Vicky is an experienced Specialist Safeguarding and Social Care Trainer. With over 15 years of experience, she has worked with various sectors, including education, social care, and emergency services. Vicky currently serves as a safeguarding consultant for the dance industry, offering training and support to improve safeguarding practices in over 400 dance schools across the UK. She is also a qualified dance teacher and school owner.
As dance teachers, we regularly find ourselves traveling to events, competitions, and performances. We may also need to transport children or arrange transportation for them. Transporting children alone can put teachers in a vulnerable position and increase the risk of harm to the children. Therefore, whenever we are responsible for transporting children or young people, we should have safeguarding and child protection procedures in place to ensure their safety. Below is a quick guide to help improve safety when traveling:
- Consider isolation and the safety risks it creates. Can you travel with a small group of children in the same car? This can prevent isolation and help keep both children and teachers safer.
- Alternate drop-offs. Alternate which child is dropped off last and which one is dropped off first, so the same child isn't always left alone in the car at the end of the journey. Alternatively, arrange for children to be collected and dropped off at the same location.
- Travel with more than one adult. Can another teacher travel with you? If not, consider a DBS-checked adult helper or licensed chaperone.
- Alternate drivers. If there are multiple drivers available, rotate them. This not only helps the driver but also improves safety. Plan your journey in advance.
- Employ the best people. Follow safer recruitment procedures, ensuring that the person driving is safe and suitable for this responsibility. Use references and DBS checks in line with best practices for safer recruitment.
- Support the driver. Ensure the driver has emergency contact details for you and your business. Make sure they always have a mobile phone to contact you if needed.
- Provide emergency information. Ensure the driver has the appropriate emergency contact details and medical information for the children they are transporting.
- Ensure proper insurance and safety measures. Verify that the driver is appropriately insured and driving safely. If a booster seat is needed, make sure it is used.
- Focus on psychological safety. In addition to physical safety, ensure that children and young people feel psychologically safe. Before transporting a child or group of children, talk to them about the plans. Include parents and carers in decision-making and ensure their consent. Make sure the children understand what will happen and are comfortable with the arrangements.
Shows, competitions, and events are a highlight for many dancers and a fun, exciting part of being in a dance school. Let’s always ensure we have safeguards in place so these events remain enjoyable!
