Children involved in entertainment such as TV, film, theatre, modelling, dance shows, pantos, amateur dramatics, music groups and paid sports, whether professional or amateur, may require a performance license and a licensed chaperone.
The law
This is to ensure that the activities do not jeopardise the child’s welfare and education. This is regulated under the Children and Young Person Act 1933/63 and the Children (Performance and Activities) (Wales) Regulations 2015.
The legislation governing children in entertainment covers children from birth to statutory school leaving age (the last Friday in June of the school year in which a child reaches 16 years of age).
Child performance licence
A child performance licence is required:
- for all children from birth up to the end of their compulsory education. This is defined as the last Friday in June in the academic year in which they turn 16
- when a charge is made in connection with the performance. This applies whether the performers are paid or not
- when the performance takes place at licensed premises or a registered club
- when the performance is recorded to be broadcast or exhibited (for example on TV, radio, film, internet)
Chaperone licence
Children involved in entertainment such as TV, film, paid modelling or sporting activities must be supervised by a council approved chaperone unless they are in the care of their parent, legal guardian or in some circumstances a teacher.
This is regulated under the Children and Young Person Act 1933/63 and the Children (Performance and Activities) (Wales) Regulations 2015.
Chaperone role
The chaperone's role is to act in the best interest of the child, including their health, wellbeing and education throughout the time of the performance or activity.
Chaperones must remain with the child at all times and have sight of the child when they are on stage, set or performing. The precise duties whilst the child is at the place of performance or activity will vary depending on the type of performance or activity.
The chaperone's main duties are to ensure that the child/children are properly supervised when not performing and have adequate meals, rest and recreation. Chaperones must also ensure that suitable changing facilities are arranged by the company or venues, with separate changing rooms for boys and girls over five.
A Chaperone can supervise up to 12 children. However, due to the demands of the performance, or the ages, gender or special needs of the children, Anglesey local authority may decide that a Chaperone may only be responsible for a smaller number of children to ensure they are safeguarded appropriately.
Apply to be a chaperone
To apply to become a chaperone you will need:
- complete application form
- one passport sized photograph will be required
- to attend interview
- satisfactory references from two referees will be required
- an enhanced Disclosure and Barring (DBS) certificate
- relevant chaperone safeguarding training
More information on child performance licence and being a chaperone
For information and chaperone application forms, contact the Education Inclusion Service on 01286 679 007 or you can email GweinyddolADYaCh@gwyneddllyw.cymru