Safeguarding is a critical term frequently associated with educational institutions, particularly schools. It revolves around the fundamental principle of keeping children safe from harm. However, it is important to note that safeguarding extends beyond the school environment. Any organisation or entity that interacts with children bears the responsibility of ensuring their safety, including places like Theatretrain.
At Theatretrain, safeguarding takes on several important dimensions:
DBS Checks
All our staff undergo an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks, previously known as Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) checks. The DBS check serves as a comprehensive verification process, confirming a person’s identity by examining three forms of identification, such as a passport, driver’s license, and a recent utility bill. In addition, applicants must provide a detailed list of their addresses for the past five years. This information is then used to cross-reference police records to identify any potential criminal convictions. DBS checks come in three levels:
- Basic Check: Reveals unspent convictions and conditional cautions.
- Standard Check: Provides information on both spent and unspent convictions, adult cautions, and data from the Police National Computer that has not been filtered in accordance with legislation.
- Enhanced Check with a Check of the Barred Lists: Provides the same information as an enhanced check, plus indicates whether the applicant is on the adults’ barred list, children’s barred list, or both.
Child Protection Training
All our staff are required to undergo child protection training. This training equips them with the knowledge to recognise common signs of abuse and guides them on the appropriate actions to take should a child confide in them.
Designated Safeguarding Lead
Within our Centre we have a designated Safeguarding Lead, usually the Company Director. This individual receives specialised training in identifying signs of abuse, accurate documentation, and reporting of any concerns that may arise.
Body of Persons Application (BOPA)
When we stage performances, we obtain a Body of Persons Application (BOPA) from our local council. This document signifies that we are exempt from the requirement of obtaining individual licenses for children to perform. It ensures that we comply with legislation related to children’s participation in performances. BOPA also assures adherence to proper chaperone ratios and guarantees that children receive adequate breaks and are well cared for during performances.
Legislation Compliance
Our adherence to legislation ensures that children involved in our activities have defined limits on rehearsal and performance durations, as well as their time spent in performance venues. These regulations may not be apparent to parents, but as professionals, we prioritise your child’s safety at all times.
In conclusion, safeguarding at Theatretrain encompasses a range of measures and procedures aimed at protecting children in our care at all times. It is something we take very seriously and something as a parent I thought you should be aware of.
Find out more about our
amazing performing arts classes here
Theatretrain Hitchin
Saturdays
Hitchin Girls School
9.30am-12.30pm
Theatretrain Letchworth
Saturdays
St Christopher’s School
9am-12pm
Theatretrain Stevenage
Saturdays
Marriotts School
1.30pm-4.30pm
