1. Why this policy matters

The welfare and safety of every child in our care comes first. Phones, cameras and smart devices can be a distraction and, in the wrong hands, a safeguarding risk. This policy sets out how they may be used at TARKA, and should be read alongside our Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy.

2. Instructors’ phones

  • Only the lead instructor may have their phone with them during a session. They may use it only to control the music, contact the parent of a child in the session, communicate with the TARKA office team, or make a call in an emergency or medical situation.
  • Support instructors keep their phones stored away from the activity area throughout the session. Any instructor may use their phone in an emergency.
  • The lead instructor keeps their phone switched on for these reasons only, and does not use it for personal calls, messages or social media while children are in their care.
  • No instructor may take photographs or videos in toilets or changing areas.

3. Smart watches

Instructors may wear smart watches, but must not use them for personal use during a session.

4. Content on personal devices

  • Anyone bringing a personal device to a TARKA session must make sure it has no inappropriate or illegal content on it.
  • Every instructor must report any concern about how a phone or device is being used to the DSL.
  • If there is cause for concern, the TARKA management team may ask to check the images on an instructor’s phone.
  • If inappropriate or illegal images are found, the DSL will contact the LADO and the police straight away, and our disciplinary procedures will be followed.

5. Photographs for TARKA

  • Instructors may take photographs and videos for TARKA’s social media and marketing.
  • We only use images of children whose parents have given permission on the booking form. Any child without permission is not included in images we publish.
  • We never publish a child’s full name alongside their image.

6. Parents and visitors

Parents and visitors may take photographs or videos of their own child during sessions. We ask that no other children appear in them, and that images of other people’s children are never shared online.

Next update: September 2027