1. Purpose of the Policy
The purpose of this policy is to ensure the safety, well-being, and protection of all children attending our in-person public speaking course. We are committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for all participants and to safeguarding them from harm, abuse, or neglect.
2. Scope
This policy applies to:
- All staff, instructors, assistants, and volunteers involved in the course
- Children enrolled in the program
- Parents and guardians
- Visitors present during the course sessions
3. Principles
We are committed to the following safeguarding principles:
- Child-first approach: The safety and welfare of the child is our top priority.
- Zero tolerance for abuse: Any form of abuse or exploitation will not be tolerated.
- Transparency: We maintain clear communication with parents/guardians.
- Parental involvement: Parents/guardians are welcome to observe or stay during the course.
- Confidentiality: Any child protection concerns will be handled confidentially and appropriately.
4. Supervision and Venue Safety
- The course will take place in a rented venue that is assessed for basic safety, cleanliness, and child-friendliness.
- Children will only be released to the authorized parent/guardian listed at the time of registration.
- All entrances/exits will be monitored during class hours to ensure child safety.
5. Arrival and Dismissal Procedures
- Parents must drop off and pick up children on time.
- Children will not be permitted to leave the premises alone unless prior written permission is provided.
- Parents/guardians are welcome and encouraged to stay for the duration of the course sessions.
- A unique code word must be provided by the parent or guardian for each child, which will be required at the time of pick-up after the course.
6. Staff Conduct and Responsibilities
All instructors, assistants, and volunteers working with children will:
- Be vetted and briefed on child safety practices
- Act professionally and respectfully at all times
- Avoid being alone with a child in an isolated or private area
- Not engage in any inappropriate physical contact, language, or behavior
Any concerns regarding a staff member’s behavior will be taken seriously and investigated promptly.
7. Code of Conduct for Children
All children are expected to:
- Treat peers and adults with kindness and respect
- Refrain from physical aggression, bullying, or inappropriate language
- Follow the instructions of instructors and staff
Failure to comply may result in the child being removed from the course for their own or others' safety.
8. Reporting Concerns
- Any concerns regarding a child’s welfare, behavior, or potential abuse must be reported immediately to the course organizer.
- All reports will be documented and, if necessary, escalated to appropriate child protection authorities.
- We will handle all reports confidentially and sensitively.
9. Health and Medical Safety
- Parents must inform the provider of any medical conditions, allergies, or specific needs at the time of registration.
- Emergency contact details must be current.
- Children who are unwell should not attend the course. If a child becomes ill during class, the parent will be contacted immediately.
- For everyones safety this course is a nut free zone and kids are not allowed to bring nuts and nut products
10. Media and Photography Consent
- Photos or videos may be taken during sessions for training or promotional use.
- Media consent forms will be provided to parents/guardians prior to any photography or video recording.
- No media will be used without signed consent.
11. Review of Policy
This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if there are significant changes to safeguarding regulations or course operations.
12. Acknowledgment
By enrolling in the course, parents/guardians confirm they have read and understood this Child Safeguarding Policy and agree to its terms.