Safeguarding and Code of Conduct for Tunes for Tots Ltd
Tunes for Tots sessions will follow all safeguarding procedures of the institution when visiting schools and nurseries.
This document has been produced by Tunes for Tots Ltd in line with Musician’s Union guidance and advice.
All Tunes for Tots team members are required to read this document in full and keep their safeguarding certification up to date, as organised by Tunes for Tots Ltd.
This Code of Conduct outlines the expected behaviours of Tunes for Tots staff working with babies, toddlers, and young children in group music sessions delivered in nurseries, schools, and early years settings. It also applies to team members working with vulnerable children in any other capacity.
This Code is designed to ensure the safety and wellbeing of every child involved in a Tunes for Tots session. It aims to prevent risk, provide guidance if a concern arises, and clarify safeguarding responsibilities.
Key Behaviours
All Tunes for Tots staff should:
Commit to creating a safe, nurturing, and inclusive space for all children. Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility.
Be warm and engaging while maintaining professional boundaries at all times.
Never use inappropriate language, and never share personal details or befriend families or children online.
Never be under the influence of alcohol or drugs during a session.
Follow the MU Music Sector Code of Conduct to prevent bullying, harassment, or discrimination of any kind.
Be familiar with the Tunes for Tots safeguarding policy and procedures.
Recognise the signs of emotional, physical, sexual abuse and neglect, and act on any concerns.
Understand that abuse can happen to or be caused by individuals of any background.
Be aware of grooming behaviours and avoid any conduct that could be misinterpreted.
Report any safeguarding concerns or disclosures immediately to the appropriate authority.
Keep any notes or information about children secure and confidential, retaining them only as long as necessary.
Obtain written permission before taking or using any photos or videos of children, and store them securely.
Maintain a current Enhanced DBS check, and sign up to the online DBS Update Service if based in England or Wales (or equivalent service in Scotland/Northern Ireland).
Communication with Families and Settings
Tunes for Tots session leaders should:
Communicate directly with nursery or school staff regarding sessions. Communication with parents or guardians should be managed by the nursery or school, not by session leaders.
Never contact children directly.
Avoid any communication via social media with children or families.
Ensure that any necessary information is passed through the setting's designated contact or through Tunes for Tots administration, if appropriate.
Keep personal social media profiles private and restrict visibility from families.
Never share personal phone numbers or private contact details with families unless specifically authorised to do so by Tunes for Tots Ltd.
Delivering In-Person Sessions
Tunes for Tots team members should:
Dress appropriately and professionally for working with very young children.
Use gentle, child-appropriate language and maintain a calm, kind tone.
Respect children's personal space. Avoid unnecessary physical contact.
If physical interaction is needed (e.g., for guiding movement), explain clearly to the supervising adult and ask permission where appropriate.
Conduct sessions in open spaces where visibility is ensured. Rooms with windows or open doors are preferred.
Never be left alone with a child; ensure a responsible adult from the setting is always present.
Match the child’s eye level when possible to build comfort and connection.
Avoid any language or humour that could be misunderstood or deemed inappropriate.
Reporting Concerns for Babies and Toddlers
Babies and toddlers are not able to explain harm or distress in words. Therefore, Tunes for Tots session leaders must remain highly observant and responsive to non-verbal signs of potential safeguarding concerns.
Tunes for Tots staff must:
Be alert to signs of distress, fear, or discomfort in a child, especially sudden changes in behaviour during or after a session.
Look out for visible marks or injuries that are unusual or unexplained.
Observe interactions between the child and adults (including staff, other adults, and carers) and note any behaviour that seems inappropriate or raises concern.
Notice if a child seems withdrawn, overly anxious, or reluctant to engage with adults or peers.
Report any behaviour or observations that raise concern, even if there is no clear explanation or verbal disclosure.
What to do if you are concerned:
Immediately share your concern with the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) at the nursery or school where the session is taking place.
Provide a factual description of what you saw or observed – avoid speculation or assumptions.
Where appropriate, complete a written note of concern, using the nursery or school’s safeguarding reporting system.
Never attempt to investigate the concern yourself or speak to the child’s parent/carer directly.
Follow up with the DSL if needed, to confirm that your concern has been acknowledged.
Important: Always adhere to the safeguarding policy of the nursery, school, or early years setting where you are delivering sessions. If you are unsure of the procedure or who the DSL is, ask a staff member at the setting before beginning your session.
Photos and Videos
Tunes for Tots team members must:
Avoid showing children’s faces in any photos or videos unless written parental/guardian consent has been obtained.
Never take photos or videos without prior approval from the setting’s DSL and all relevant consent.
Never share any images on personal social media.
Obtain permission before using any photo/video for promotional purposes, even if already taken with general consent.
Required Certification for All Tunes for Tots Team Members
Before starting any sessions in schools or nurseries, all Tunes for Tots team members must complete:
Enhanced DBS Check