Sim School of Highland Dance

CODE OF CONDUCT

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Professionals, dancers and dance families are expected to follow our Code of Conduct. Professionals, dancers and dance families who fail to follow our Code of Ethics reflect poorly on our Studio, and on the Highland Dance Community. Failure to follow our Code of Conduct may result in disciplinary action, up to and including removal from the dance studio. Members and dancers registered with ScotDance Canada and SDTA are also expected to adhere to their standard Code of Conduct, as published on their respective websites. If required, issues can be escalated to one or both of these bodies, and may result in suspension.

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If at any time, you have concerns about the conduct of anyone in the dance school, it can be raised directly with Sherry Sim, or with a member of the Parent’s Association, for discussion and to determine an appropriate course of action. 

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Professionals

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Dance Professionals are expected to exhibit ethical and professional behaviour, and provide dancers and their families with a frame of reference for judgement in complex situations. Dance Professionals are also expected to conduct oneself in a manner that reflects honesty, integrity and dignity of character and spirit; and, respecting the rights, interests, and welfare of those affected by a decision.

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The following guidelines are also expected to be adhered to.

• Strive to create and maintain cooperative relationships with professional and coaching colleagues for the purpose of ensuring a positive environment.

• Communicate and create awareness with those who need to be informed of the ethical responsibilities established in our Code of Conduct.

• Develop an appropriate working relationship with dancers and other professionals based on mutual trust and respect.

• Actively participate in the development and/or maintenance of current and applicable highland dance standards through practice, education, and current certification.

• Adhere to the principles set out in the Canadian Human Rights Act, and as such does not discriminate based on the prohibited grounds as stated in the Act, including but not limited to, age, race, gender orientation, ethnicity, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, or disability.

• Maintain any personal records created during my professional interactions in a manner that promotes confidentiality and privacy, in compliance with applicable laws.

 

Professionals will do their best to remain alert to indications that there might be a shift in the value received from the coaching relationship. If so, make a change in the relationship or encourage the dancer to seek another coach, professional or alternate resources.

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Dancers

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Key Elements of Ethical Conduct

• Support the other competitors and promote the concept of everyone doing their best. Competition is all about achieving a personal best performance.

• Always promote a positive attitude.

• Be respectful towards those involved in Highland Dancing, including judges, coaches, event organizers, and fellow dancers.

• You are responsible for your performance. Take personal responsibility for your results and integrity. Concentrate and focus on your goals.

• Don’t hinder fellow dancers in their preparation.

• Never direct or employ abusive, offensive or demeaning tactics with those involved in Highland dancing

• Never jeopardize the privacy of your fellow competitors.

• Always act in fairness and integrity in your pursuit of excellence.

• Never discuss your disappointments and displeasure in open or online forums. If you have concerns about your performance, follow up with your dance teacher/coach on what can be improved and work towards those goals which are set out for you.

 

Dancer’s Support Network

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Key Elements of Ethical Conduct:

• You are your child’s role model - Be a positive one. Ethical sportsman-like behaviour starts with you. Set a high standard of sportsmanship.

• Don’t discuss your issues with the professionals in front of your dancers or other competitors. Ask for an appointment to discuss your concerns in private. There is a proper time and place for these discussions.

• Support the decisions of the professionals, which include teachers and judges, as well as the organizers of the event. Show due respect at all times.

• Show proper decorum at all dancing events regardless of the outcome of the event. Be gracious and accept that some opinions may differ from yours.

• Show respect for all competitors. Intimidation tactics aimed at other dancers or their support network will not be tolerated.

• Place the emotional and physical well-being of the dancer ahead of a personal desire to win.

• If you see something, say something