Terms & Conditions

En Pointe Terms and Conditions

Disclaimer for Participation in Studio Classes

Please read and agree to the following conditions before taking part in any class at En Pointe.

Responsibility and supervision

All students participate in classes under the supervision of an En Pointe teacher. Although every reasonable measure is taken to ensure a safe environment, physical activity always carries some risk. Parents and guardians accept responsibility for their child or children’s general well being and behaviour while they are on the premises and agree that students must follow all safety instructions issued by staff.

By attending studio sessions you agree to the following:

• You will ensure that your child or children arrive prepared, focused and ready to take part safely in class.

• Students must follow teacher instructions at all times for their own safety and the safety of others.

• Students must use the studio space with care and respect for those around them.

• Any equipment used in class must be handled correctly and only as directed by the teacher.

• Parents and guardians accept responsibility for supervising their children before class begins and once the class has ended while in waiting areas or reception spaces.

• En Pointe cannot be held responsible for accidents, injuries or damage to personal property that occur as a result of a student not following instructions or behaving in an unsafe manner.

Terms and Conditions

Fees, Deposits and Refunds

A fee is charged for each class enrolled during a term.

Students are expected to attend all scheduled classes.

Fees will be pro rata only when a student begins mid term.

Refunds will not be given for non attendance.

Refunds will not be given when a class has been cancelled and rescheduled.

Fees are currently exempt from VAT.

Register, Attendance and Absence

A register is maintained for every class to support health, safety and security.

If a student is absent for four or more consecutive weeks, a refund of ninety percent of the fees for those missed classes will be given with a valid medical certificate. The certificate must be provided within one month of the absence otherwise no refund will be issued.

If a class is cancelled due to teacher illness, a health epidemic or any other expected or unexpected event, En Pointe will arrange a replacement session. This may take place on a different day or time and may extend the term dates. Replacement classes may also be delivered via Zoom. Refunds will not be given in these circumstances.

Late Payment

The payer will receive verbal and written notice if payment has not been received.

En Pointe reserves the right to charge a late payment fee if payment is outstanding after the first class of a new term.

Termination of Attendance

En Pointe reserves the right to ask a student to leave the school if fees remain unpaid after the start of term.

Discounts

A sibling discount may be applied to the youngest child when two or more siblings attend.

The discount will be removed if payment is not received.

If the eldest sibling leaves during a term, the discount will not continue into the next term if only one sibling remains.

Waiver

Light physical contact by teaching staff may be required for correction and support. Parents who have concerns should speak with the Principal.

Code of Conduct

A Code of Conduct will be explained to all students. Failure to follow the Code may result in removal from class. En Pointe reserves the right to refuse enrolment or continued attendance. No refund will be given if removal results from a breach of the Code of Conduct.

Content and Photography

En Pointe may occasionally take photographs or short video clips during classes for printed or online promotional use. Any concerns should be directed to the Principal.

Uniform

En Pointe maintains a strict dress code. Students must arrive in the correct En Pointe dance uniform. Other brands are not permitted. Students should always be neat and professional in appearance.

Dance Studios and Reception

Any damage to studio spaces, reception areas, the kitchenette or property within the building may result in removal from the school without refund and may lead to an invoice for repair or replacement.

Disclaimer of Responsibility Agreement and Parental Permission

Parents or guardians give permission for their child to take part in activities at En Pointe and acknowledge that En Pointe has no responsibility for the child before, after or between classes.

Parents confirm they have provided their child with clear instructions and that the child understands how to behave safely while waiting for a lesson to begin or waiting to be collected.

Parents agree that En Pointe, or any person acting in support of the school, carries no responsibility or liability for the child during these waiting times.

Parents give permission for En Pointe to seek emergency medical assistance if judged necessary.

Parents acknowledge they have been informed of the En Pointe Child Protection Procedure and know how to access it.

Child Protection Policy

This Child Protection Policy applies to all members of En Pointe including staff, volunteers and customers. It supports best safeguarding practice during classes, rehearsals and performances.

En Pointe commits to the following:

• Ensuring every teacher holds a valid DBS certificate.

• Ensuring children are signed in.

• Ensuring parents sign to confirm they understand that En Pointe does not take responsibility for children in the waiting area before, after or between lessons.

• Providing an appropriate number of qualified chaperones during events or performances.

En Pointe recognises that children and young people are vulnerable and must be protected at all times. All adults within En Pointe must act transparently and uphold the welfare of every child.

Concerns regarding the conduct of any En Pointe member must be reported to Donya Keys on 07557 355562, the designated safeguarding contact. If the safeguarding officer is unavailable, the procedures outlined below must be followed.

This policy is written in accordance with The Children Act 2004 and Working Together to Safeguard Children guidance 2015.

Principles

• The welfare of the child is always paramount.

• Families will be supported and respected.

• The rights and feelings of children and families will be listened to.

• Adults in positions of responsibility will uphold the best interests of children.

• Everyone will be treated fairly and with respect.

Child Protection Procedures

1. Immediate Action to Ensure Safety

Immediate action may be required at any time.

• In an emergency, call for medical support or take the child to Accident and Emergency.

• If a child is in immediate danger, contact the police who can act under a Police Protection Order.

2. Recognition of Abuse or Neglect

Abuse may occur through action or inaction. It may be caused by family members, carers, professionals or strangers.

Physical abuse

Includes hitting, shaking, throwing, poisoning, burning, suffocating or fabricating symptoms of illness.

Emotional abuse

Includes persistent ill treatment causing adverse effects on emotional development. May include making a child feel worthless or frightened.

Sexual abuse

Includes any activity involving a child in sexual acts or exposure to sexual content.

Neglect

Includes persistent failure to meet a child’s essential needs such as food, shelter, protection, medical care or emotional support.

Adults at En Pointe must recognise signs of possible abuse and respond according to this policy.

There are circumstances where concerns must not be discussed with parents, including suspected sexual abuse, organised abuse or situations where the parent may present a risk.

When a child speaks to you

• Listen carefully and do not question them.

• Allow them to speak freely.

• Record what they say with detail and accuracy.

• Use their own words.

• Reassure them and explain that you must share the information to keep them safe.

• Do not ask them to repeat their account.

3. Consulting about a Concern

Speak to the designated safeguarding lead as soon as possible. If they are implicated, contact Children Services directly.

Consultation should take place when:

• You remain unsure after internal discussion.

• There is disagreement about whether concern exists.

• You cannot reach the designated safeguarding lead.

• The concern involves a member of staff.

Consultation is not the same as a referral, but may lead to one.

4. Making a Referral

A referral provides information to Children's Services or the police so they can investigate concerns.

Parents should normally be informed unless doing so places a child at further risk.

In an emergency where the concern involves a person unknown to the child, contact the police immediately.

Be prepared to give relevant information, including:

• Your own details

• Details of the child and family

• Nature of the concern

• Any immediate risks

• Any professionals involved with the family

• Whether parental consent has been obtained

Following a referral:

• Keep a written record.

• Send written confirmation to Children's Services within 48 hours.

• Record all agreed actions and decisions.

5. Confidentiality

All records must be kept securely and shared only when essential for safeguarding.

Child protection needs take priority over confidentiality. When unsure, consult Children's Services.