Fees are due by the end of Week 2 unless you have an approved payment plan with us.

Photos and video may be captured, attained and used by Sweet Studios and authorised third parties for promotional purposes or other uses that will reflect our dance studio in a positive light. This includes but is not limited to social media, resources and advertising. To opt out, please check the box under 'waivers' in your DSP log in.

For full terms and conditions please visit our website - sweetstudios.co.nz/terms-and-conditions

Bullying and Harassment Policy
Last updated: December 2024

Our mission at Sweet Studios is to provide a safe, encouraging and fun environment for students to learn and enjoy the performing arts. We aim to build up the confidence of all students who attend our classes, competitions, shows and events. We are part of a close-knit community of students, teachers, parents, caregivers are other supporters. Our goal is to ensure this is a community where everybody feels safe, included and supported.

By enrolling with Sweet Studios and attending our classes and events, you agree to the terms of our Bullying and Harassment Policy.

Preventing Bullying and Harassment
What is Bullying? Bullying is repeated, unreasonable behaviour directed towards a person or a group of people that can have a significant impact on them. It can create a risk to their physical and mental health and safety. Bullying can undermine a person’s self-confidence or make them feel unsafe.

Examples of bullying in a performing arts studio environment may include name-calling and insults, isolating or excluding others, threats of inappropriate behaviour or physical violence.

What is Harassment? Harassment is intimidating, threatening or degrading behaviour directed towards a person or group that is likely to have a harmful effect. Harassment includes repeated behaviour but can also occur by a serious single incident. Harassment is unlawful and has no place in the Sweet Studios or wider performing arts community.

At Sweet Studios we expect our teachers, students, parents, caregivers and other supporters who attend our classes, shows, competitions and events:
- not to bully, harass, discriminate against or victimise any person;
- to discourage any form of harassment, bullying or discrimination that they may be aware of by making it clear that this behaviour is unacceptable; and
- to report all instances of bullying and harassment to a Sweet Studios staff member.

We take all allegations of bullying and harassment seriously.

Behaviour that does not reach the legal standard of bullying or harassment may still be inappropriate and hurtful and will be addressed.

Dealing with Bullying and Harassment
If you are aware of an instance of bullying or harassment at Sweet Studios, we encourage you to speak up by contacting a trusted staff member or our director, Hannah Rutten at hello@sweetstudios.co.nz.

You can make a formal or informal complaint about an instance of bullying or harassment, and we will work with you to discuss an appropriate way forward.

In some cases, we may encourage you or your child to raise your concern directly with the person who has behaved in a way that has caused concern, but only if you feel safe and agree that this could be helpful.

If a complaint is made, we will ensure that all parties who are involved have a chance to be heard respectfully.

We reserve the right to investigate complaints, issue formal or informal warnings, or remove students from classes, performances, competitions and/or events where necessary to address and prevent bullying and harassment.

Media and Publicity Policy
Last updated: December 2024

Sweet Studios classes, competitions and events are designed to be encouraging, confidence-building, fresh, modern and fun. We have tight-knit community of students, teachers, caregivers and other supporters who we love sharing our work with. Sometimes, this involves capturing and sharing photographs, videos and other digital media content. This content is used for training and educational purposes, to promote Sweet Studios and to celebrate success.

By enrolling with Sweet Studios and attending our classes and events, you agree to the terms of our Media and Publicity Policy.

When we might take photos, videos and other digital content:
• Sometimes we take photos and videos and create other digital content at our classes, competitions, shows and community events.
• When we capture or create digital content, we endeavour to ensure that all those in attendance are aware and are offered the right to decline to participate.
• We only capture photos, videos and other digital media content that relates to the activities we offer at Sweet Studios, being dance, drama and musical theatre training.
• The taking of photographs and videos is strictly prohibited in Sweet Studios changing rooms, bathrooms and other private spaces.

How we might share photos, videos and other digital content:
• Photographs, videos and other digital media content that is captured or created at Sweet Studios may be shared on our website or social media platforms or in our newsletter and other promotional materials.
• We only share digital media content that has been captured by one of our staff-members, unless consent is obtained in respect of content collected by somebody else who we know (like a trusted caregiver).
• We will not share any digital media unless all the people featured in it are aware that it was created, and are dressed appropriately in kit that relates to the performing arts activity they were engaging in at the time.
• We will not, under any circumstances, publish or share photographs, videos or other digital media:
o which is inappropriate, illegal or embarrassing for those featured; or
o which includes or contains detailed personal information relating to those featured, unless the photograph or video is taken to celebrate individual success.

You can withdraw your consent
• If you or your child do not wish to be featured in photographs, videos or other digital media content that is taken at Sweet Studios or shared by Sweet Studios, you can withdraw your consent by contacting us at hello@sweetstudios.co.nz, or changing your permissions in your DSP account.
• If content featuring you or your child is published or posted online, and you wish to have that content taken down, you can contact Hannah Rutten at any time at hello@sweetstudios.co.nz.

Sweet Studios Parent & Student Code of Conduct & Expectations

At Sweet Studios, we believe that a strong partnership between parents and our school is key to creating a positive and nurturing environment for all students. As a parent or guardian, your role is essential to our community, and we ask that you support our values and follow our expectations to help maintain a respectful and productive space for our young performers.

1. Respect for All
- Treat everyone with kindness and respect: This includes students, staff, and other parents. We promote a positive and inclusive environment, free of discrimination, harassment, or negative behavior.
- Support the diversity of our community: Embrace the diverse backgrounds, abilities, and talents of all students and their families.

2. Encourage Positive Participation
- Encourage your child’s growth and involvement: Ensure your child attends all classes, rehearsals, and events, and encourage them to give their best effort, be punctual, and remain engaged.
- Support the commitment to learning: Help your child understand the importance of their involvement in the performing arts and the value of hard work and dedication.

3. Communication with Staff
- Maintain open, respectful communication: Reach out to staff with any questions or concerns in a respectful and constructive manner. We encourage you to communicate directly with the appropriate teacher or coordinator regarding your child’s progress.
- Respect boundaries: Teachers and staff are dedicated to providing a safe learning environment for all students. Please respect their time and privacy, particularly during class times, and avoid disrupting lessons.

4. Respect the School’s Policies
- Adhere to school policies: Follow all guidelines related to class schedules, attendance, dress codes, performance requirements, and payment deadlines.
- Punctuality and attendance: Consistent attendance is essential for a student’s development. Notify Sweet Studios in advance if your child will miss a class or rehearsal.

5. Be Supportive During Performances
- Respect performance etiquette: Encourage positive, respectful behavior at performances and events, both backstage and in the audience. Applaud all performers and celebrate the achievements of every student.
- Respect privacy and confidentiality: Refrain from discussing students or performances in a manner that could be considered critical or negative, especially in front of the children. Maintain confidentiality regarding personal matters and feedback shared by staff.

6. Safety First
- Ensure student safety: As a parent or guardian, you must ensure that your child arrives on time for classes and is picked up promptly. Please follow all school guidelines regarding drop-off and pick-up procedures.
- Support a healthy environment: Ensure your child is dressed appropriately for all classes and rehearsals, and is in good health when attending. Notify us immediately if your child has any health concerns or allergies that we should be aware of.

7. Be a Positive Role Model
- Set a positive example: As a member of the Sweet Studios community, your behavior sets the tone for others. Demonstrate integrity, responsibility, and respect for others both on and off the premises.
- Support teamwork: Help foster a sense of community and collaboration among students. Encourage them to build friendships, collaborate with peers, and always practice good sportsmanship.

8. Financial Responsibility
- Pay fees on time: Ensure that all tuition, fees, and other payments are made by the specified deadlines. Prompt payment helps us maintain the quality of our programs and ensure students receive the best possible experience.
- Understand policies: Familiarize yourself with all payment and refund policies and adhere to them accordingly.

9. Volunteering and Support
- Get involved where possible: Volunteering your time and supporting events helps foster a stronger community. Whether assisting with events, fundraising, or simply providing moral support, your involvement makes a difference.
- Support the school’s mission: Help promote Sweet Studios in a positive light, and contribute to the overall success of the school and its students.

By agreeing to this Code of Conduct, parents and guardians agree to uphold these expectations to maintain a positive, safe, and inclusive environment for all students, staff, and families within the Sweet Studios community.

Thank you for your ongoing support of Sweet Studios. Together, we can help our students reach their full potential and foster a lifelong love of the performing arts.