The application for a Performance Licence must be completed by the person responsible for the production prior to it taking place. Please can applications be submitted 21 days prior to the day on which the first performance or activity is due to take place.
The Licence, when issued, must be held at the performance venue in case of an inspection.
To apply for a Performance Licence, you will need:
You will need a medical certificate, valid for 6 months from date of issue, if a child is taking part in a:
An Exemption may apply when all the following conditions apply:
Exemptions do not currently require Licensed Chaperones, but we would expect the adults used as chaperones to be enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checked.
If all the children in the production meet these criteria, please complete the exemption form and email to us, along with a copy of your child safeguarding policy and your risk assessment.
A BOPA allows groups and organisations to have one Licence for all the children involved in a performance. It can be applied for if the performance would usually fall under the child performance regulations, providing that the children taking part will not miss any school for performances or rehearsals and will not be paid.
The decision whether to issue a BOPA is at the discretion of the Local Authority. A BOPA will only be issued if the Local Authority is satisfied that the group has adequate Licenced Chaperones and rigorous safeguarding policies and practices in place.
It is the responsibility of the organiser to apply for a BOPA from the Local Authority where the performance is due to take place. Once issued, it is the organisers responsibility to ensure that any Local Authorities where the children live know of the performance and receive a copy of the BOPA.
A BOPA does not authorise absence from school for any children involved in the performances.
Before submitting an application for a BOPA please check your eligibility:
To apply for a BOPA please complete all three BOPA forms below and email to us, along with a copy of your child safeguarding policy and your risk assessment.
Body of persons application form
Body of persons group participants form
We aim to process any applications within 21 days. Please allow extra time during busy periods.
If a child is performing abroad, a Licence cannot be granted by the Local Authority. An application for a Licence must be made to the Magistrate’s Court where the child lives.
All children engaged in public performances, filming, TV work, modelling or paid sporting activities under a Performance Licence must legally be supervised by a Licensed Chaperone or by their parent.
Find out more about chaperone licences.
Read our Child performance licensing policy
