Considering Codes of Practice when Guest Teaching

Half Term Ballet Masterclass

As this week is half term for most schools. My past dance teacher asked me to come back to the dance school I grew up in and teach a ballet masterclass for two age groups (5-11 and 12+). This was such a rewarding experience being able to give back to my dance school where my ballet training initially started many years ago. 

It was a peculiar feeling returning after so many years and this time returning as the teacher rather than student. I took it upon myself to consider the codes of practice which may apply to me when teaching young children and came up with the following thoughts. 

• The teacher should be clear about the excercises set and adapt it as necessary, taking into consideration the age and ability of students. 

• The teacher should adhere to the timings of each class which have previously been agreed. 

• The teacher should use a positive and professional manner when communicating and speaking to students. 

• If there are students with any specialist needs these must be discussed with studio owners/ parents so that action can be taken and plans put into place prior to the event to ensure an enjoyable experience for all. 

• The teacher must pay close attention to the health and wellbeing of all students during the time they are working with them. Immediately informing superiors / parents if any kind of concern arises. 

• The teacher must be extremely careful when making any physical contact with participants. Where necessary it must be ensured that all parties have signed consent forms for this.

• The teacher should respect each individual with whom they work with, ensure that everyone is treated with equal attention and encourage everyone to participate as fully as they can within their own personal boundaries.

• The teacher must ensure they receive signed consent forms for photographs and videos and that these consent forms disclose how the photographs may be used. In the event that one party does not give consent they must not be included within any photographs or video footage.

• If the teacher wishes to use any information about the masterclass afterwards on a blog or for self promotion, they should take care not to name any participants and be careful about the information they display.