BY THE WAY
BYTE DAY to DAY
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Term Dates- page 3
Performance Dates-page 4
Covid Policy-page 5
What's expected- page 6
What to wear- page 7
What to Bring - page 8
Fees -page 9
Parental Attendance- page 11
Public Holidays/ student free days- page 11
Shows and Performances- page 10/11
Parents and Care Givers- page 12
Liability-page 13
Collection of Students -page 14
Costume Attention- page 15
CODE OF CONDUCT
Child and Youth Risk Management Policy - pages 16-30
Code of Conduct 13 years under- page 17
Code of Conduct 13 years over -page 18
Code of Conduct Staff- pages 19-21
Management of Breaches- pages 22
Class Size Supervision- page 23
Photography Policy- page 23
Use Phones and Social Media- page 24
Personal Contact in Plays Management- page 24
Collection of Students - page 25
Risk Management - page 26
Complaints Procedure- page 27
Disclosure of Harm- page 28
Compliance with Blue Card- page 29
2024
TERM 4 30th SEPTEMBER- 28th NOVEMBER
The term 4 of BYTES is a major productions term with extra rehearsals and performances. Term 3 has extra filming schedules for some classes . These are included in the TERM FEE ARRANGEMENT. Sometimes this will be in lieu of a child’s regular lesson time for production purposes. Additional rehearsals will sometimes replace the scheduled lesson in the lead up to a major production.
It is therefore important to check NEWS Information pages for Updates in the Lead Up to a SHOW.
Please be aware that although the official finish of the term 4 is 28h November, classes that have additional extra rehearsals during the last term will finish before the 28th at the conclusion of their season. This allows the flexible scheduling of additional rehearsals for the classes who perform later in the production season. Classes that do not have additional rehearsals finish at the specified date. The final productions will be 15th November- 8thDecember
TERM 4 September 30- November 28
STUDIO B ACTING
RED CARPET NIGHT- 12th OCTOBER
STUDIO B ACTING GALA- 4 /12
JUNIOR/SENIOR/ELEGERIE. STUDIO X MUSICALIDAD
MADAGASCAR REHEARSAL- 2ndNOVEMBER
MADAGASGAR DRESS REHEARSAL - 10th NOVEMBER
MADAGASGAR SHOWS- NOVEMBER 15-17
PLAY PERFORMANCES
SPEECH/DRAMA PERFORMANCE- 11 AND 1.30PM 24/11
DARWIN/NO GOOD DEED ( STUDIO X &Stage and scree)
23rd NOVEMBER at 5.00pm and 7.30pm
24TH NOVEMBER AT 5 and 7
STUDIO B MUSICAL
LEGALLY BLONDE REHEARSAL- 3rd NOVEMBER
LEGALLY BLONDE DRESS REHEARSAL- 23rd NOV
LEGALLY BLONDE DRESS REHEARSAL- 25th NOV
LEGALLY BLONDE SHOWS-
29 th NOVEMBER, 30th NOVEMBER, 6th and 7th DECEMBER
IPA
PERFORMANCE- THURSDAY 28TH NOVEMBER
Student Etiquette What's Expected
Arrive at least five minutes prior to your scheduled class.
Present to class in a tidy and well-groomed manner
Smoking or Vaping is not permitted at BYTES. If you are found doing so, you will immediately lose your place in your class and your role in a production.
Class Rehearsal Wear and jazz shoes( joggers for younger students) must be worn for classes, where specified.
School uniform is not appropriate attire for our classes
Bring a clearly named bottle of water to every class.
Attend class regularly unless ill or injured, or in the event of a family emergency.
When cast in a play or musical it is your responsibility to learn your lines and songs at least 3 weeks before a performance
Honour prior commitments made to BYTES by attending classes, rehearsals and performances above other social events.
Serve as a role model to younger students at all times, including appropriate language and behaviour.
Mobile phones should be switched off or on silent mode and are not to be used during class.
Put rubbish in the bins provided and clean up after yourself.
Show respect and care for equipment and facilities.
When you are given a costume, take care of it and return it at the conclusion of your show.
Support other people by attending shows or being a polite audience member
Do not wear or endorse alternative theatre or dance school promotional material. Ask for help if you need it – we are here for you.
What to WEAR
We would like to encourage all BYTES students to wear appropriate rehearsal wear to class. Regardless of whether your child does IPA, Acting, Elegerie or Musical Theatre, they are learning, rehearsing and ultimately performing in a working THEATRE SPACE.
Clothes that enable movement, are comfortable and cool are a must, as is appropriate footwear. Each Class has recommended class wear and this is published on our Class Wear Page on our Gated Community. You can order class wear, BYTES t shirts and shoes through the gated site- CLASS WEAR PAGE
You fill in the form with your child’s size to order. Pay directly into BYTE ACCOUNT- BSB 484799 ACC:044588827
Cite your child’s name If we have the stock, your child will get their items at their next class. If we have to order it will take 5-8 days.
STUDENTS ARE EXPECTED TO CHANGE into BYTES CLASS WEAR or THEATRE BLACKS for their lesson.
THEATRE BLACKS - This means all black clothing- T shirt ( can be BYTES T shirt or plain black shirt), or leotard and leggings, long jazz or regular pants and black shoes ( either joggers or jazz shoes) ( IPA and Junior students may wear the BYTES suggested class wear or their own choice)
BYTES CLASS WEAR or similar alternative in colour/style. All students are to wear either black joggers or black jazz shoes.
IPA, Junior or Open Musical, Speech and Drama or Stage and Screen can choose to wear our T SHIRTS with either black or purple shorts/ bike pants.
Studio B
Studio X E l e g e r i e
SPECIALIST CLASS MEMBERS are expected to wear the uniform as supplied to them, with additional optional items
What to bring to first class
It's a really great idea to have a BYTES BAG
That way you always have it ready to go
Acting Classes
Small Journal/ Notebook for writing
Pencil case with Pencils, Eraser and Highlighter
Water Bottle
Folder if given a script
Musical Theatre Classes
Water Bottle
Folder
Pencilcase with Pencils, Eraser and Highlighter
Towel
Bag with dance shoes
IPA
Drink Bottle
Small Towel
Joke of the Week!
If your child has a medical plan please bring this to your first class. Should your child require medication, an asthma puffer or an anaphylactic pen in the event of a health episode, please ensure that these are given to the class teacher before the lesson.
Fees
All families pay a $50 Annual Registration Fee
This Fee will open your Membership with BYTES . It will allow you to Book BYTES Classes. You have access to all News pertaining to BYTES Classes and Shows, Special Deals and Updates.
On the Member's Gated BYTES Page, you book your classes for EACH TERM. If you want to attend the following term you MUST RE BOOK before the commencement of the new term
Once you pay your term fees via the booking platform, your classes are scheduled and you receive a confirmation and notification of days and times
YOU CAN ALSO INDICATE IF YOU WISH TO BE DIRECT DEBITED EACH TERM IN THE CLASS OF YOUR CHOICE.
(THIS IS MOST CONVENIENT FOR SPECIALIST MEMBERS)
The fees will be debited from your account on the first Monday of the school term if you elect this option
If you wish to pay part payments, you pre arrange with BYTES by submitting the Part Payment form on the Gated Community Site. Your Part Payments are to be paid in to the BYTE Account BSB: 484799 Account: 044588827. You must cite your child's name as a reference
Part Payment of Term Fees must be paid by the second last week of Term.
In the event of a special instance that necessitates your child's extended absence from BYTES, a pro rata credit will be considered Your term fee is for your place in the program and not per class. No fees will be refunded for lessons that have not been attended as extra rehearsals and other opportunities contribute to the total program. BYTES must be notified by e-mail before the end of term if a pupil wishes to discontinue a class or classes, or leave the studio at the end of term. Students, whose fees are outstanding without prior arrangement with BYTES, may not be permitted to attend classes or studio activities until outstanding fees have been paid BYTES thanks families for their prompt payment of fees and for their support through COVID. It not only allows our small business to continue to offer our fine service to young people, but enables us to assist children who need our support.
Performances 2024
During the performance season, plays and musicals will be scheduled for your child's class. If there are Events such as school formal dates and school musicals, please advise Robyn ASAP so that the scheduling of our BYTES performances can take this into account. Our season is dictated by the venue availability and although we will try our best to accommodate for other commitments, the scheduling of our shows once on try booking, will be final. Performances are advertised on the PERFORMANCE PAGE of the website and links to bookings are through it and the GATED BYTES page. Information The BYTES GATED COMMUNITY , THE BYTES FACEBOOK PAGE BYTES FACEBOOK
WEBSITE are the best ways to keep up to date with BYTES News and Information.
https://www.instagram.com/bytesyouththeatre/ https://www.facebook.com/bytestheatre Website: www.bytesyouththeatre.com
Parental Attendance
Although we appreciate that parents are curious about class work and sometimes like to be there, especially for the little ones, in accordance with the latest child safety legislation, we do not allow parents to come and go into our work space There are lovely grounds around the hall and many parents take advantage of these, or sit on the verandah whilst waiting We do appreciate parental assistance at the time of concerts and productions.
Public Holidays
BYTE classes continue on all public holidays and student free days if they fall during the State School terms.
If A public holiday is scheduled before the school term starts ( ie:Easter Monday) there will be no classes on that day.
Shows and Performances
BYTE is a fully operational YOUTH THEATRE taking pride in giving all of our students the opportunity to perform in quality productions throughout the year.
The audience pays for tickets as our plays, musicals and concerts all attract a range of costs which are not met by tuition. Every play, musical and concert attracts rights and royalties from either APRA or the owners of the shows and BYTE has to pay anything up to 16% of the door to those owners. The Buderim Memorial Hall and other venues also attract a significant hire cost, lighting and sound hire is another cost of any show. BYTE also heavily subsidizes any costuming utilized.
For this reason, a good audience to our performances is not only desirable for the young ones (to perform in front of a decent crowd) but financially imperative for us to continue as a theatre company, that offers real performance opportunities to young people. We extend a huge thank you to our parents and patrons who recognise this and have been so supportive in the past. To new parents, we encourage you to get behind our shows by booking and coming along to clap and cheer. Its giving the performers an opportunity to be on stage with great plays and musicals which makes BYTE different from other Drama classes.
Parent/ Care Givers
Demonstrate respect for teachers, students, staff and other parents at all times.
Be punctual with collecting your children
Take responsibility to read NEWS updates on the Member's Area and keep up-to-date with current activities and important information.
Ensure siblings are supervised at all times, equipment is treated with care and the waiting areas are left tidy.
Refrain from entering the rehearsal space unless invited by a teacher. This includes areas not in use and extends to siblings.
Understand and support BYTES by encouraging children to show commitment and positivity while working to the best of their own ability.
Refrain from taking photographs or video without permission.
Respect our approach to establishing and maintaining professional relationships with our students and parents by (1) ensuring all contact is made via the Director in person, by phone or email and (2) refraining from direct communication with staff via personal email, text, phone or social media unless on platforms managed directly by BYTES (e.g. a private Facebook group) or deemed necessary (e.g. rescheduling a private lesson).
Raise any concerns with a teacher or staff member by making an appointment.
Liability
BYTES Students are insured with DANSURANCE
AUSTRALIA
Disclaimer and Advertising Waiver:
“I hereby permit BYTE Buderim youth Theatre of Excellence to use photography (and other media forms) which may contain my image, for advertising purposes. I also acknowledge that at all times whilst attending BYTE both my property and my person shall be at my own risk and I shall not hold BYTE Buderim Youth Theatre of Excellence liable for any loss of life, personal injury suffered, loss or damage sustained to property or person, however such loss, damaged or injury may arise or be caused, including negligence on behalf of BYTE Buderim Youth Theatre of Excellence, it’s instructors, servants, or agents.”
Whilst attending BYTE classes both my property and my person shall be at my own risk and I shall not hold BYTE Buderim Youth Theatre of Excellence liable for any loss of life, personal injury suffered, loss or damage sustained to property or person however such loss damage or injury may arise or be caused, including negligence on behalf of BYTE, it’s instructors, servants or agents.
By completing our Registration form you will be accepting our terms and conditions and Policy and Procedures. We are unable to commence tuition without your acceptance of our Terms & Conditions
Collection of Students
Parents are to instruct their younger children to wait on the verandah of the Buderim Memorial Hall whilst awaiting collection after lessons. A staff member will wait with the Younger students.
Students are asked NOT to wait behind the hall in the car park. Wait outside the hall on Church St.
If their lift fails to arrive, students must return into the rehearsal space and advise a teacher who will ensure the child is cared for until the lift arrives.
Parents should ring or text 0414758701 if they are running late.
Parents should be particularly punctual for pick up. If the child is attending the final class at BYTES for the evening. BYTES staff will wait with the child for 15 minutes. If the parent has not arrived at that point, the parent is to be phoned and asked what arrangements they would like to make. ie taxi or alternative.
Costumes
Bytes has many beautiful costumes ( 3 shed fulls) and sometimes hires suiting and period costuming in for different shows.
Once you are given a costume for use in rehearsal and for the production, it is your responsibility until it is returned at the conclusion of the performance.
THIS MEANS YOU MUST CARE FOR YOUR COSTUMES!
Keep your costumes in a costume bag. Make sure your costumes are ironed for rehearsals and for performances. Wear deodorant and appropriate underwear . If you are given a wig, place it on the wig block provided and place a net over it to keep it in place. Do not comb or brush a wig. If you break the costume or tear it, you will be asked to replace the costume and, if it is a ballgown or a three piece suit, this could be costly. SO TAKE DUE CARE. On the last day/ evening of your performance you are to hand your costumes back and have your name checked off. To assist, costumes should be put back from inside out, sleeves should be freed and zippers and buttons done up . Bow ties are to be placed in the inside pocket of the jacket. All accessories are to be handed in with your costume. Wigs are to be placed inside out and off the wig blocks. This helps the laundry lady immensely.
Child and Youth Risk Management Policy
Statement of Commitment
BYTE- Buderim Youth Theatre of Excellence is committed to the safety and wellbeing of all children and young people, staff and members of the community as we provide instruction and direction in the performing arts and present theatrical performances.
In order to provide a safe and supportive service environment where learning and skill development is encouraged and facilitated, our business will be conducted in an environment that is safe, secure, supported, respectful and facilitated by professionals.
Code of Conduct
All BYTE activities are approached with professionalism and integrity. We are committed to providing a safe, welcoming and nurturing environment that seeks not only to instill a love of performing arts in our students, but to develop important life skills as well – respect, commitment, reliability and teamwork .
To ensure a happy and positive experience for all involved, it is important that students, parents and care givers, extended friends and family members and staff understand and comply with the below
Code of Conduct for Children 13 and under
As children and youth who are part of BYTE Buderim Youth Theatre we agree that:
We will respect other children, young people and adults;
We will cooperate and obey the rules outlined by BYTE Buderim Youth Theatre
We will respect other people’s property;
We will listen, openly receive instructions and try our best at all times;
We will control our temper;
We will have a say about what we are involved in;
We will speak up if we are worried or concerned about something;
We will not be a bully or accept any bullying that we see.
Students are required to go to the toilets in a buddy system or with a parent.
Code of Conduct Parents and Care
Givers and Students over 13 years
As a parent/carer of a student involved in the service provided by BYTE Buderim Youth Theatre of Excellence, or as a student over the age of 13 years, I agree that:
I will respect the rights, dignity and worth of every person, regardless of their abilities, gender, religion or cultural background; I will respect the decisions of BYTES teachers and will teach my children to do likewise;
I will encourage the effort and performance of all students at BYTES; I will represent BYTES in a positive and friendly manner at all times; I will support all efforts to ensure BYTES remains a safe and supportive environment for all BYTES students, teachers and parents.
I will raise any issues or concerns with BYTES in a positive and constructive manner;
I will not treat any student in an unfair, unjust or discriminatory manner; I will not smoke in the Buderim Memorial Hall, or any other place BYTES is conducting rehearsal or performance.
I will not drink alcohol whilst at the Buderim memorial Hall or other rehearsal space property except in within the parameters of an approved function where the service of alcohol to adults is approved; I will not use illicit substances whilst on Buderim Memorial hall or other rehearsal spaces property or whilst representing BYTES in any capacity.
I will not engage in inappropriate and/or sexual behaviour whilst on Buderim memorial hall property or whilst representing BYTES in any capacity. Nor will I engage in a manner which involves discrimination or bullying in any form.
I understand that I may be removed from BYTES premises, or activities , if I contravene the Code of Conduct.
BYTE Buderim youth theatre of excellence duty of care commences when students enter the class. Parents may choose to remain outside the premises during this period of time but parents are not permitted to stay in the rehearsal space during class time unless it is arranged for a specific purpose.
Code of Conduct for Staff/ Employees and Contractors.
Personal and professional behaviour Employees/Contractors are to perform any duties associated with their position in a conscientious, competent and honest manner, consistent with the values of the organisation.
Employees/Contractors are to treat all others with respect and courtesy, having regard for their dignity and rights.
Employees/Contractors act fairly and equitably, respecting diversity in the environment which they work in.
Employees/Contractors prevent and respond to unlawful discrimination against other employees, volunteers, clients and stakeholders.
Employees/Contractors do not engage in bullying, violence, harassment or any other forms of victimisation.
Employees/Contractors dress and act in public in a professional manner that does not reflect adversely on the organisation or other employees.
Employee’s/Contractor’s use of social media does not compromise the organisation’s reputation and does not include derogatory, shaming or other personal attacks towards or about employees, the governing body, volunteers, client or other stakeholders.
Staff and volunteers must not: develop any ‘special’ relationships with children that could be seen as favouritism (for example, the offering of gifts or special treatment for specific children); exhibit behaviours with children which may be construed as unnecessarily physical (for example inappropriate sitting on laps); put children at risk of abuse (for example, by locking doors); do things of a personal nature that a child can do for themselves, such as toiletting or changing clothes
Staff, Contractors or Volunteers MUST NOT:
ignore or disregard any suspected or disclosed child abuse.
engage in open discussions of a mature or adult nature in the presence of children (for example, personal social activities);
use inappropriate language in the presence of children; express personal views on cultures, race or sexuality in the presence of children discriminate against any child, including because of culture, race, ethnicity or disability
have contact with a child or their family outside of our organisation without BYTES knowledge and/or consent (for example, no babysitting). Accidental contact (such as seeing people in the street) is appropriate;
have any online contact with a child or their family (unless necessary, for example in a Facebook Group managed by BYTES);
Accountability
Employees/Contractors use equipment, facilities and funds for the primary purpose of undertaking organisational duties.
Employees/Contractors maintain confidentiality of all organisation and personal information obtained during employment and other formal engagement with the organisation, and utilise such information for the purposes of carrying out duties, and not for financial or other benefit, or to take advantage of another person or organisation.
Employees/Contractors maintain organisation and personal records in accordance with legislative and organisational policy requirements. Employees/Contractors ensure all decisions made in the course of their duties are transparent and align with organisational policy and procedures. Employees/Contractors understand and comply with organisation policies and procedures.
Employees/Contractors are responsible for seeking clarification where needed regarding any part of their employment, including details of this Code of Conduct.
Employees/Contractors take responsibility for reporting conduct by other employees, governing body members or volunteers which contravenes any law, organisational policy and procedures, or this Code of Conduct.
Conflicts of interest
Employees/Contractors declare and manage any potential, actual or apparent conflicts of interests.
Employees/Contractors do not accept gifts, benefits or favours that may influence or be reasonably seen to influence decision making.
Employees/Contractors prevent and respond to nepotism and patronage.
Employees/Contractors manage conflicts of interest in accordance with organisational conflict of interest policies and procedures.
Employees/Contractors do not promote any competitor of BYTES theatre to students or parents. This includes verbal endorsements or the wearing of another company ' s promotional wear.
Safe Environment
Employees/Contractors are to perform their duties in a safe and competent manner in accordance with organisational workplace health and safety policies and procedures, and relevant workplace health and safety legislation.
Employees/Contractors are to develop, implement and maintain under the Working with Children (Risk Management and Screening) Act 2000, a child and youth risk management strategy which identifies potential risks of harm to children and young people and then implements strategies to minimise these risks.
Employees/Contractors are to implement clear and consistent procedures to guide and support the stakeholders who work or volunteer with your organisation or who benefit from our services
Employees/Contractors assist BYTES to manage any particular concerns with respect to the safety and wellbeing of children and young people who are involved with the organisation, and promote the consistency of an our approach to risk management, both within the organisation and with respect to compliance with the requirements under the Act.
Employees/Contractors must take care to not put themselves or others at risk or reduce their ability to carry out their duties through unsafe practices, inappropriate behaviours or the misuse of alcohol or drugs.
Employees take action in preventing, identifying and responding to workplace health and safety risks.Demonstrate respect for teachers, parents, staff and other students at all times.
Management of Breaches
Definition of a breach: A breach is any action or inaction by a member of the organisation ( Teachers, Contractors, Parents, Volunteers, Patrons and students), who fails to comply with any part of our Child Safety strategy.
The Director is in charge of managing any breaches. Any breach is to be reported to the director, an incident report is to be filled out.
Disciplinary
actions
Inappropriate, disrespectful, abusive or aggressive behaviour by students, parents (including carers or legal guardians), extended friends and family, staff or volunteers will not be tolerated and may result in immediate cancellation of enrolment with no refund or further discussion or immediate termination of employment or contract.
Other breaches of the Code of Conduct will result in one written warning. Further breaches may result in immediate cancellation of enrolment with no refund or further discussion or immediate termination of employment or contract.
BYTES is a Child Safe environment committed to understanding and abiding by the Queensland Government Child Safe Standards. Information on these standards is available on the Department of Human Services website.
Outcomes may include: emphasising the relevant component of the child and youth risk management strategy, for example, the code of conduct providing closer supervision providing further education and training mediating between those involved in the incident (where appropriate) disciplinary procedures (if necessary) reviewing current policies and procedures, and developing new policies and procedures (if necessary).
Class Sizes and Supervision
BYTES aims to provide effective, controlled and safe teaching of students
Class sizes will vary with genre and age groups. Normally 1 teacher per 12/15 although sometimes there are more teachers and assistants involved..
Depending on the intensity and level of tuition required there may, in some classes, there are two or more teachers.
Photography Policy
Upon Enrolment there is a parental permission required for photography of children for publicity purposes. If Parents give this permission, images of the children may be used in the context of their show rehearsals, for publicity purposes or program.
Photographs will not be published on social media with the accompanying names of the children, unless it is in the context of a media release.
Once parental permission has been obtained, the children’s photographs may be used in a program of a production or as promotional material including social and print media. Children should be dressed appropriately for their age and only staged in a likewise appropriate manner.
Photographs taken for publicity purposes remain the property of BYTES Youth Theatre but may be offered back to the parents at the conclusion of a show season. They are not to be distributed to any other person unless it is relating to BYTES.
Use of Phones, iPads and Social Media
Usage in line with normal social values are accepted at BYTE Buderim Youth Theatre
Our rules include:
No use during classes
No disruptive or noisy use of devices at any time whilst at BYTE Buderim Youth Theatre activities
Facebook and Instagram: This this updated by senior members of our staff. Bullying, harassment, sexual harassment, and any other anti social behaviour using devices will, under no circumstances, be tolerated
The name of BYTES Youth theatre is not to be used by students, parents or staff in creating any unofficial social media account.
Our accounts are:
BYTE-Buderim Youth Theatre of Excellence @bytestheatre
The closed group BYTES current students and parents https://www.facebook.com/groups/786372514802280/ bytesyouththeatre on instagram
Personal Contact in the Context of a Play Performance
Older Master Class students may be involved in scripts that give direction of physical contact in the play /musical script. . Enrolment into the Master Class, by the parent or care giver, is parental permission that their charge may be involved in a play or musical that through copyright obligations might require such direction. If a student is cast in a role requiring physical contact, this is discussed with the student who is cast to ensure they are comfortable with their role and the play/musical directions.
The Director and teachers MUST be aware of the actor's age and this will guide the casting. The Director/ Choreographer must develop acting techniques to help with the safety and comfort levels of everyone involved in performing these situations for the stage.
These techniques include contact improvisational exercises and discussions and discussing the importance of recognizing the difference between the two worlds of the "play" and "reality".
Specific choreography of the scene ' s movement is crucial so that the actors feel safe in the situation and on going monitoring that the movement is under controlled circumstances.
Collection of Students
Parents are to instruct their younger children to wait on the verandah of the Buderim Memorial Hall whilst awaiting collection after lessons. A staff member will wait with the Younger students.
Students are asked NOT to wait behind the hall in the car park. Wait outside the hall on Church St.
If their lift fails to arrive, students must return into the rehearsal space and advise a teacher who will ensure the child is cared for until the lift arrives.
Parents should ring or text 0414758701 if they are running late.
Parents should be particularly punctual for pick up. If the child is attending the final class at BYTES for the evening. BYTES staff will wait with the child for 15 minutes. If the parent has not arrived at that point, the parent is to be phoned and asked what arrangements they would like to make. ie taxi or alternative.
Parental consent is required if students are to be transported by BYTES staff. Drivers must be licensed and vehicles must be registered/roadworthy.
Should any unusual behaviour by a parent be noticed by a teacher (intoxicated, under the influence of drugs, aggressive) the teacher must make every effort to involve other parents or teachers to ensure the safety of the child. The Director must be advised by e-mail if an event occurs. The Director will investigate and advise all concerned of any subsequent action required.
Should any unusual behaviour by a driver be noticed by a teacher (intoxicated, under the influence of drugs, aggressive) the teacher must make every effort to involve other parents or teachers to ensure the safety of the child. The Director must be advised by e-mail if an event occurs. The Director will investigate and advise all concerned of any subsequent action required.
Risk Management
BYTE Buderim Youth Theatre remains committed to acting in a manner that supports the interest and well-being of its students by:
Modelling acceptable behaviour within the context of our Performing Arts classes.
Ensuring all students are safe by monitoring their activities, providing adequate supervision, and facilitating an environment that meets all safety requirements; Taking anything a student says seriously and following up on their concerns. Listening to students and letting them know that BYTES teachers are available for them if they have any concerns.
Advising that “harm” includes any form of sexual harassment, bullying or discrimination including verbally, directly to the person, by social media or by phone.
Taking reasonable precautions that any private lessons (by their very nature, one on one tuition) are conducted professionally ensuring teachers are fully aware of the BYTES Code of Conduct and Risk Management Policy, and ensuring all teachers have a current Blue Card and Risk Management Plan for High Risk
Activities / Special Events
Risk Management for Special Events
BYTE Buderim Youth Theatre of Excellence manages many events and performances throughout the calendar year where students are required to be supervised by employees and volunteers. For these events a Risk Management Plan is worked out and put in practice.
Additional management actions BYTES establishes to address high risk activities associated with these events include:
For our events a technical stage manager is in charge of the event. The additional management could include Water or Sun Safety for performances held outside or using different rehearsal spaces. Employing technical professionals to operate Lighting and Sound, if required. Ensuring students receive specialist training and additional rehearsals on any equipment or set to alleviate the risks
Communication and Support
The BYTE Buderim Youth Theatre of Excellence Child and Youth Risk Management policy is sent to parents/care givers. BYTE Buderim youth Theatre of Excellence welcomes any parent comments in respect of our RMP.
Complaints Procedure
Should a situation arise in which parents or employees wish to lodge a formal complaint in respect of, for example:
Conditions of employment
Service provided by BYTE Buderim Youth Theatre of Excellence
For issues relating to Harm see below
All complaints must be made by e-mail addressed to the Director. The Director will acknowledge receipt of the complaint by e-mail
The Director will investigate the complaint and within 10 working days will reply to the complainant by e-mail, and arrange a meeting if required.
If a resolution does not result, the Director will record BYTES decision as final. The complainant will have the opportunity to refer this to third parties, as appropriate.
Procedures to Minimise Harm
BYTE Buderim Youth Theatre remains committed to acting in a manner that supports the interest and well-being of its students by:
Modelling acceptable behaviour within the context of our Performing Arts classes.
Ensuring all students are safe by monitoring their activities, providing adequate supervision, and facilitating an environment that meets all safety requirements;
Taking anything a student says seriously and following up on their concerns. Listening to students and letting them know that BYTES teachers are available for them if they have any concerns.
Advising that “harm” includes any form of sexual harassment, bullying or discrimination including verbally, directly to the person, by social media or by phone.
Taking reasonable precautions that any private lessons (by their very nature, one on one tuition) are conducted professionally ensuring teachers are fully aware of the BYTES Code of Conduct and Risk Management Policy, and ensuring all teachers have a current Blue Card or Teacher's Registration with Blue Card Exemption.
Disclosure of Harm
If there is a reasonable suspicion of harm that a child has suffered or is suffering, it is the duty of care of all staff to follow up these suspicions and potential risks to the children or young people in our care. This is the case if, the suspicion has been brought to our attention by another student, a parent, or disclosed.
We are to observe and record actions of the children who might be at risk and report the concerns to the authorities. If an individual believes a child is in immediate danger or a life threatening situation, they should immediately ring Queensland Police Service 000.
Reasonable Suspicion of Harm needs to be reported to Child Safety. It is madatory for ALL teachers to report a reasonable suspicion of harm. The number to ring is 1800177135 or 0732359999.
An official Report ( proforma available from the Director) needs to be filled out for any disclosures and this is to be given by the Director upon completion. The Director will then follow up with Child Services.
Compliance with Blue Card
BYTE Buderim youth Theatre of Excellence maintains a Blue Card register that captures all employee and volunteer blue card information.
All information in relation to Blue Card applications will be kept confidential. All teachers hold blue cards or Teacher Registrations with Blue Card exemptions
Privacy and Confidentiality
BYTE Buderim Youth theatre of Excellence is committed to reasonably ensuring the privacy of appropriate information.
All personnel information of students, parents and employees is held by BYTE Buderim Youth Theatre of Excellence on our office premises or at the locked office at the Buderim memorial Hall
Data held on computer is only accessible by computer password to theDirector, and nominated staff.
Data for students leaving BYTES is deleted on all current computer systems, but retained on historical file for tax purposes.
Only the Director, or nominated staff, are authorised to comment to the media regarding any issues regarding BYTES
Confidential information about a child will only be shared if necessary to the child’s teacher and the Director.
Parental consent is required to release children's names for program and publicity purposes.
Medical Information is held in the office and only given to relative teachers. Consent is given for Email subscription for promotional material
