POLICIES
Child Safety and Wellbeing
Storybox Drama is committed to providing a safe and supportive learning environment for all participants. This policy outlines our approach to child safety and wellbeing, and the measures we take to ensure every child has a secure and positive experience. We believe that safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility.
Respectful Behaviour
We support children to treat each other with kindness and respect. Clear, age-appropriate expectations are shared to help everyone feel safe, included, and able to participate. Children are encouraged to express their ideas, set personal boundaries, and join in ways that feel comfortable for them.
Staffing and Supervision
All teaching staff, including school holiday tutors and guest artists, are police vetted every three years.
A parent volunteer is present at all weekly lessons and holiday workshops to support the teacher. We maintain an open-door policy across all teaching spaces.
During school holiday workshops for children aged 4–7, parents/caregivers are responsible for supervising their child’s behaviour and ensuring their safety.
Teachers and parent volunteers are responsible for maintaining awareness of children’s whereabouts at all times. Visitors to the venue are monitored by parent volunteers, and guest teaching artists are supported and supervised by Storybox staff.
Drop-off, Collection and Attendance
Children must be collected by a parent or caregiver at the end of each session. If someone else is collecting a child, parents must inform the teacher in advance.
If a child has not been collected after a lesson or workshop, staff will contact the parent/caregiver and remain with the child until they are safely picked up.
We maintain open communication with children and their families, addressing any concerns promptly. Any suspected child abuse or neglect will be reported in accordance with legal requirements.
Health and Wellbeing
Children’s medical conditions, allergies, and dietary needs are recorded and respected. Children are encouraged to drink water, wash their hands, and follow good hygiene practices.
Teaching staff and parent volunteers are not able to assist with toileting. If your child requires support with this, we ask that a parent or caregiver remains on site.
In school holiday venues where toilet facilities may be shared with the public, parents/caregivers are responsible for accompanying younger children (ages 4–7) to and from the bathroom.
For older children (ages 8–12), children may use the bathroom in pairs, with the knowledge of the teacher before leaving the room, and are expected to return promptly.
Audio, Photo and Video Consent
At enrolment, parents and caregivers will be asked for permission for Storybox Drama to use photos, videos, and children’s artwork for promotional purposes, including print and digital platforms such as our website, emails, and social media.
We respect all family preferences, and permissions will always be followed carefully.
We are committed to ensuring that any images or recordings shared are respectful, appropriate, and aligned with our values.
Emergency Procedures
Evacuation procedures are in place and clearly communicated, and first aid kits are readily accessible at all times. Any incidents or injuries are recorded, and families are informed as appropriate. Up-to-date emergency contact information is required for all participants.
Cancellations and Refunds
If your child is unwell, we kindly ask that they stay home. Please let us know as soon as possible by text if your child will be absent from a class.
We are unable to offer refunds or credits for missed sessions as we need to cover our overhead costs.
If a class needs to be cancelled due to teacher illness or unforeseen circumstances, a make-up class will be arranged.
Watching Classes
We find children often focus better without parents watching the classes, so we ask you to ‘drop and go’ once your child feels settled (usually by the second class). We understand that some children may need support when settling in. Parents are welcome to stay where necessary to help their child feel comfortable. We offer one open class each term, where parents are warmly invited to stay and watch their child’s progress.