Last reviewed: 1/10/2025

Next review: 1/10/2028 or sooner if required

1. Purpose and Commitment

The Jardin Musical Trust is committed to ensuring the safety, wellbeing, and participation of all children and young people involved in our programmes. We believe that music education should be inspiring, inclusive, and delivered in an environment that is physically, emotionally, and culturally safe. We uphold the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi, recognising the importance of Māori culture and perspectives in all aspects of our work.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all staff, tutors, contractors, volunteers, board members, and anyone engaged by the Jardin Musical Trust who interacts with or has responsibility for children and young people (under 18 years).

3. Legal Framework

This policy complies with:
– Children’s Act 2014
– Health and Safety at Work Act 2015
– Privacy Act 2020
– Oranga Tamariki and NZ Police Child Protection Guidelines

4. Definitions

• Child / Young Person: Anyone under 18 years of age.
• Abuse: Physical, emotional, sexual, or neglectful behaviour that harms a child’s wellbeing.

5. Roles and Responsibilities

• Designated Child Protection Officer (DCPO):Edith Salzmann
Responsible for receiving and managing concerns about child safety.
• All staff and volunteers must read and agree to this policy before starting work.

6. Safe Recruitment and Vetting

• All staff and volunteers working with children will complete a Children’s Worker Safety Check (per the Children’s Act 2014).
• Referees and police vetting will be obtained before engagement.
• Volunteers receive induction and supervision appropriate to their role.

7. Behavioural Expectations / Code of Conduct

All adults working with young people must:
• Treat all participants with respect and fairness.
• Maintain appropriate professional boundaries (no private social media contact, texting, or transport without prior approval).
• Avoid situations where they are alone with a student.
• Never engage in physical punishment, ridicule, or favouritism.
• Use inclusive language and uphold cultural safety for all tamariki and rangatahi.

8. Transport and Excursions

• All transport of students must be approved in advance by the Festival Director or authorised delegate.
• Drivers must hold a current full driver licence and be vetted under this policy.
• Two adults should be present whenever possible during transport.
• Parental/guardian consent is required for all off-site activities.

9. Identifying and Responding to Concerns

• Any concern or disclosure of abuse or neglect must be taken seriously and reported immediately to the DCPO.
• If a child is in immediate danger, contact Police (111) or Oranga Tamariki (0508 326 459).
• Records of all concerns must be kept confidentially and securely.

10. Training and Awareness

• All staff and volunteers will receive training on child protection, appropriate conduct, and reporting obligations at induction.
• Annual refreshers will be provided before each festival or educational program.

11. Cultural Safety

• The Festival acknowledges and respects Māori values, tikanga, and language.
• Where appropriate, engagement with local mana whenua will guide cultural protocols and ensure inclusion of Māori perspectives in programme delivery.

12. Review and Communication

• This policy will be reviewed every three years or earlier if required by law or organisational change.
• It will be available to staff, volunteers, participants, and the public via our website or on request.