Children,Young People and Work Experience
Performance Licenses

BBC Rights group will advise on all aspects of child licensing. In brief, where a child is engaged to take part in a performance they must usually* be licensed by the local education authority (including if the participation is to be at weekends, during school holidays and after school hours). Children are not to be required to work beyond their local authority licence agreement. The schedule must also include adequate rest breaks.

The Regulations and licenses include specific restraints on safety issues that may affect the child. The conditions will include rest, education and recreation periods that must be taken throughout the day. The number of days and hours a child or children will be required for a production, which includes rehearsals, has to be calculated in advance in order for licenses to be granted.

Particular licences are needed outside the UK and Irish Republic. BBC Rights group is able to provide advice and apply on behalf of the production. Be aware the process takes time. The licence will need to be signed by parent or guardian and supporting documentation has to be supplied.

One of the conditions for the performance licence is the engagement of approved chaperones. The chaperone or matron will ensure that the licence is adhered to and will responsible for the child's behaviour.

A visiting officer authorised by the Local Authority may visit to check the production and the work of a licensed chaperone.

For further information see the relevant section on BBC Rights group site.