Children can attend a public performance, paid work, or sporting activities with a chaperone, if a parent, legal guardian, or teacher is unavailable.
Chaperones must have a licence issued by their local authority as a legal requirement.
It is advised that applicants apply for a Chaperone License or renewal at least two to three months in advance.
What is a chaperone?
A chaperone is responsible for safeguarding, supporting and promoting the wellbeing of the child. This can include ensuring they are provided with food and refreshments, rest and recreation and that there are separate changing rooms for boys and girls over the age of five.
Chaperones must remain with the child at all times and have sight of the child when they are on stage, set or performing. However, their main duties are to ensure that the child/children are properly supervised when not performing and have adequate meals, rest and recreation.
A chaperone can supervise up to 12 children.
A licence is valid for three years from the date of the DBS check. Your details will be added to our chaperone database, and you will be provided with a badge.
How do I apply for a Chaperone Licence?
- Complete the Chaperone Application Form (opens in new tab) and pay the relevant fees. If you are acting on a voluntary basis you will need to pay for an enhanced DBS check (Volunteer) (opens in new tab) . If you are acting in a professional capacity, you will need to pay for an enhanced DBS check (Professional) (opens in new tab). Please return completed applications to the Education Welfare Service.
- An Enhanced Disclosure Barring Service (DBS) link will be sent to applicants for completion online and an appointment will be arranged with a council officer to verify identification documents. Please contact us if you are already signed up to the Government update service.
- Reference checks will be undertaken with two nominated referees as stipulated on the application form. We do not accept references from family and friends, or people known solely to the applicant through the organisation for which they wish to become a chaperone.
- As part of the application process, you will be required to complete the NSPCC's mandatory Chaperone Training course. To book and pay for the course, please visit the NSPCC website (opens in new tab).
- Once you have successfully completed the training, please provide us with a copy of your certificate or other proof of completion for our records.
- Following the course, you will be invited to a Chaperone Interview with a Local Authority officer.
- You will be required to provide a passport-sized photograph for an ID badge to be issued.
More information
There is more information in the Torfaen Chaperone Guide (opens in new tab).
For information about applying for an enhanced DBS check, visit www.gov.uk (opens in new tab).
Information can also be found on the National Network for Child Employment and Entertainment (opens in new tab) website.
If you have any questions, please contact the Education Welfare Service.