Chaperones

What is a chaperone?

Under current legislation, a chaperone (or matron) must be appointed to look after any child of school age taking part in a public performance.

A chaperone supervises a child who is taking part in performances for the duration of the work. They may be the child's parent, teacher or a person approved by the local authority.

Who can be a chaperone?

Any adult can apply for a chaperone licence and providing a clear criminal records bureau (CRB) disclosure is received a licence will be issued.

Does my child need a chaperone?

If a parent or carer does not accompany a child to a performance or rehearsals, the production company is required to supply a chaperone that is currently licensed by a local authority, usually from the area where the performance takes place.

There must be a minimum of one chaperone to 12 children reflecting the age and sex of the children.

Chaperones are required to ensure the health, comfort, kind treatment and moral welfare of children in their care.

How do I become a chaperone?

Chaperone licences are obtained from the local authority. A disclosure check from the Criminal records Bureau (CRB) is required. The local authority will carry out the check but the cost for this, must be met by the applicant.

For further information please contact:

Education Welfare Service
Tel: (01482) 392146
E-mail: education.welfare@eastriding.gov.uk

or alternatively, you can complete one of the following chaperone licence application forms and either email (MS Word version) or post back (either version).

Chaperone Licence Application Form (pdf 162kb opens in new window)

Chaperone Licence Application Form (word 152kb opens in new window)

How long does a chaperone licence last for? 

Chaperone licences last for three years, or for as long as a current DBS certificate is valid for. After which, a renewal is required.

Renewing a chaperone licence

All renewals are treated as new applications (see links for downloadable application forms above) and it is your responsibility to check your licence is still valid.

Is there any guidance available for chaperones?

We have provided chaperones with guidance in the following document available to download:

Guidance for Chaperones (pdf 104kb opens in new window)

Chaperones - Safeguarding Guidance (pdf 376kb opens in new window)