policIES

Monaro Dance Centre Enrolment Agreement

1. Waiver of Liability

Monaro Dance Centre Pty Limited (ACN 117 540 128) leases or hires studios for conducting classes, where teachers are employed to supervise students during class times inside the studio. However, teachers are not responsible for supervision outside scheduled class times. Parents/Guardians must:

  • Ensure students arrive on time for their class and depart promptly after.

  • Supervise their child(ren) when waiting between classes or after class dismissal.

All students participate in dance activities at their own risk. Monaro Dance Centre strives to maintain a safe environment but is not liable for accidents or injuries during or outside of classes. Adult participants are responsible for their own safety.

2. Code of Conduct

By signing this agreement, parents/guardians and students agree to:

  • Treat all staff, students, and parents/guardians respectfully.

  • Behave honestly and with integrity within the Monaro Dance Centre community.

Failure to adhere to this code, including verbal or physical abuse or breach of policies, may result in termination of enrolment. In such cases, fees will remain payable up to the termination date.

3. Fees and Payments

  • Responsibility: Parents/Guardians are responsible for all fees and charges associated with participation at Monaro Dance Centre.

  • Direct Debit: Fees are direct-debited each term unless otherwise arranged. Penalties may apply for failed transactions or late payments.

  • Unpaid Fees: Accounts unpaid by term’s end will be referred to a debt collection agency, with associated costs borne by the parent/guardian.

  • Concert Participation: Fees, including costume hire and media levies, must be fully paid to participate in performances.

4. Class Schedules and Pro-Rata Fees

  • Classes are not held on public holidays, during school holidays, or on extreme weather, concert, or rehearsal days unless notified otherwise.

  • No pro-rata adjustments or discounts apply for classes missed due to absences or cancellations beyond Monaro Dance Centre’s control.

5. Missed Classes

  • Missed classes are not refunded or rescheduled for any reason.

6. Additional Costs

Term fees do not include expenses for uniforms, costumes, media purchases, workshops, exams, or competition entries.

7. Enrolment Terms

  • Enrolment at Monaro Dance Centre continues from the time of enrolment for the full calendar year.  Re-enrolment is not required each term. If you wish to cancel or change your enrolment, please submit a written request via email.

  • Payment plans must be arranged via email before the term begins.

8. Media Release

Students' images may be used on Monaro Dance Centre’s social media platforms, website and local newspaper. If you do not wish for this, please notify the studio upon enrolment.

9. Attendance

Each class at Monaro Dance Centre is an important step in a student's dance education. Missing a class may cause a student to fall behind their peers, as many lessons focus on learning choreography for upcoming ballet exams and performances, such as the Mid and End of Year Showcase. It’s crucial for students to feel confident with the choreography and performance work. Missing multiple classes could lead to frustration for both the student and the class, and in some cases, may result in the student being removed from performances.

10. Filming & Photography

  • Filming and photography in class is allowed only with permission from the teacher or choreographer for rehearsal purposes.

  • Due to privacy and copyright laws, recorded footage must not be shared publicly or on social media without the consent of the studio, teacher/choreographer, and subjects.

  • Any choreography learned by a student is the sole property of the studio and cannot be copied or used outside the studio’s scope.

  • Permission from the Director must be granted for any student to use studio choreography at any venue where they are not acting on behalf of the studio.

  • All images, including photographs and videos, of a student are the sole property of the studio and may be used for advertising or promotional purposes at the studio's discretion, unless a special request has been made and approved in writing.

  • Please do not film through windows.

11. Watching Classes

We do not allow any spectators in our classes. This allows the children to focus and maintain our privacy standards. Safety issues and legal responsibilities make it difficult for us to allow students to bring visitors into the classroom.  Students should not invite siblings, other relatives, or friends to their classes with the exception of special events such as ‘Dance for Sick Kids week’ and performances. 

12. Update of Policy

We may update our Policies by posting a new version on our website and in your parent enrolment portal. . You should check the website occasionally to ensure you are familiar with any changes. Active MDC account holders will be advised of any major changes via email.

13. Failure to Comply

In the event of any failure to comply with any of the terms, conditions, codes or policies referred to, Monaro Dance Centre reserves the right to cancel the student’s enrolment and in this situation any fees paid or payable will not be refunded.

Monaro Dance Centre Child Safe Policy

Our Commitment to Child Safety

Monaro Dance Centre is dedicated to providing a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment where children can learn, grow, and experience the joy of dance free from harm. This Child Safe Policy outlines our commitment to child safety, including expectations for behaviour, reporting procedures, and the steps we take to ensure the well being of all students.

Purpose of this Policy

The purpose of this policy is to:

  • Ensure the safety and protection of all children participating in our programs.

  • Prevent child abuse and promote a culture where children feel empowered and supported.

  • Establish clear procedures for handling concerns, complaints, and reports of abuse or misconduct.

  • Provide clear guidelines on appropriate conduct for all staff, instructors, and volunteers.

  • Foster an inclusive and welcoming environment for children of all backgrounds and abilities.

Who this Policy Applies To

This policy applies to all individuals involved with Monaro Dance Centre, including:

  • Management, staff, and dance instructors.

  • Students and their parents/guardians.

  • Volunteers and visitors attending our studio.

It ensures that every child has the right to feel safe, valued, and respected while participating in dance activities.

Understanding Child Abuse

Child abuse refers to any action or inaction that causes harm to a child and can take several forms:

  • Physical abuse – Non-accidental physical injury that causes significant harm.

  • Emotional and psychological abuse – Behaviour that harms a child’s emotional development, self-esteem, or mental health.

  • Sexual abuse – Any form of sexual exploitation or inappropriate behaviour towards a child.

  • Neglect – Failing to provide basic necessities such as food, clothing, supervision, or medical care, resulting in harm.

Child abuse also includes situations where a parent or guardian is unable or unwilling to protect a child from harm.

Responding to Child Safety Concerns

All staff and instructors have a duty of care to act if they witness or suspect child abuse.

If a child is at immediate risk:

  • Call 000 and report to NSW Police immediately.

  • Inform Monaro Dance Centre management as soon as possible.

If you suspect abuse but there is no immediate danger:

  • Report your concerns to the Management/Director of Monaro Dance Centre.

  • A report may need to be made to:

    • NSW Police

    • NSW Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ) Child Protection Unit

All reports will be taken seriously and handled with sensitivity, confidentiality, and professionalism. If further evidence or concerns arise, another report must be made.

Privacy & Confidentiality

Monaro Dance Centre respects the privacy of all individuals involved in any child safety concern. Personal information will only be shared with NSW Police or DCJ if an official investigation is required.

Additional Child Safety Measures

  • Supervision: All pre school classes will have at least one fully qualified teacher and an assistant present.

  • Open door policy: Studio doors will remain unlocked during classes, ensuring visibility and access.

  • Appropriate attire: Uniforms and costumes must be age-appropriate. Inappropriate or overly revealing clothing will not be permitted.

Recruitment & Screening of Staff

Monaro Dance Centre follows best practices when hiring staff and instructors:

  • All applicants must undergo a Working With Children Check (WWCC) before employment.

  • Interviews will include questions about past experience working with children.

  • All staff must acknowledge and sign the Child Safe Policy and Code of Conduct before commencing work.

  • If an allegation is made against a staff member, they will be stood down immediately while an investigation is conducted by the appropriate authorities.

Music & Dance Routine Guidelines

  • Music used in classes must be free from explicit language or inappropriate themes.

  • Dance routines must be age appropriate, avoiding suggestive movements.

  • Studio management will regularly review music choices and choreography to ensure compliance.

Social Media & Online Safety

  • Parents/guardians must give written consent before any photos/videos of their child are used for promotional purposes.

Policy Review & Updates

This policy will be reviewed annually to ensure it remains up to date with NSW child safety regulations. Parents, staff, and community members are encouraged to provide feedback or recommendations.

By adopting this policy, Monaro Dance Centre is actively working to create a safe and nurturing space where children can thrive through dance.

To complement Monaro Dance Centre's Child Safe Policy and ensure alignment with New South Wales (NSW) regulations, the following resources and links are highly relevant:

1. NSW Office of the Children's Guardian

  • Child Safe Standards: The NSW Child Safe Standards provide a framework for creating child-safe organisations. These standards are principle-based and designed to help prevent, detect, and respond effectively to child abuse. ​facebook.com+1ocg.nsw.gov.au+1facebook.com+1

  • Guide to the Child Safe Standards: This comprehensive guide offers detailed information on implementing the Child Safe Standards within your organisation. ​ocg.nsw.gov.au

2. NSW Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ)

  • Children and Families: The DCJ is committed to the safety and well being of children and young people, providing resources and support to protect them from harm, abuse, and neglect. ​dcj.nsw.gov.au

  • Child Protection Services: This section offers guidelines, policies, and legislation relevant to child protection service providers, including resources and training for caseworkers. ​dcj.nsw.gov.au

3. Working With Children Check (WWCC)

  • NSW Working With Children Check: A mandatory screening mechanism for individuals engaged in child-related work in NSW, ensuring they do not pose a risk to children. ​en.wikipedia.org

4. Training and Resources

  • Child Safe Organisations: The NSW Office of the Children's Guardian offers resources and training courses, both online and in-house, to assist organisations in creating child-safe environments. ​lgnsw.org.au

5. Informative Video

  • Introduction to the Child Safe Standards and the Child Safe Scheme: This video provides an overview of the Child Safe Standards and their implementation in NSW.​

By utilising these resources, Monaro Dance Centre can ensure compliance with NSW regulations and reinforce its commitment to providing a safe and nurturing environment for all students.​


Monaro Dance Centre Code of Conduct

At Monaro Dance Centre, we are committed to creating a respectful, supportive, and positive atmosphere where every student can thrive in a safe and nurturing environment. Our studio is a place of learning, encouragement, and dedication to the art of dance.

To uphold these values, we ask that all staff, students, parents, and visitors adhere to the following Code of Conduct. By enrolling at Monaro Dance Centre, you agree to abide by these guidelines.

Failure to comply may result in suspension or termination of enrolment.

We warmly welcome you as part of the Monaro Dance Centre family and look forward to an enjoyable and rewarding dance experience for all.

1. Respect & Behaviour

  • All students, parents, staff, and visitors must treat each other with respect and kindness at all times.

  • Bullying, harassment, bad language, abusive or disruptive behaviour will not be tolerated under any circumstances.

  • We encourage positivity and expect all interactions – in person and online – to reflect the values of our dance community.

2. Student Safety & Supervision

  • The safety of our students is our top priority.

  • Students under 18 must be escorted to and from the studio by an adult.

  • Please ensure students arrive on time for class and are collected promptly afterward.

  • While we strive to provide supervision, we cannot take responsibility for students once their class has finished.

3. Social Media & Online Conduct

  • We ask that students, parents, and visitors refrain from making negative or disrespectful comments about the studio, students, parents, or staff – whether in person or on social media.

  • Cyberbullying or inappropriate online behaviour will not be tolerated.

  • Any concerns should be raised directly with studio management, not via public forums.

4. Studio Etiquette & Parent Participation

  • Parents/guardians and family members are not permitted inside the studio during classes, unless invited by the teacher.

  • Viewing weeks are scheduled at specific times during the year – families will be notified via email.

  • If parents or siblings need to wait in the foyer, please keep noise to a minimum and ensure siblings are supervised at all times.

5. Respect for Studio Property

  • Our studio is a shared space – please help keep it tidy by using bins and treating the facilities with care.

  • Any damage caused must be repaired or replaced at the responsible party’s expense.

6. Communication & Studio Updates

  • Parents/guardians are responsible for staying up to date with studio events and important information.

  • Updates will be provided via email, newsletters, and our private Facebook Members Page.

  • We encourage open communication – if you have any questions or concerns, please speak directly with:

    • The on-duty desk staff

    • A teacher or the Principal (by requesting a meeting via email).

7. Contacting Staff & Teachers

  • Parents/students must not contact teachers via social media, personal emails, or private phone numbers regarding studio matters.

  • To notify us of absences, injuries, or general inquiries, please use the appropriate contact details below.

8. Contact Information

For all inquiries, please contact us through the following official channel:

📧 Contact Us Page