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Parent Policy & Handbook

(Updated JAN 2026)
#livelovedance

Welcome to
LITHGOW ACADEMY OF DANCE

Lithgow Academy of Dance is committed to providing a professional, supportive, and safe dance education environment. Our programs are designed to build confidence, discipline, creativity, and strong values both inside and outside the studio.

We believe that the most successful outcomes occur when students, parents/guardians, and staff work together respectfully. This Handbook supports our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy and outlines expectations for all families enrolled with Lithgow Academy of Dance ("the Studio").

By enrolling your child, you agree to comply with this Handbook, the Terms & Conditions, and the Privacy Policy. In the event of inconsistency, the Terms & Conditions take precedence.

A letter to
our dancers

Dance is a powerful art form that allows expression, discipline, and personal growth. Each time you enter the studio, you are committing to learning, effort, and respect.

Your teachers are here to guide and support you. Corrections are given with care and intention to help you improve. A positive attitude, preparedness, and respect for others will help you grow not only as a dancer, but as a person.

We believe every dancer can achieve their personal best when they show commitment, resilience, and kindness.

Studio Housekeeping

Drop Off & Pick Up

  • Students must be accompanied into and out of the studio by a responsible adult unless otherwise approved.
  • Parents/guardians must ensure safe parking and road crossing at all times.
  • Students should arrive 5–10 minutes prior to class start time.
  • Children who are not fully toilet trained require a parent to remain on-site.
  • Lithgow Academy of Dance does not provide supervision outside of class times.

Inside the Studio

  • Bags must remain in designated areas and not obstruct walkways.
  • No bags are permitted inside studios.
  • Valuables are brought at the owner’s risk.
  • Phones must be switched off or on silent and are not to be used unless directed by a teacher.
  • Quiet behaviour is expected in foyer and waiting areas.

Personal Property

  • Lithgow Academy of Dance is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged personal property.

Attendance & Injuries

Attendance

  • Regular attendance is expected for all classes, rehearsals, and events.

  • Absences due to illness must be reported via SMS to 0402 694 541.

  • No refunds or credits are provided for missed classes.

Injuries

  • Injuries must be reported immediately to the Head Teacher.

  • Students with injuries are expected to observe classes unless medically advised otherwise.

  • Medical clearance may be required before returning to full participation.

  • Parents/guardians are responsible for all medical and ambulance costs.

Communication & Parent Responsibility 

Clear communication is essential to the operation of the Studio.

  • Official communication channels include email, SMS, phone calls, and Band announcements.
  • Parents/guardians are responsible for ensuring contact details remain current.
  • Parents/guardians must regularly check all communication channels, including spam/junk folders.
  • Failure to read or receive communication does not exempt families from deadlines, fees, or obligations.

Staff Contact Boundaries

  • Teachers must not be contacted via personal phone numbers or social media.

  • All communication must go through Studio administration.

Studio Calendar & Events

  • Dates for terms, showcases, rehearsals, and events are published via official Studio channels.
  • Dates may be subject to change.
  • Participation in showcases and events is subject to additional fees and requirements outlined in the Terms & Conditions.

STUDIO CALENDAR 🗓️

Enrolment, Fees & Payments

  • Enrolment is annual unless otherwise stated.
  • Fees are charged per term and are non-refundable.
  • Invoices must be paid by the due date.
  • Late fees apply to overdue accounts.
  • The Studio reserves the right to suspend or cancel enrolment for unpaid fees.

Payment methods and plans are outlined in full within the Terms & Conditions.

Withdrawal of Enrolment

  • A minimum of 4 weeks written notice is required to withdraw from the following term.

  • Fees remain payable until notice is received.

  • Outstanding balances may be referred to debt recovery.

Uniforms & Grooming

  • Students must wear the correct uniform and footwear for each class.

  • Hair must be neat and secured.

  • Uniform orders must be paid in full prior to ordering.

UNIFORM GUIDE 🩰

Safety, Behaviour & Child Protection

  • Lithgow Academy of Dance maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward bullying, harassment, or abusive behaviour.

  • Respectful conduct is expected from students and parents at all times.

  • Teachers may use appropriate physical contact for instruction, spotting, or first aid.

  • All staff hold valid Working With Children Checks

VIEW CHILD PROCTECTION POLICY 📖

Social Media & Photography

  • Photography or filming of classes is prohibited unless authorised.

  • Content involving other students may not be shared without consent.

  • Negative or defamatory social media activity relating to the Studio may result in termination of enrolment.

Privacy & Personal Information

Lithgow Academy of Dance collects and manages personal information in accordance with its Privacy Policy and the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth).

  • Information is used for enrolment, communication, safety, and administration.
  • Personal information will not be shared except where required by law or necessary for service delivery.

Please refer to the full Privacy Policy on our website.

Copyright & Intellectual Property

  • All choreography, routines, and custom costumes are the intellectual property of Lithgow Academy of Dance.

  • Use outside of Studio-approved events is prohibited without written consent.

Codes of Conduct

Teachers

Lithgow Academy of Dance adheres to Ausdance National’s Code of Ethics for Dance Teachers.

Parents

Parents are expected to:

  • Support their child positively
  • Respect teachers, staff, and other families
  • Raise concerns through appropriate channels

Students

Students are expected to:

  • Arrive on time and prepared

  • Show respect at all times

  • Maintain a positive attitude

Policy Updates

Lithgow Academy of Dance reserves the right to update this Handbook at any time. The most current version will be available on our website. Continued enrolment constitutes acceptance of updated policies.