prospectus - speak up studiospeakupstudio.com.au/.../2014/01/prospectus-2015-web.pdftues 1st dec...

�Speak Up Studio Prospectus 2015 Page �1

2015 Prospectus

Table of Contents

Business Details 3 Term Dates 3 Welcome 4 School Aims 5 Our Approach 5 Our Teachers 6 Program Descriptions 8 Primary Drama Syllabus 10 Performance Opportunities 11 Fees 13 Terms and Conditions 14 Code of Conduct 17 Guidelines for Parents 20 Drop off and pick up of students 20 The use of images of children 21 Strategies for communication and support 22 Complaints 22 Speak Up Studio’s Commitment to Child Safety 24 Receiving and reporting disclosures of harm 25 What to do when a disclosure is made 27 Blue Card Requirements 30 Child Disclosure Incident Report 32 Risk Management Strategy 33 Risk Assessment 35


Business Details

Business Name: Speak Up Studio Pty LtdABN: 43 167 006 962

Contact Details

Principal: Miss Cathy ClurPhone: 1300 SPEAK UP (1300 773 258)

0447 790 256 Address: 2 Windsor Rd, Red Hill, 4059.Email: [email protected] Website: www.speakupstudio.com.auFacebook: www.facebook.com/speakupstudio

Term Dates

Term Dates Public Holidays Speak Up Dates Parent Watching

Week Free Trial Week

1 Tues 27th Jan - Thurs 2nd April none Mon 2nd Feb -

Fri 27th MarchMon 16th March - Fri 20th March

Mon 23rd March - Fri 27th March

2 Mon 20th April - Fri 26th June

Mon 8th Jun

Mon 27th April - Mon 22nd June

Tues 9th June - Mon 15th June

Tues 16th June - Mon 22nd June

3 Mon 13th July - Fri 18th Sept

Wed 12th Aug

Mon 20th July - Fri 11th Sept

Mon 31st Aug - Fri 4th Sept + Wed 9th Sept

Mon 7th Sept - Fri 11th Sept + Wed 16th Sept

4

Mon 6th Oct - Fri 11th Dec

Mon 19th Oct (pupil free day)

Mon 12 Oct - Fri 4th Dec

Mon 30th Nov - Fri 4th Dec

Monday classes and private school classes on Wed, Thurs, Fri to make up missed time with additional lesson length (2 x 45 min lessons for chatterbees or 3 x 60 minute lessons for chatterboxes) due to 19/10/15 pupil free day, and Tues 1st Dec private school end of term four date.


mailto:[email protected]

http://www.speakupstudio.com.au

http://www.facebook.com/speak

Welcome

20th January, 2015

Dear Parent,

Thank you for your interest in Speak Up Studio. We are a speech and drama studio based Brisbane. Our aim is to share our passion for drama and communication and to encourage children to develop a love of reading and literature.

This prospectus has been designed to present what our studio offers, and how we can make a difference in your child’s life through drama.

If you have any questions about the information presented in this prospectus, please feel free to contact us our contact details are provided on page 2.

We look forward to hearing from you in the future.

Kind regards,

Miss Cathy Cathy Clur Owner, Director and Teacher


School Aims

At Speak Up Studio, we are dedicated to creating exciting and engaging drama programs that encourage children to be positive about speaking up.

We aim to: • Provide high standard of tuition in speech and drama; • Provide a positive, non competitive class atmosphere that encourages

emotional development;• Nurture a love of presenting and performing;• Share our belief in the power of books and poetry to foster a love of

reading and literature;• Provide encouragement and support to all students;• Partner with schools who share our belief in the power of drama; and• Provide a safe learning environment for our staff and students.

Our Approach

Speak Up Studio prides itself on offering the highest quality speech and drama tuition in Brisbane. We believe that every child is special and we love to see them learn and grow into confident young people. What sets us apart from other drama providers? Classes for to different age groups • Our group speech and drama syllabus has been developed with specific

age groups in mind;• Class sizes are limited to ensure each child receives individual attention.

Amazing teaching teams • Highly trained;• Well paid (our teachers are paid for preparation time, class time and

communication time!);• Very experienced; and • Regularly participating in professional development.

Modern services for modern families• Convenient locations;• Online enrolment (including credit card payment);• Electronic communication by email and text;• Payment plans available.


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Our Teachers

Miss Cathy Clur

Miss Cathy is a talented teacher who has facilitated Speech and Drama in both group and individual settings for over six years. Cathy studied speech and drama throughout both primary and high school, and fully appreciates the benefits speech and drama has to offer. She is passionate about helping kids reach their full potential.

“My mantra is confidence, creativity, communication. Perfect these skills – believe in yourself, think outside the box, and communicate well with others – and where can you go wrong?”

With a strong background in drama and performance, Cathy brings Speech and Drama to life! She has a huge collection of resources (she promises that she can find a poem to fit any student) and she is very creative when it comes to developing activities that help kids engage with their voices and with literature.

Cathy studied Speech and Drama throughout school, completed exams and eventually worked her way to completing the teaching qualifications with the AMEB. In 2006, Cathy began working for her then Speech and Drama Teacher, Sally Symonds. She worked under the guidance of Sally for four years, devoting many hours to perfecting her teaching style and her lesson planning skills. During these years, Cathy also completed a film degree, graduating from Griffith Film School at the end of 2010.

Cathy started Speak Up Studio in 2011 with only four students. Since then, Speak Up Studio has worked with thousands of Brisbane children, and is growing every week.

Miss Maddie Fairley

Miss Maddie has been writing, developing an teaching musical theatre and drama programs in Brisbane dance schools and academies since 2008. A long time dancer and singing herself, Maddie has trained in varying forms of dance, singing and acting. Since 1995 she has trained in Ballet, tap, jazz, modern, contemporary, hip hop, song and dance, and musical theatre. Over her years in dance she has completed RAD, FATD, BBDS exams in Ballet, tap, modern and jazz, to a level at which she is now able to teach.

“Every child can perform. Every child can sing, dance and act. Sometimes they just need a teacher to let them know they are natural performers.”


Maddie holds a Bachelor degree in Arts from the University of Queensland, majoring in Drama and English Literature as well as a Secondary Education Degree also from UQ. In 2014, Maddie will commence her Masters in Education.

Miss Frankie Schmoll

Miss Frankie is a dedicated and enthusiastic drama teacher who has been teaching drama classes and workshops since 2011. Frankie has had a passion for acting, performing and drama since her first taste at her high-school Drama class in 2002. She has always loved the feeling of being up on stage and telling a story for audiences.

“You don't need wings to fly when you can soar with confidence.”

Frankie has been performing in plays since high-school and graduated from Queensland University of Technology with a Bachelor of Creative Industries majoring in Drama and Interdisciplinarity. Since then she has gained experience as a Stage Manager in theatrical productions with 4MBS Classic FM, THAT Production Company, and White Rabbit Theatre. She has also gained experience with Production Design on various independent short films, as well as Costume Design which utilises her sewing skills.

Miss Frankie loves anything to do with making, creating and imagination. She has an upcycle project where she makes a fabulous dress every month out of second hand bed sheets. She has also gained experience with puppet making, origami, hula hooping, ribbon twirling, facepainting and all sorts of craft for children during her time with Brisbane-based multi-arts provider, Bazil Grumble.

Frankie has been a nanny since 2006 and also performs as Fairy Princess Marigold with Fairy Queen Productions at birthday parties. Frankie loves working with kids and hopes to do more in the future!


Program Descriptions

ChatterbugsA program for kindy-age children. Length: 30 minsThis play based program supports kindy-aged students, as they prepare to enter prep. Activities focus on self expression to build confidence, speaking clearly and telling stories. Themes include: Me, Teddy Bear’s Picnic, Stories, and Puppets.

ChatterbeesA two year program for prep, grade one and two students.Length: 30 minsA fun and engaging program that supports grade one and two students as they begin to read, write and become more involved in school life. Activities focus on self expression to build confidence, using our voices in dynamic ways, telling stories and working as a team. Classes use a range of engaging texts to begin to develop a love of reading and literature. Themes include: Magic, Amazing Creatures, Pirates and Mermaids, Circus, Skating Around Town, and Superheros.

ChatterboxesA three year program for students in grade three to six.Length: 45 minsA program for older students who seek to develop their presentation skills, communication style and self confidence. Activities focus on mime and movement, creative language, interpreting different kinds of texts and improvisation (just to name a few!) Themes include: Rhyme Time, Twisted Fairytales, Crazy Characters, Monologues, Schoolyard Fun, Acting for Camera, Plays, Shake It (Shakespeare for kids), and Improvisation.

ChatterbuddiesA two year program, for students in grade five and six.Length: 45 minsA challenging program for aspiring leaders.Students will continue to develop self confidence and communication skills while learning about leadership, team work and the best ways to combine voice and language, to motivate and inspire. Activities focus on improvisation, public speaking, creative and persuasive language and team skills.


DiscobeesA musical theatre program for students in grade three to six. Length: 45minsA musical theatre program for singer-dancer-actors! This high energy program is for students who love to perform and want to get get even better. Activities focus on vocal technique, phrasing, movement, choreography, body language and acting skills. Themes include: Disney, Seussical, Broadway, Mary Poppins, and more!

DiscoboxesA musical theatre program for high school students . Length: 60 minsDuring this year-long program, students will spend the first three terms developing skills in musical theatre (term one - acting, term two - singing, term three - dancing) and the final term rehearsing to perform in our annual concert. This comprehensive approach makes Discoboxes the ultimate musical theatre class!


Primary Drama Syllabus


Program Chatterbugs Chatterbees Chatterboxes Chatterbuddies Discobees Discoboxes

ContentSpeech

and Drama

Speech and

Drama

Speech and

Drama

Speech and

DramaMusical Theatre

Musical Theatre

Age Kindy Prep - 2 3 - 6 5 & 6 3 - 6 7 - 12

1st year

Term 1 Me Elves and Fairies

Rhyme Time 1 Improv. 1 Broadway 1 Acting

Term 2 Puppets Circus Magic Public Speaking Mary Poppins Singing

Term 3 Stories Amazing Creatures

Crazy Characters

Persuasive Speaking Disney 1 Dancing

Term 4 Annual Concert

2nd year

Term 1 Me Pirates and Mermaids Monologues Improv. 2 Broadway 2 Acting

Term 2 Puppets Skating Around Town

Rhyme Time 2 Shakespeare Suesical Singing

Term 3 Stories Superhero Monologues Auditions Disney 2 Dancing

Term 4 Annual Concert

Performance Opportunities

Parent Watching Week

At the end of each term, Speak Up Studio holds parent watching week for all of our group classes. This is an opportunity for parents to their child in their learning environment, and for students to show parents what they have learnt in speech and drama during the term.

Please see page 3 for parent watching week dates.

Annual Concert

Our 2015 concert will be held on Saturday 28th of November this year. The theme of the concert is a secret until later in the year! Shhhh!

Speak Up Studio’s annual concert is held at the end of each year and all students are encouraged to participate. The concert is a wonderful way for students to gain performance experience, and for families and friends to celebrate their development.

The concert is optional however, once committed, students are required to participate. All rehearsals will take place during normal class time, and students will only be required to attend one extra rehearsal – the dress rehearsal – one week before the show.


A fee (of about $100 per student) is charged to cover costume hire charges, venue and technical fees and staff wages for concert days.

Participation in the performance is optional and students are still able to attend classes until the end of the year, regardless of concert participation.


Day Time Venue Class Type Teacher

Monday 7:45am to 8:30am Christ the King Graceville Chatterboxes Cathy

Monday 3:00pm to 3:30pm Graceville State School Chatterbees Maddie

Monday 3:30pm to 4:15am Graceville State School Chatterboxes Maddie

Monday 4:15pm to 5:00pm Graceville State School Discobees Maddie

Monday 3:00pm to 6:00pm Red Hill Studio Private Class Cathy

Tuesday 7:30am to 8:15am Redeemer Lutheran College Chatterboxes Cathy

Tuesday 7:45am to 8:15am Christ the King Graceville Chatterbees Maddie

Tuesday 8:00am to 8:30am Payne Road State School Chatterbees Frankie

Tuesday 10:00am to 10:30am Red Hill Studio Chatterbugs Frankie

Tuesday 3:00pm to 3:30pm St Joseph's Corinda Chatterbees Cathy

Tuesday 3:30pm to 4:00pm St Joseph's Corinda Chatterbees Cathy

Tuesday 4:00pm to 4:45pm St Joseph's Corinda Chatterboxes Cathy

Tuesday 3:45pm to 4:00am Bardon State School Discobees Maddie

Tuesday 3:15pm to 3:45pm Bardon State School Chatterbees Maddie

Tuesday 5:00pm to 6:00pm Red Hill Studio Private Class Maddie

Wednesday 7:30am to 8:15am Redeemer Lutheran College Chatterboxes Cathy

Wednesday 7:45am to 8:30am Payne Road State School Chatterboxes Frankie

Wednesday 7:45am to 8:30am Bardon State School Chatterboxes Maddie

Wednesday 10:00am to 10:30am Red Hill Studio Chatterbugs Frankie

Wednesday 3:00pm to 3:30pm Holy Family School Chatterbees Maddie

Wednesday 3:30pm to 4:15pm Holy Family School Chatterboxes Maddie

Wednesday 3:45pm to 4:30pm Holy Family School Discobees Maddie

Wednesday 3:15pm to 3:45pm Oakleigh State School Chatterbees Frankie

Wednesday 3:45pm to 4:40pm Oakleigh State School Chatterbees Frankie

Thursday 3:00pm to 6:00pm Red Hill Studio Private Class Cathy

Thursday 7:45am to 8:15am Redeemer Lutheran College Chatterbees Cathy

Thursday 8:00am to 8:30am The Gap State School Chatterbees Maddie

Thursday 3:15pm to 3:45pm Chapel Hill State School Chatterbees Frankie

Thursday 3:45pm to 4:30pm Chapel Hill State School Chatterbees Frankie

Thursday 3:15pm to 3:45pm Kenmore South State School Chatterbees Maddie

Thursday 3:45pm to 4:30pm Kenmore South State School Chatterboxes Maddie

Thursday 3:00pm to 6:00pm Red Hill Studio Private Class Cathy

Friday 7:45am to 8:30am The Gap State School Chatterboxes Maddie

Friday 3:00pm to 3:45pm The Gap State School Chatterboxes Maddie

Friday 3:45pm to 4:30pm The Gap State School Discobees Maddie

Friday 4:30pm to 5:30pm The Gap State School Discoboxes Maddie

Saturday 10:00am to 10:30am Red Hill Studio Chatterbees Frankie

Saturday 10:30am to 11.15am Red Hill Studio Chatterboxes Frankie

Draft Timetable (subject to change)

Fees


Class Grade Lesson Type Length Fee Fee inc

GST Year total

Chatterbubs Kindy S & D 30 mins $120 $132 $528

Chatterbees prep - 2 S & D 30 mins $150 $165 $660

Chatterboxes 3 - 6 S & D 45 mins $180 $198 $792

Discobees prep - 6 MT 45 mins $180 $198 $792

Discoboxes 7 - 12 MT 60 mins $210 $231 $924

Private Lesson S & D 30 mins $320 $352 $1408



Workshop 2.5 hours $41 $45

Workshop 8 hours $100 $110

Terms and Conditions

By enrolling in a Speak Up Studio program, you agree to these terms and conditions:

SafetySpeak Up Studio is a save environment. Bullying and unacceptable language will not be tolerated. Speak Up Studio reserves the right to refuse any student that presents a disciplinary problem to staff or a threat to the safety and well being of other children. Parents will be advised of problems only once and if bad behaviour continues, the student will be removed from the class with no refund.

Speak Up Studio takes all reasonable steps to ensure classes are safe and that activities are controlled. By attending classes you agree to discharge Speak Up Studio from any liability, loss or damage or any other claim associated with the attendance of your children at Speak Up Studio classes or workshops.

Payment and non payment of feesFees are due before the first lesson of each term. Accounts will be emailed to current customers two weeks before the start of classes. Fees may be paid in advance by credit card, internet banking transfer or Paypal, or with cash at your first lesson. Speak Up Studio no longer accepts cheques. Prompt payment of accounts will prevent the school from spending unnecessary administration time following up payments. Late payments will incur a $10 charge for each week that they are late.

Term 4 lesson fees do not include concert fees, which are only charged if students wish to participate in the concert. This fee (usually around $100 per student) covers venue hire and staff wages for concert days.

Trial lessonsSpeak Up Studio holds regular organise regular trial/taster sessions (usually at the end of each school term) and also may offer special workshops at holiday times to introduce potential new students to our studio.

Speak Up Studio does not offer trial lessons part way through the term as this can disrupt our current students. Our experience is that more than one attendance is necessary to assess whether the Speak Up Studio works for your child, and as such, we offer a two classes for $30 deposit system – contact us for more details.


Make Up LessonsMake up lessons are not available for missed group classes or workshops. Our costs remain the same weather or not children attend. You are not required to give any notice, though it would be appreciated.

Make up lessons are available for missed individual classes. Parents must provide at least one week’s notice if children are unable to attend an individual class and lessons will be organised at a time convenient to the studio.

Re-enrolment and withdrawalRe-enrolment from term to term (and year to year) is an automatic procedure. This is to cut down on repetitive administration each term, and to avoid any misunderstandings that may lead to students missing out on a place in their usual class. Many classes are full and have waiting lists. Accounts will be emailed to current customers two weeks before the start of classes. If you wish to withdraw from the program, please advise us in writing before the invoice due date, otherwise fees will continue to accrue as the student’s place is held in the class. If a student withdraws their enrolment before the end of a term, the full term’s fees will remain payable.

Speak Up Studio may reschedule or cancel classes at any time. If changes are made that affect any participant’s ability to attend classes Speak Up Studio will refund any outstanding fees within 30 days.

Photo releaseChildren may be filmed or photographed while participating in classes or studio activities. This material may be published in Speak Up Studio printed publications and online (including on the Speak Up Studio website and Facebook page.) Images may also be supplied to third parties (eg. Local newspapers) for promotional purposes. If you do not wish your child to be filmed or photographed and this media used in publications, you must advise Speak Up Studio in writing.

Delivery PolicyAfter enrolling online, you will receive an email containing confirmation of your enrolment. We will normally confirm receipt of your enrolment within a few minutes of ordering. Services will be provided as per the class description. Speak Up Studio reserves the right to reschedule or cancel classes at any time. If changes are made that affect any participant’s ability to attend classes Speak Up Studio will refund any outstanding fees within 30 days.


Refund & Returns PolicySpeak Up Studio cannot refund lesson fees unless we cancel the course or make scheduling changes that affect your ability to attend. In this case, Speak Up Studio will refund any outstanding fees within 30 days. Consideration may be given in exceptional circumstances and we may offer a credit note for the value of the program to be used within 12 months.

Late Collection Fees

Our teachers will not leave children unattended, and are paid by the hour. If parents are late to pick up their children after drama class, a late fee (per child) will apply.

10 – 15 minutes late: late fee is $1015 – 30 minutes late: late fee is $2531 – 60 minutes late: late fee is $40Over 1 hour late: Student will be removed from the program with no refund.


Code of Conduct All parties are expected to abide the set of codes of conduct. Breaches of the code of conduct by any party will be addressed promptly.

When a student is misbehaving in class, in the first instance the matter will be discussed with the student, and if the matter is not resolved, Speak Up Studio will talk with the student’s parents/guardians/carers. Breaches of the code of conduct could result in:• changes to future lesson arrangements, including the

development of a plan to assist the student in participating in lessons and workshops in a safe and supportive way;

• termination of further tuition; and/or• notification to external authorities if the breach is reasonably

considered to be critical or criminal in nature.

Teacher’s code1. ensure that equal opportunities for participation in programs

are made available to all students, irrespective of ability;2. ensure that the program is appropriate to the maturity level of

students;3. ensure that adequate supervision is provided for students at

all times;4. maintain a positive attitude and appropriate behaviour, setting

an example for students;5. encourage parents to take an active interest in the vocal,

creative, confidence and communication skills of their child/children;

6. encourage parents to talk with each other and with their child/children;

7. insist on appropriate behaviour at all times;8. make reasonable demands of students’ time, energy and

enthusiasm, remembering that they have other demands on their interests and time;

9. never force a student to perform, students are only to perform/share if they want to;

10. be generous with praise when it is deserved;11. take opportunities to positively affirm courtesy and respect

amongst students;12. do not tolerate foul language, bullying or fighting;13. do not tolerate touching between students, unless requested

or required by teachers as part of a program;


Student’s code1. participate for your enjoyment, not just to please your parents;2. demonstrate a willingness to learn and participate in Speak

Up Studio programs;3. observe the rules of Speak Up Studio, and demonstrate a

willingness to learn and receive instructions;4. control your temper;5. treat all students as you would like to be treated;6. report inappropriate behaviour, unsafe situations and harm;7. cooperate with your teacher and fellow students.

Parent’s code1. don’t force your child to participate in Speak Up Studio

programs;2. feel welcome to stay and observe classes;3. raise any issues or concerns with Speak Up Studio staff;4. drop off and pick up students in a timely fashion, leaving

student/s in the care of Speak Up Studio staff only for the time allocated;

5. receive feedback regarding the student/s progress;6. provide the necessary resources/materials relevant to Speak

Up Studio’s programs, as requested;7. alert Speak Up Studio of any concerns as soon as they arise;8. give constructive feedback on Speak Up Studio policies and

procedures;9. work with Speak Up Studio to ensure that your investment

yields positive results;10. encourage your child to follow Speak Up Studio’s rules;11. teach your child that honest effort is important;12. encourage your child to work towards skill improvement;13. attend parent watching week and other performance

opportunities, when you can;14. never ridicule your child for making a mistake;15. be aware that personal information will be treated

confidentially and privacy will be respected;16. remember that children learn by example: applaud good

behaviour, attitudes and demonstrations of courtesy and respect; and

17. condemn the use of aggression and violence in all forms.

Speak Up Studio has the right to:1. cease its business activities with students who are

consistently non-compliant or obstructive, in which case the parents/guardians will be contacted immediately;

2. raise any concerns that its staff have about a student with his/her parents/guardians;


3. expect that parents/guardians and students will make concerns known as soon as they arise, so that a resolution can occur as soon as possible;

4. allow only a parent, guardian or another person nominated by parents/guardians to pick up a student from lessons; and

5. report any disclosures or suspicions of harm, as detailed in the risk management plan.

Students have the right to:1. feel safe;2. be listened to;3. be involved in decisions that affect them;4. have their cultural values respected;5. have their best interests considered;6. be respected;7. be understood;8. be free from harassment, bullying or abuse of any kind; and9. ask questions if they don’t understand something.

Parents and caregivers have the right to:1. receive regular feedback on students’ progress;2. ask questions or raise concerns about Speak Up Studio’s

programs or a student’s progress;3. make complaints as per Speak Up Studio’s procedures; and4. stay and observe Speak Up Studio’s lessons and workshops.


Guidelines for Parents

Parents often turn to extra curricular activities to build their child’s character, skills and promote fun. Parents play a key role in creating a safe environment for children participating in extra curricular activities.

The following actions will help parents contribute to providing a safe environment:• get involved and get to know your child’s teacher. Maintain

open and frank communication. If things occur that concern you, talk to the teacher or the Director;

• let us know if you hear language or attitudes that contribute to a negative or an unsafe environment;

• do not put teachers on pedestals: tell your child that it is okay to say ‘no’ to a teacher if he/she is doing something that makes your child feel uncomfortable;

• make an effort to attend assembly presentations and performances, and parent watching week when you can;

• never ridicule your child for making a mistake; and • encourage your child to practice, have a positive attitude and

to explore his/her creativity.

Drop off and pick up of students

Children may be dropped off before an activity and picked up afterwards by their parents or guardians. In other instances, children may make their own way to and from an activity. On their way to and from activities, children may be exposed to potential risk. Procedures should be put in place to minimise this risk.

It is not Speak Up Studio’s responsibility to transport students home if parents are delayed.

Speak Up Studio will, where reasonably possible:• reach agreement with parents about procedures for drop off

and pick up arrangements, including whether a child will make his/her own way home from an activity, or will be dropped off and picked up. This will involve Speak Up Studio informing parents/guardians of the time that lessons start and finish. It is not Speak Up Studio’s responsibility to transport students home if parents are delayed;


• if a parent/guardian is late for picking up a student, the teacher will try to contact the parent/guardian as soon as possible. Wait with the child, in the presence of any other persons (office staff/after school care staff/other parents or guardians) who are at the host school; and

• maintain a register of the emergency contact details for the parents/guardians of each student, which teachers will have access to during lessons/workshops, and ensure that each teacher has access to a mobile phone.

The use of images of children

There have been concerns about the risks posed directly and indirectly to children and young people through the use of photographs on websites and in other mediums. Evidence in Australia indicates that information posted on an internet site or published on social media platforms can be used to target children, locate them and then to condition or groom them. Additionally images can be used or adapted for inappropriate use. The end result is that despite the best intentions on the part of the publisher, children can end up being victims of abuse.

Acquiring images• ensure that parents are aware of the way in which the images

may be used;• do not allow unsupervised persons access to students;• provide parents with the contact details of whom to contact if

parents have concerns or complaints in respect of inappropriate photographic behaviour or content.

Displaying images• ensure that parents are aware of the way in which images may

be used;• avoid naming students and host schools in images. If this is not

possible, avoid using a student’s full name and the full name of the school;

• do not display personal information such as address, email address, telephone numbers etc;

• do not display information about hobbies, likes/dislikes, school etc as these facts can be used by predators as groom tools;

• only use appropriate images of students, suitably clothed, undertaking Speak Up Studio’s programs;

• reduce the ability for direct copying of pictures from websites and social media platforms by disabling the ‘right mouse click’ function; and


• provide parents with the contact details of whom to contact, should concerns or complaints about image use arise.

Strategies for communication and support

A copy of Speak Up Studio’s current risk management plan will be displayed at our place of business. A copy of this risk management plan will be provided to each parent/guardian/carer and host school.

Parents/guardians/carers and host schools will be notified of any changes to Speak Up Studio’s risk management plan, and a new copy of the risk management plan will be provided after its annual review.

Parents/guardians/carers and host schools will be kept informed of changes to risk management/blue card legislation, through written or verbal communication.

If a student appears to be having difficulties, Speak Up Studio will discuss its concerns with the student’s parents/guardians/carers with an aim to support the student to participate in its programs and workshops in a safe and supportive manner.

Complaints We are committed to conducting our programs and workshops in an open and accountable way. Speak Up Studio actively encourages parents, carers, guardians and students to discuss any concerns they have with us, with a view to resolving any problems in a professional and sensitive manner.

In the event open discussions do not effectively resolve the parents’, carers’, guardians’ or students’ concerns, Speak Up Studio will advise the complainant of where they can find more information about our practices, policies and procedures. For example:• in relation to Blue Card matters, or concerns relating to

Speak Up Studio’s risk management policy, further information can be provided by the Commission for Children and Young People and Child Guardian, who can be contacted by calling 1800 113 611;

• in relation to alleged criminal behaviour, the Queensland Police Service should be contacted; and

• in relation to any concerns regarding Speak Up Studio practices, more information can be provided by the Speech and Drama Teachers’ Association of Queensland.


Policy Objectives and RationaleThe purpose of this policy is to provide guidelines to parents about the expectations and practises within our studio, and to effectively manage complaints received from parents, guardians, carers and students.

ResponsibilityIt is the responsibility of the person or persons carrying out the task to ensure that the correct procedures are employed. The overall responsibility rests with the management of Speak Up Studio.

Impacted PartiesThis policy applies to the following individuals:• employees and volunteers;• support personnel;• students; and• parents, guardians and staff of host schools, to the full extent

that it is possible


Speak Up Studio’s Commitment to Child Safety

We are committed to providing a child and youth safe environment within which our students can enjoy participating in speech and drama classes. We are committed to fostering a supportive and positive environment to develop students’ skills and learning.

We acknowledge that our staff provide a valuable contribution to the positive experiences of our young students. We aim to ensure this continues and to protect the safety and welfare of our students. Several measures will be used to achieve this:• prohibiting the use of substances which may compromise the

appropriate supervision of children;• informing parents/guardians of our intention to use photographs and

videos of children;• ensuring that, other than in classes, all communication is with parents/

guardians;• prohibiting any form of abuse against children, including bullying and

harassment;• ensuring that no visitors or outsiders have contact with students, other

than approved lesson observers and host school staff members;• ensuring that parents/guardians are advised when teachers are not

able to provide lessons;• carefully selecting and screening people whose role requires regular

contact with children (screening procedures as per state legislation are outlined in the appendices to this document);

• ensuring that our code of conduct is promoted, enforced and reviewed; and

• providing education and/or information to those involved in our programs on child abuse and child protection.

We require that any child who is abused, or anyone who reasonably suspects that a child has been or is being abused by someone, to report it immediately to the Director of Speak Up Studio, who will refer the matter to the police or relevant government agency.

All allegations of child abuse will be dealt with promptly, seriously, sensitively and confidentially. A person will not be victimised for reporting an allegation of child abuse and the privacy of all persons concerned will be respected.


Policy Objectives and RationaleThe purpose of these procedures is to provide guidelines to effectively manage a child safe environment for our students. This policy is to be reviewed annually, as well as after any significant incident.ResponsibilityIt is the responsibility of the person or persons carrying out the task to ensure that the correct procedures are employed. The overall responsibility rests with the management of Speak Up Studio.

Impacted Parties• This policy applies to the following individuals:• employees and volunteers;• support personnel;• students; and• parents, guardians and staff of host schools, to the full extent that it is

possible.

Receiving and reporting disclosures of harm

An allegation of child abuse is a very serious matter and must be handled with a high degree of sensitivity. The initial response to a complaint that a child has been allegedly abused should be immediate if the incident/s are serious or criminal in nature.

In such circumstances, the following is a basic outline of the key processes to follow. More information can be obtained from the Queensland Government Commission for Children and Young People and Child Guardian.

Suspicion of harmYou have reasonable grounds to suspect harm if:• a child or young person tells you they have been harmed;• someone else, for example, another child, parent or host school

staff member, tells you that harm has occurred or is likely to occur;• a child or young person tells you they know someone who has been

harmed (it is possible they are referring to themself);• you are concerned at significant changes in the behaviour of a child

or young person, or the presence of new unexplained and/or suspicious injuries; or

• you see the harm occurring.

Disclosures may sound like:• “I think I saw…”;• “Someone told me that…”;• “I don’t want to go home with (carer)…”• “Just think you should know…”; or• “I’m not sure what I want to do, but…”.


Any disclosure of harm is important and must be acted upon, regardless of whether:• the harm to the child or young person has been caused by a person

within or outside Speak Up Studio; or• the child or young person disclosing the harm to you is from within

or outside Speak Up Studio.• Irrespective of the source of harm, i.e. whether from within Speak

Up Studio or outside Speak Up Studio, a disclosure may be made to someone from Speak Up Studio.


What to do when a disclosure is made

Receiving a disclosureThere is not one set of rules to follow when a child or young person tells you that harm has occurred to them, or another person discloses an incident of harm to a child or young person. However the following actions may be of assistance:1. Don’t panic – you may be the first person to whom the

disclosure is made. Your reaction may determine whether the person making the disclosure trusts you with the information;

2. Find a private place to talk – privacy may help the person making the disclosure feel more comfortable or less concerned about telling you what they have to say;

3. Listen – when presented with a disclosure of harm, don’t say “I won’t tell”, and don’t promise to keep secrets. You should reassure the person they have done the right thing in telling you, and explain that you need to tell someone else who can help them and finally reassure that you will only tell someone who will make them safe;

4. Believe the person – it is not up to you to judge whether a child, young person or anyone else is telling the truth – always act on the basis that what you have been told is the truth;

5. Don’t ask leading questions – these are questions that tend to suggest an answer;

6. Take basic details (if possible) – such as:a. child’s name, age and address;b. dates;c. times;d. location;e. who was present

7. Include a detailed description of:a. exactly what was said, using, “I said”, and “They said”

statements;b. the questions you asked;c. any comments you made; and d. your actions following the disclosure.

If you are taking notes as the disclosure is occurring, explain why you are doing this and why it is important, i.e. to ensure an accurate record for any subsequent investigation. If the disclosure is being made by a child or young person, remember to explain this to them in a way that is appropriate for their age and understanding. Any reports or documents relating to the harm must be kept confidential and secure.


Reporting a disclosureSuspicions of harm which may involve a serious offence against a child or young person must be always taken seriously.

Speak Up Studio’s first responsibility is to report it either to the Queensland Police Service of the Department of Child Safety. This should be done in conjunction with the person to whom the disclosure was made, as they will have the knowledge of what was said.

Under no circumstances should any staff member:1. conduct their own investigation to substantiate claims;2. hold its own internal hearing (known as a ‘kangaroo court’);3. attempt to mediate a settlement of the matter instead of

notifying relevant authorities. 4.Investigations conducted by clubs or members could lead to:1. the compromising of future legal proceedings;2. the destruction of evidence by an accused person;3. intimidation of the person disclosing the information; or 4. intimidation of the child or young person being harmed (if the

disclosure was made by somebody else).

The Queensland PoliceThe Queensland Police Service will investigate disclosures of suspected or substantiated harm to child or young people. This will be done by officers of the Juvenile Aid Bureau or Child Abuse Unit. If a disclosure is made you, contact your Juvenile Aid Bureau or local police station and tell them you suspect, or have been told of, someone who has been harmed.

When contacting the police, they will want to know:1. the details of any disclosure of harm;2. the name, age and address of the child or young person harmed; 3. where the child or young person is at that point in time;4. any identifying information regarding the alleged perpetrator of

the harm; and 5. your details.

The Department of Child SafetyWhere the disclosure indicates that a family member may have caused harm, or where parents are not acting to protect their child from harm, the incident must be reported to the Department of Child Safety through your local service center. Disclosures of harm relate to shared family care or residential services for child and young people must also be reported to the Department of Child Safety.


However, where the disclosure of harm indicates a criminal offence may have taken place, such as sexual assault of a child or young person, the matter should be reported to the Queensland Police Service.

Not sure who to contact?If you are unsure whether the harm disclosed has been caused by a family member or someone outside the family, contact the Queensland Police Service. If it is a matter for the Department of Child Safety, the Queensland Police Service will refer the matter to them.

Policy Objectives and RationaleThe purpose of this policy is to provide guidelines to effectively manage disclosures of harm.


Impacted PartiesThis policy applies to the following individuals:• employees.


Blue Card Requirements

We are committed to ensuring that Speak Up Studio complies with all Blue Card requirements and legislation by:• ensuring that all Blue Cards remain valid;• ensuring that Blue Card renewal forms are submitted to the

Commission for Children and Young People and Child Guardian at least 30 days prior to the expiry of each Blue Card;

• complying with reporting requirements by advising the commission if:

• Speak Up Studio’s police or disciplinary information changes. Speak Up Studio will not continue to conduct a regulated, child related business until a Change in police information form is submitted to the Commission;

• Speak Up Studio’s address changes;• Speak Up Studio is no longer operating as a regulated, child related

business;• complying with all Blue Card screening requirements as outlined on

the Commission for Children and Young People and Child Guardian’s website;

• reviewing Speak Up Studio’s risk management plan annually, as well as after any significant incident to:

• check it remains up to date with legislative changes, making any changes necessary;

• ensure it continues to be effective in addressing the risks to students participating in Speak Up Studio programs and workshops;

• any review of Speak Up Studio’s risk management plan will consider:

• whether the policies and procedures were followed;• whether any incidents relating to children and young people’s risk

management issues occurred;• the actual process used to manage any incidents;• the effectiveness of Speak Up Studio’s policies and procedures in

preventing or minimising harm to students; and• the content and frequency of training in relation to Speak Up

Studio’s risk management plan.

Policy Objectives and RationaleThe purpose of this policy is to provide guidelines to effectively manage Blue Card requirements, in compliance with Blue Card legislation.


http://www.bluecard.qld.gov.au


Impacted PartiesThis policy applies to the following individuals:• employees and volunteers;• support personnel;• students; and• parents, guardians and staff of host schools, to the full extent that it is

possible.


Child Disclosure Incident Report

Name of person submitting report:

Phone Number:

Date of writing report:

Time of writing report:

Name of host school:

Name of student:

Name of person/s involved in incident:

Date incident occurred:

Location of incident:

Nature of incident

Summary of events prior to incident:

Immediate action taken:

Name of person to whom report was submitted:

Signature


Risk Management Strategy

Calculating the level of risk:1. evaluate the likelihood of a risk occurring according to the

ratings listed in Table 1;2. evaluate the consequences, if the incident occurred, according

to the ratings in Table 2; and3. calculate the level of risk by finding the intersection between the

likelihood and consequences as per Table 3.

Table 1: Measures of likelihood

Table 2: Measures of consequences or impact

Descriptor Definition

Almost certain Is expected to occur in most circumstances

Once a month

Likely Will probably occur at some time

Once a quarter

Possible Should occur at some time Once a year

Unlikely Could occur at some time Once every five years

Rare May occur in exceptional circumstances

Once in over five years

Descriptor Definition

Extreme High financial loss, death, adverse public reaction/media attention, legal action

Major Major financial loss, extensive injuries, loss of assets, revenue not collected

Moderate High financial loss, medical treatment required, revenue collection delayed, no/insufficient systems/controls in place to mitigate risk, insufficient staff skills/knowledge

Minor Medium financial loss, first aid treatment, some compensating controls in place, policies/procedures not complied with

Insignificant Low financial loss, no injuries


Table 3: Risk rating

Risk rating description and action:

Likelihood Consequence

Insignificant Minor Moderate Major Extreme

Almost certain

Medium Medium High High High

Likely (4) Low Medium High High High

Possible (3) Low Low Medium High High

Unlikely (2) Low Low Low Medium Medium

Rare (1) Low Low Low Low Medium

Level Description Action

High Immediate action required and detailed research and management planning required at Director level

Reject, manage, reduce, transfer

Medium

Director attention needed and management responsibility specified

Manage, reduce, transfer, accept

Low Manage by routine procedures, unlikely to need specific application of resources

Manage, accept


Risk AssessmentActivity Likelihood

Consequences

Level of risk Teacher action Forward planning

Parent/guardian/carer does not arrive to pick up student

Possible Major High

Student is kept in the teacher’s sight at all times, and usually asked to draw a picture or complete homework from current week’s lesson.

Procedure for drop off/pick up is provided to parents when students are enrolled.Student is to be kept in teacher’s sight at all times until parent arrives

Student says he/she does not want to go home with parent/guardian/carer

Unlikely Major Medium

Ask the student for the reason he/she does not want to go home. If the answer suggests harm to the student from someone at home, report to the relevant authorities, following the procedure in the risk management plan. If not, discuss the matter with the parent.

Develop a comprehensive risk management plan and ensure staff are trained to follow appropriate procedures.

Student discloses that he/she is being physically harmed or abused

Possible Major Extreme Follow the procedure outlined in the risk management plan

Develop a comprehensive risk management plan and ensure staff are trained to follow appropriate procedures.

Parents/guardians/carers/prospective staff may visit to observe lessons/workshops

Likely Minor Medium

Observers are asked to sit to one side, away from and separate to, the students. Prospective employees are monitored by the teacher.

Ensure that processes are in place to prevent visitors and observers from being alone with any student.


The cleaner attends classrooms when students are in attendance.

Possible Moderate Medium

Teachers monitor the cleaner, and discuss the matter with the host school. The cleaner is employed by the host school, not Speak Up Studio.

Ensure that processes are in place to prevent cleaners from being alone with any student

Child show signs ofdepression, sadnessand/or talks/showssigns of self-harm

Possible Major Extreme Provide support to the child

Depending on the information given, discuss concerns with parent/ guardian

Injury to child in the course of an ordinary class

Possible Moderate/Major Medium

Teachers have a stocked first aid kit with them at all times. In the event of a medical emergency, theteacher will endeavour tocontact parents immediately.If parents are un-contactable,the teachers reserve the rightto call for ambulance service.

Ensure that care is taken to be safe during class.

Provide teachers with first aide kits and training.


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