Photo: Ben Tomlin

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Looking after our young singers

At the National Youth Choir we are fully committed to making sure that all our young singers are safe and supported at all times, and there are a number of ways that we do this.

All our staff who come into contact with our young singers, whether permanent or contracted, are checked by the UK Government's Disclosure and Barring Service and adhere to our Safeguarding Policy and Procedures. Course staff are also trained in Child Protection (NSPCC).

Our Head of Safeguarding, Joy Brereton, has particular responsibility for ensuring that young singers’ welfare is paramount. She works closely with Course Directors who have overall responsibility for everything that happens on our courses, and with the Heads of Pastoral Care on each course.

The Head of Pastoral Care and other Senior Pastoral Staff include Teachers, Nurses and Child Care professionals. They are trained to a high standard and have a wealth of experience. Their role is to safeguard and care for the welfare of every young singer, putting their safety and wellbeing before music-making in every circumstance.

Support for the Head of Pastoral Care depends on the numbers and age range of the singers on each course. For Junior and Training Choirs, there are several Senior Pastoral Care staff who have considerable experience on National Youth Choir courses, and a team of Course Assistants. A number of the Course Assistants on 9-15 Years Choir courses are current members of the National Youth Choir, National Youth Chamber Choir, or recent Alumni who bring an understanding of what it's like to be a young person away from home on a challenging, intensive residential course.

Our music staff, including Conductors, Singing Teachers and Section Leaders take equal care to be aware of how each singer is getting along and have an equal responsibility for flagging concerns with Senior Pastoral colleagues if necessary.

At least 2 members of our Pastoral Staff are allocated to each boarding house to ensure the welfare of young people overnight. All Pastoral staff are regularly trained in First Aid and Safe Handling/Administering of Medication.

On courses, members are given the course mobile number for use in emergencies and a direct email link to the Head of Pastoral Care.

To get to know Joy a little, please click here - Joy Brereton | Head of Safeguarding

If you have any safeguarding concerns please email [email protected]