The society will ensure that:
- all juniors will be treated equally and with respect and dignity.
- The welfare of each child will always be put first.
- a balanced relationship based on mutual trust will be built which empowers the children to share in the decision-making process.
- enthusiastic and constructive feedback will be given rather than negative criticism.
- bullying will not be accepted or condoned; see separate anti-bullying policy.
- a Safeguarding Officer is in post to whom any complaints or requests for advice or support can be made by anyone feeling that they are the victim of harassment.
- swift action will be taken to stop any inappropriate verbal or physical behaviour.
- it holds a register of every child involved with the society and retains a contact name and number close at hand in case of emergencies;
- parents and juniors are kept informed of rehearsal schedules and of any changes that may be required.
- parents are contacted before rehearsals start to obtain formal consent to their child taking part and their agreement to the society’s Code of Conduct.
Juniors agree that:
- They will attend rehearsals regularly and punctually,
- They will attend all rehearsals, unless the production team or call sheet confirms otherwise, informing the director in advance of any holidays or previous commitments that would prevent non-attendance.
- They will be signed in and out of rehearsals by their parent or guardian.
- They will behave responsibly, following instructions which may be given to them by the director, stage manager or chaperone.
- They will treat others with respect and kindness.
- They will remain in the hall for the duration of the rehearsal.
- They will not use mobile phones during rehearsals or performances unless it is break time and under no circumstances will they take photographs in changing rooms or backstage unless permission is sought.
- They will attend appropriately dressed for rehearsals preferably in an Orchard Players or black t-shirt, black, black leggings/joggers/shorts with hair tied back and appropriate footwear for dancing.
- They will not bring to rehearsals any items that may cause offense or concern.
- (for those aged under 12) - they will remain in the building until collected by a parent at the end of a performance
- (for those aged between 12 and 16 with written authorization by a parent to leave the premises) – they will notify the chaperone/director before leaving.
Parents agree that:
- Their child will attend rehearsals regularly at the appointed time.
- Where their child is unable to attend rehearsals for a valid reason, the director is contacted in advance to notify them of the situation.
- Their child is made aware of the importance of adhering to the code of conduct and the requirement to comply with instructions from the director (during rehearsals), stage manager (during productions) and chaperones (throughout) which will ensure both their safety and the safety of others.
- They will commit to supporting the group as parent help, either as licensed chaperones, parent backstage helpers or as front of house for at least one night of show week.
- Where their child is under the age of 12, a parent will enter the building to collect them at the end of a rehearsal or production; If the child is going home with someone other than their parent or guardian, the parent will inform the director/production team
- Where their child is aged between 12 and 16, a parent will give written authorization if they agree to their child/ren leaving the building for collection outside (see end of form).
- The taking of photographs or video recordings are strictly prohibited in rehearsal time or show performances, unless being filmed for rehearsal purposes by the director/choreographer and shared on the members Facebook page only. If any parent/guardian or person known to a group member breaks this clause, it could result in the membership of the group being terminated for the said member.
- Directors must be allowed to manage the rehearsal space effectively. When they are addressing adult or junior cast members, it is entirely reasonable to ask for quiet and cooperation from everyone present. Undermining that authority - particularly in front of the juniors - not only disrupts the rehearsal but also sets a poor example.