Transparency and accountability are extremely important to us!

Clear and consistent communication of our policies helps to ensure that student experiences at The Conservatory are safe and enjoyable.  Please read through our policies, and if you have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact us.  Thank you in advance for your assistance and cooperation! 

 

PICK UP AND DROP-OFF POLICY:

Please enter through the side doors at 237 Wellington Street — this is the direct access to The BOX theatre, where classes are held.  The doors have a key code; to gain access, simply ring the doorbell and a Conservatory Staff member will open the door for you.  Please attempt to be at The Conservatory 10-15 minutes prior to class to avoid disruptions to classes in progress.  For safety reasons, parents/caregivers will be required to come into The BOX to pick up students, so that they are not leaving the building unaccompanied.

 

LATE POLICY:

Please notify us if you expect to arrive late to class.  Late arrivals should wait at the edge of the studio until the exercise in progress has been completed, and the instructor gives permission to join class.  For safety reasons, any student arriving more than 20 minutes late will be asked to observe class.  For your safety, and to receive full benefit from your class, please arrange for a make-up class if you expect to be more than 20 minutes late.  

 

CLASSROOM ATTIRE:

For safety reasons, we request that students respectfully observe the dress code outlined on our website, under Class Attire.  We provide attire options that allow each student to move comfortably, and honour their gender, racial and religious expression/identification needs.  Students in unsafe attire will be asked to observe class.

 

CLASSROOM PREPARATION:

Students are encouraged to use washrooms prior to class, and bring all classroom materials (such as dancewear, shoes and water bottles) into class with them.  Students are encouraged not to leave the room once class has begun.  Very young children will be treated sensitively as the need arises. Preschool children may need a parent’s attention from time to time for various reasons, including bathroom or behavioural issues. Please do not leave the waiting room when very young children are in class, without informing the instructor or having another parent responsible during your absence.  

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ALLERGEN POLICY:

The Conservatory cannot guarantee an environment free of major allergens (ground nuts, tree nuts, dairy, eggs, wheat, soy, shellfish, etc.).  Dancers with serious allergies are required to notify staff prior to class and to carry Epi-Pens and other necessary medical equipment/prescriptions with them at all times, to be used in the event of an allergic reaction.

 

MEDICAL, DEVELOPMENTAL, PHYSICAL AND SOCIOEMOTIONAL NEEDS:

The Conservatory strives to be inclusive and supportive of learning differences.  Please note any specific factors that may influence a student’s learning needs, classroom adjustment or accommodation needs on their student registration form.  Staff welcome input from parents, support workers, aides and caregivers to facilitate and safe and supportive learning environment for dancers.

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LEARNING ENVIRONMENT:

We make every effort to have all students feel safe and cared for in a loving and inspiring learning environment; friends and families are welcome to watch class as spectators, but please respect the need for lack of distraction in the learning environment.

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We expect Conservatory members to practice respect for themselves, fellow students and our facilities at all times.  Harm to self or others (physical, verbal, social, emotional) and harm to property (flooring, barres, props, washrooms, sound equipment, lighting, etc.) will not be tolerated.  Conservatory members understand that sharing dance together is a privilege that we must value and protect. Should a member of the Conservatory inflict damage of any kind, restitution will be required to return to class.  We practice the value of "no harm."

 

DANCE ETIQUETTE:

We ask all dancers to please practice courtesy and dance etiquette.  Please help to create a positive learning environment for everyone, by listening, focusing and working as a team. Please respect your teacher and fellow students by giving your full attention and co-operation.  Parents will be advised if we feel that any student is not well adjusted to the classroom environment for any reason over time.  We expect Conservatory families to uphold our core values of integrity and inclusion at all times.

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ABSENCE, ILLNESS AND INJURY:

Please notify The Conservatory if you anticipate that your student will be absent from class.  During class, if a student complains of being ill, or sustains an injury and cannot participate, First Aid will be administered (if required) and the instructor will ask the student to observe.  Parents will be notified of student injury or illness if they are not on the premises.   Students with pre-existing illness or injuries will require an absence of symptoms and/or medical clearance to participate in class.  For safety reasons, pointe students who miss more than 3 consecutive classes due to absence, illness or injury will be required to take class in soft shoes until they have medical clearance and/or can pass a pointe assessment by instructors.

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CLASS OBSERVATION AND MEDIA CONSENT:

Classes may be observed with the permission of the instructor.  For safety and liability reasons, parents and guests may not take film, video or photos of any classroom activities.  Photos/film/video of your dancer (only) may be arranged with the instructor prior to class.

 

TERM SCHEDULE:

For ease of planning, The Conservatory generally adheres to the schedule of local school boards.  No classes with be held during statutory holidays or school vacation breaks.  Classes will run through Saturday the week prior to the December/January Break and March Break.  Regularly scheduled classes will take place on all P.A. days.

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CLASS CANCELLATION:  In the event of inclement weather or conditions that prevent access to, or safe usage of, facilities; we will strive to notify families by 12:00 p.m. on weekdays, and by 10:00 p.m. the Friday prior to Saturday classes. Cancelled classes may take place on Zoom in lieu; dancers will be notified.  Missed classes will not be refunded, but students are welcome to take a make-up class at the appropriate level. Please also note that in Term II students have the opportunity to make up substantial class hours during Rehearsal Week.

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PERFORMANCE PARTICIPATION:

Participation in all Conservatory performances and events is voluntary.  Please notify Conservatory staff at least 3 weeks in advance if a student is unable to participate in a performance or event, to ensure that we have adequate notice to make necessary changes to choreography or cancel events.  Students must attend a minimum of 2/3 of all classes and rehearsals each term, as well as be able to demonstrate adequate knowledge and safe execution of choreography to participate in public performances.