Dance is a physically demanding activity; injuries may occur. Chengwu Guo Ballet, its teachers, and staff are not liable for personal injuries or loss/damage to property.

  • Students must inform instructors of any physical limitations and consult a physician if unsure about participation.

  • The studio may arrange medical transportation at the student’s expense in an emergency.

  • Students are encouraged to follow warm-up, hydration, and injury-prevention practices. Illness or injury must be reported to instructors, and safe return-to-class procedures will be followed.

6. Physical Contact

  • Ballet training may require physical contact for alignment, correction, or guidance.

  • All contact is professional, safe, and focused on enhancing learning.

7. Anti-Discrimination & Anti-Harassment

  • The school prohibits all forms of discrimination, harassment, or bullying.

  • Every member of the community has the right to a safe environment free from discrimination based on race, age, religion, ancestry, gender, sexual orientation, disability, or other personal characteristics.

8. Child Protection Screening & Staff Training

  • All staff and volunteers undergo thorough screening, including Working With Children Checks, reference checks, and professional background verification.

  • Staff receive regular training in child safety, safeguarding, and professional conduct.

9. Photo & Video Consent Policy

  • Chengwu Guo Ballet occasionally captures photos and videos of classes, rehearsals, workshops, and performances for promotional, educational, and social media purposes.

  • By enrolling with Chengwu Guo Ballet, you consent to your child (or yourself, if an adult student) being photographed or recorded for these purposes.

  • If you do not wish to have your child or yourself included in any photos or videos, please notify us in writing via email at contact@chengwuguoballet.com.au. We will make every effort to respect your request.

10. Online Safety & Digital Communication

  • Online communication between staff and students is professional, monitored, and in line with child safety guidelines.

  • Private messaging via personal social media accounts between staff and students is not permitted.

11. Reporting Concerns

  • All reports of unsafe behavior or abuse are taken seriously and handled promptly.

  • Confidentiality is maintained during investigations.

  • Students and parents may report concerns to:

    • Studio Owner: Chengwu Guo – contact@chengwuguoballet.com.au

    • Directly to teachers

12. Risk Management & Emergency Procedures

  • Regular risk assessments are conducted across studio spaces and activities.

  • Safety is considered in performances, excursions, and events.

  • Emergency procedures for fire, medical, or urgent incidents are in place and communicated to staff, students, and parents.

13. Confidentiality & Privacy

  • Student records, health information, and incident reports are stored securely and handled confidentially.

14. Continuous Improvement & Review

  • Child safety practices are reviewed annually and updated based on feedback from staff, students, and families.

  • Continuous improvement ensures the school aligns with best practices and current regulations.

15. Family & Community Engagement

  • Families are informed about child-safe practices and encouraged to participate.

  • Communication is maintained via newsletters, emails, and meetings.

  • Family feedback is welcomed to enhance safety and wellbeing initiatives.

16. Code of Conduct

  • Students, parents, and staff are expected to act with respect, follow instructions, and maintain professionalism.

  • Breaches of conduct may result in warnings, suspension, or termination of enrolment.

17. Policy Review & Approval

  • This Child Safe & Wellbeing Policy is reviewed annually or as required to ensure it remains current, effective, and aligned with best practices and regulatory standards.

  • The Chengwu Guo Ballet leadership team is responsible for the review, updates, and formal approval of this policy.

  • Any significant updates will be communicated to staff, students, and families to ensure ongoing awareness and compliance.