Staff & Voulunteer Code of Conduct

Art is for Everyone

Staff and Volunteer Code of Conduct

Introduction

Art S’Cool is committed to providing a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment where all participants can learn, work, and develop through creative practice.

All staff and volunteers play an essential role in maintaining this environment and are expected to follow the guidelines outlined below.

1. Professionalism and Conduct

All staff and volunteers are expected to:

Treat participants, colleagues, and visitors with dignity, kindness, and respect at all times.
Arrive on time, prepared, and ready to deliver sessions effectively.
Promote an inclusive and welcoming environment where all participants feel supported.
Maintain appropriate professional relationships with participants at all times.
Avoid unnecessary physical contact and ensure boundaries are clear and appropriate.
Manage disagreements respectfully and report any serious concerns to the Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO).
Follow safeguarding procedures if a child makes a disclosure or if there are concerns about their welfare.

2. Safeguarding and Protecting Participants

To ensure the safety and wellbeing of all children:

Staff and volunteers must not be alone with a participant in a non-visible or private space.
Professional boundaries must be maintained at all times.
Personal social media should not be used to communicate with participants.
All safeguarding concerns, disclosures, or allegations must be reported promptly in line with the Safeguarding Policy.

3. Health and Safety in the Studio

Staff and volunteers are responsible for maintaining a safe working environment by:

Ensuring all tools, materials, and equipment are appropriate and used correctly.
Supervising activities carefully to promote safe practice.
Storing and disposing of materials appropriately.
Maintaining a clean and organised workspace.
Being familiar with emergency procedures, fire exits, and first aid arrangements.
Following Hazard Guidance.

4. Communication and Confidentiality

Staff and volunteers are expected to:

Provide clear, supportive, and age-appropriate feedback.
Support participants in a positive and encouraging way.
Respect the privacy and confidentiality of all participants.
Not share personal information, images, or recordings without appropriate consent.

5. Professional Boundaries and Prohibited Behaviour

The following behaviours are not acceptable:

Any form of verbal, physical, or emotional abuse.
Discriminatory, inappropriate, or offensive language or actions.
Smoking, vaping, or the use of illegal substances on or near the premises.
Forming personal or inappropriate relationships with participants outside of a professional context.

6. Behaviour and Expectations

All staff and volunteers must:

Act as positive role models at all times.
Follow all policies, including Safeguarding and Health and Safety.
Take responsibility for maintaining a safe and respectful environment.
Respond appropriately to behaviour concerns.

7. Disciplinary Procedure

Breaches of this Code of Conduct may result in:

A verbal or written warning.
Temporary suspension from duties.

In cases of serious or repeated breaches:

Permanent termination of role may be applied.
No further engagement with Art S’Cool will be permitted.
Any incident that may constitute a criminal offence may be reported to the police.